If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and downright delicious side dish, the Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe is here to become your new favorite. This recipe combines tender squash with savory melted cheddar cheese, a crispy Ritz cracker topping, and a creamy mushroom soup base that all come together baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that balances freshness with indulgence, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a dish that feels both hearty and homey. Once you try this, you’ll understand why it’s called the ultimate!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a unique role. From fresh squash providing vibrant color and moisture, to cheddar cheese adding rich creaminess and sharpness, every component is essential in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
- 1½ pounds fresh squash (sliced): The star ingredient, bringing tender texture and a mild sweetness.
- ½ green bell pepper (chopped): Adds a subtle crunch and fresh, slightly grassy flavor.
- ½ sweet onion (chopped): Provides natural sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Used to sauté the veggies, enriching their flavors and softening textures.
- 1 tsp salt: Brings all the flavors together and enhances natural tastes.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle spiciness that complements the creaminess.
- 2 eggs: Act as a binder, giving the casserole its perfect custardy hold.
- 4 tsp chicken base or chicken bouillon: Imparts a savory, umami kick for that comforting, home-cooked feel.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds luscious creaminess and earthiness.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of flavorful goodness.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted): Mixed with cracker crumbs to create a golden, crispy topping.
- 20 to 30 Ritz crackers (crushed): Every bite’s satisfying crunch and buttery taste finish the casserole beautifully.
How to Make Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Vegetables
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out cleanly after baking. Then, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced squash, chopped green bell pepper, sweet onion, salt, and pepper. Sauté everything gently until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. This step opens up the layers of flavor that will form the heart of your casserole.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, chicken base or bouillon, and the can of unsalted cream of mushroom soup. This creamy mixture is what binds the casserole and gives it that luscious texture. Then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and melted butter to infuse richness and mouthwatering flavor throughout the dish.
Step 3: Mix in Cooked Vegetables and Assemble
Carefully fold your sautéed vegetable mixture into the creamy egg and soup blend. Be sure everything is well combined so every bite bursts with those wonderful layers of flavor. Pour the entire mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Finally, sprinkle generously with crushed Ritz crackers that have been mixed with melted butter—this topping’s buttery crunch is what makes this casserole truly unforgettable.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and the casserole is bubbling gently around the edges. Letting it cool briefly helps everything to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh note and some color contrast, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light dusting of paprika can also bring a lovely aroma and mild smoky warmth. These simple touches enhance the presentation and elevate the overall experience with bright, herby flavors.
Side Dishes
The Ultimate Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. It’s wonderful alongside roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled pork chops. For a lighter meal, pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans. Its cheesy, creamy texture also complements dishes with stronger flavors, balancing your plate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
You can transform this comforting casserole into an impressive potluck dish by baking it in a decorative casserole dish or individual ramekins for single servings. Top each portion separately with additional cheese or cracker crumbs for extra crunch. Another fun idea is layering the casserole with thin slices of tomato before baking for a vibrant, fresh twist that adds moisture and acidity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because this casserole disappears quickly), simply cover the dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually meld beautifully, making for an even more delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes remarkably well. Cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When thawed in the fridge overnight, it will retain its texture and flavor, ready to be reheated and enjoyed whenever you crave a comforting taste of home.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the topping crisps back up slightly. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating can refresh that melty, gooey feel that makes this casserole so inviting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
While fresh squash offers the best texture and flavor for the Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe, you can use frozen squash if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture making the casserole watery.
What can I substitute for the Ritz cracker topping?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers on hand, crushed breadcrumbs or crushed savory cornflakes also work nicely as a crunchy topping with the melted butter binding them. It’s all about that irresistible golden crust.
Is this casserole vegetarian?
This recipe uses chicken bouillon or base which adds a meaty richness, but you can swap it for a vegetable bouillon or omit it completely to make a delicious vegetarian version without losing the hearty flavors.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
To make the Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe dairy-free, try using dairy-free butter and cheese substitutes, and a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still comforting and tasty.
How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, leftover Ultimate Squash Casserole can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Try to reheat it within that time for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about the Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe that just feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender vegetables and a crispy buttery topping makes it a standout dish you’ll return to again and again. I truly hope you take the time to make this recipe and share it with loved ones — it’s a wonderful way to bring a little extra joy to any meal.
Print
Ultimate Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ultimate Squash Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish featuring tender sautéed squash, bell pepper, and onions combined with creamy mushroom soup and cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect as a hearty side or a vegetarian main, it bakes to golden perfection in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1½ pounds fresh squash, sliced
- ½ green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ sweet onion, chopped
Dairy & Eggs
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 eggs
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup butter, melted
Pantry
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 tsp chicken base or chicken bouillon
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of mushroom soup
- 20 to 30 Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside for later use.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced squash, chopped green bell pepper, chopped sweet onion, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and tender. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, chicken base or bouillon, unsalted cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients. Then fold in the cooked vegetables until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top to create a crispy, buttery crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken base with chicken bouillon cubes or powder according to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, use a vegetarian mushroom soup and omit chicken base.
- Crush crackers finely for a crispier topping or coarsely for more texture.
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables during sautéing; they will continue cooking in the oven.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
