Southern Cheesy Squash and Ritz Casserole
This Southern Cheesy Squash and Ritz Casserole is a delightful fusion of tender yellow squash, savory onions, and creamy cheddar cheese, all topped with a crunchy layer of buttery Ritz crackers. It embodies the essence of Southern comfort food, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. This recipe has been lovingly passed down from my Aunt Sally, a remarkable cook who filled our tables with warmth and flavor. Whether served at a family gathering or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy everyone's taste buds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
yellow squash
6 medium (chopped fine)
onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
salt
1 teaspoon (for boiling)
cheddar cheese
3/4 cup (shredded)
eggs
2 (beaten)
milk
1/3 cup (for mixing)
Ritz crackers
1 cup (crushed)
butter
1/2 cup (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Begin by preparing the squash: wash the yellow squash, cut off the ends, and chop them into fine pieces.
3
In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and introduce the chopped squash and onion. Boil for approximately 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4
Carefully drain the boiled squash and onion mixture, ensuring all excess moisture is removed. Set aside to cool slightly.
5
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese with the drained squash and onion mixture until well combined.
6
In another bowl, beat 2 eggs and then stir in 1/3 cup of milk. Pour this egg mixture into the squash mixture and stir until evenly incorporated.
7
Spread half of the squash mixture in a greased 2-quart casserole dish, then sprinkle 1/2 cup of crushed Ritz crackers on top, and drizzle with half of the melted butter.
8
Add the remaining squash mixture on top, followed by the rest of the crushed Ritz crackers and remaining melted butter for that irresistible crunchy topping.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting casserole that brings flavors of home to your table!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Cheesy Squash and Ritz Casserole?
It is a Southern comfort food side dish made of yellow squash, onions, cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping.
What type of squash is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 6 medium yellow squash.
How should I prepare the yellow squash?
Wash the squash, cut off the ends, and chop them into fine pieces before cooking.
How long do I need to boil the squash?
Boil the chopped squash and onion for approximately 15 minutes or until tender.
Do I need to boil the onion with the squash?
Yes, the 1/2 cup of chopped onion is boiled together with the squash in salted water.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How much cheddar cheese is required?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
What role do eggs play in the casserole?
Two beaten eggs are mixed with milk to act as a binder for the squash and cheese mixture.
How much milk should I use?
You will need 1/3 cup of milk to stir into the beaten eggs.
How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Ensure you carefully drain the boiled squash and onion mixture to remove all excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.
How many Ritz crackers are needed for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers.
How is the butter used in this recipe?
One half cup of melted butter is drizzled over the cracker layers to create a crunchy, golden topping.
What size casserole dish is best?
A greased 2-quart casserole dish is the recommended size.
How should I layer the casserole?
Spread half the squash mixture, top with half the crackers and butter, then repeat with the remaining squash and topping.
How long does the casserole bake?
Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Who is the original source of this recipe?
This recipe was passed down from the creator's Aunt Sally.
Can I serve this as a main course?
While it is typically a side dish, its hearty cheese and cracker content makes it very filling.
Is there salt added to the recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of salt is added to the water when boiling the squash and onions.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
It features tender, creamy squash and onions with an irresistible crunchy, buttery cracker topping.
Should I let it cool before serving?
Yes, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven to let it set.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
The recipe specifically recommends shredded cheddar for the best flavor profile.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, use a greased 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients: squash, onion, salt, cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, Ritz crackers, and butter.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for family meals.
Can I prepare the squash in advance?
Yes, you can chop the squash and onions ahead of time to save prep time.
What makes this a Southern style dish?
The combination of summer squash, plenty of butter, and a cracker crust is a hallmark of Southern comfort cooking.
Can I use frozen squash?
The recipe is designed for fresh medium yellow squash for the best texture.
What should I do if the topping isn't browning?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350 degrees F and that you have used the full amount of melted butter.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it is a vegetable side dish, though it contains dairy and eggs.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.