Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe
A comforting and creamy squash casserole inspired by the classic Cracker Barrel dish. Tender yellow squash, sautéed onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping come together for a crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for holidays or family dinners.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 4½ lbs yellow squash cut into cubes
- 1 cup onion finely chopped
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 10.5 oz sour cream
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 large egg beaten
- 30 Ritz crackers crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the cubed squash and chopped onion until the squash is fork-tender, approximately 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, the squash and onions can be boiled until tender. Ensure the vegetables are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Create the Creamy Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and beaten egg. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
Incorporate the Squash and Onions:
- Add the drained squash and onions to the cheese mixture. Stir gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Initial Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the mixture is hot and beginning to bubble.
Prepare the Topping:
- While the casserole bakes, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl, stirring until the crackers are fully coated.
Add the Cracker Topping:
- After the initial baking time, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top.
Final Bake:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
To make this Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe gluten-free, substitute the Ritz crackers with a certified gluten-free cracker or breadcrumb alternative. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as mayonnaise and sour cream, are verified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.