Crack Squash Casserole with Buttery Ritz Topping
Rich and creamy squash casserole that combines tender sliced squash with tangy cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup, topped with a golden buttery Ritz cracker crust. This comfort food side dish gets its addictive quality from the perfect balance of creamy vegetables and crunchy topping. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and satisfying that pairs well with grilled meats or roasted chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 cups squash, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushedpanko breadcrumbs1:1neutraladds gluten
less buttery
- ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
- 2
Combine squash, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup in large mixing bowl
- 3
Pour mixture into greased baking dish
- 4
Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter in separate bowl
- 5
Sprinkle cracker mixture over top of squash mixture
- 6
Bake for 40 minutes until top is golden brown and casserole is bubbly
Tips
Slice squash uniformly about 1/4 inch thick for even cooking and tender texture throughout the casserole.
Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to set up properly before serving for cleaner slices.
Use freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and creamier texture.
Good to Know
refrigerate up to 3 days covered
assemble day before, add topping before baking
serve hot as side dish
Common Mistakes
slice squash evenly to avoid mushy spots
grease dish well to prevent sticking
let rest before serving to avoid runny texture
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen squash thoroughly first to remove excess moisture that could make the casserole watery.
What type of squash works best for this recipe?
Yellow summer squash or zucchini work perfectly. Both have mild flavor and tender texture when baked.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350 degree oven until heated through.