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Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole Recipe

Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole Recipe

Paula Deen’s Squash Casserole is a classic Southern comfort food combining tender yellow squash with sharp cheddar cheese and a crunchy buttery cracker topping. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for family meals, holidays, and gatherings, delivering rich flavors, creamy texture, and a golden crispy crust.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 3 cups fresh yellow squash, sliced

Dairy & Eggs

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

Toppings & Seasonings

  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Squash: Wash and slice the yellow squash into thin, bite-sized pieces. Boil the squash in salted water until tender but still firm, then drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This step ensures the casserole stays creamy without becoming soggy.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained squash with beaten eggs, sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed to create a creamy filling.
  3. Prepare the Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs. Mix the crushed crackers with melted butter to create a buttery, crunchy topping that will become golden when baked.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Grease a baking dish and pour in the squash mixture. Evenly spread the cracker topping over the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  5. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set. This allows the slices to hold their shape perfectly when served.

Notes

  • Drain squash well to prevent a watery casserole.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for richer flavor.
  • Don’t skip the butter in the topping to ensure a crispy crust.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep the casserole moist and delicious.
  • Allow the casserole to rest before serving so it holds together nicely.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free crackers)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 430mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: squash casserole, Paula Deen, Southern side dish, comfort food, cheesy casserole, yellow squash, holiday side