Description
This Savory Summer Squash Casserole with a Crunchy Cracker Topping is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for warm-weather dining. Featuring tender yellow squash blended with sautéed onions, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar, then topped with a buttery, crispy cracker crust, this casserole balances creamy richness and crisp texture in every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 cups Yellow Squash, sliced â…“ inch thick
- 1 cup Sweet Onion, diced
Dairy and Eggs
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1 large Egg
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
Canned Goods
- 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
Seasoning & Toppings
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 cup Ritz Crackers, crushed
- Additional Butter for cracker topping (about 2 tablespoons melted)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
- Slice the Squash: Slice the yellow squash into â…“ inch thick pieces and place them in a large bowl.
- Sauté the Onion: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
- Melt the Cream Cheese: Stir the cream cheese into the warm onions, stirring continuously until fully melted and well combined, creating a creamy base.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sautéed onion-cream cheese mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, egg, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are combined.
- Add the Squash: Gently fold the sliced yellow squash into the creamy mixture, ensuring all slices are coated evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag. Mix the crushed crackers with about 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the surface of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- Substitute sweet onion with green onions for a milder flavor.
- Use unsalted butter to control sodium levels.
- You can replace the cream of mushroom soup with homemade or gluten-free varieties for dietary needs.
- Swap cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter texture.
- A flax egg can replace the large egg for a vegan option.
- Monterey Jack cheese can be used instead of sharp cheddar for a milder taste.
- For gluten-free diets, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning to taste.
