Name: Southern Squash Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons butter; 3 pounds yellow squash (sliced 1/4 inch thick); 1 medium yellow onion (diced); 1 teaspoon salt (divided); 2 large eggs (beaten); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed); 3 Tablespoons melted butter

By: Jill Mills Updated: Sep 15, 2025

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Sauteed yellow squash are tossed with a creamy, cheese mixture and topped with buttery cracker crumbs in this Southern Squash Casserole. It’s an easy, cozy, and cheesy side dish for any occasion.

Close up of a plate of Southern squash casserole

This squash casserole recipe is another Southern classic that my family can’t get enough of. They love it almost as much as fried okra! This is a creamy and cheesy side dish with ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Yum!

Why This Is Our Favorite Squash Casserole Recipe

Creamy & cheesy. The squash are tossed with a mixture of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and mayo in this recipe. It adds a creamy, cheesy element without being too heavy.
Great way to use summer squash. While yellow squash isn’t usually as plentiful as zucchini, there’s still usually more than enough to go around in late summer. This recipe is one of my favorite ways to use it.
Versatile side. I love that this Southern squash casserole works beautifully with a casual summer dinner of grilled meat and fancy Thanksgiving holiday meals alike. It’s a recipe to keep in your back pocket for any occasion.

Overhead view of ingredients needed to make Southern squash casserole

Recipe Ingredients

Besides squash, this recipe is made with just a handful of ingredients and spices. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the exact measurements.

Butter – For sauting the veggies. Salted or unsalted are both fine.
Yellow squash – Sliced into 1/4 inch thick pieces. Try to make them all the same thickness for even cooking.
Onion – Adds flavor to the squash.
Eggs – Help hold the mixture together.
Sour cream – Adds a tangy creaminess to the casserole.
Cheddar cheese – Monterey Jack or a blend of similar cheeses are works.
Mayonnaise – Adds a rich creamy flavor and texture.
Spices – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper season the casserole.
Ritz crackers – Adds a bit of crunchy texture to the top of the casserole.

How To Make Southern Squash Casserole

This side dish casserole is only takes about 15 minutes of hands-on time. The printable instructions can be found in the recipe card below.

Prep. Preheat the oven to 350F. Grease the casserole dish.
Cook the squash. Melt the butter over medium heat. Saute the squash and onion with a bit of salt for 8-10 minutes, until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
Make the cheese mixture. Whisk together the eggs, sour cream, cheese, mayonnaise, and spices.
Combine. Gently stir the squash mixture into the egg and cheese mixture. Transfer to the casserole dish in an even layer.
Add the topping. Combine the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Let cool for 5 minutes then serve and enjoy!

A spoon in serving Southern squash casserole

Tips & Variations

Here are a few easy ways to customize this squash casserole recipe.

Add a protein. Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.
Mix in some fresh herbs. Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also be mixed into the filling.
Try it with Greek yogurt. Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter option. It’ll still have the same tangy, creamy flavor.
Other topping options. Instead of Ritz crackers, try using crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a different texture.
Make ahead. Assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

Overhead view of a plate of Southern squash casserole

Serving Suggestions

Southern squash casserole pairs well with nearly any protein. A few of my favorites are roasted chicken and honey garlic pork chops. It’s also an excellent side dish for holiday meals, next to turkey or ham and all the traditional sides.

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

Fridge. Store leftover southern squash casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Freezer. This casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.