It was a chilly autumn evening, and I couldn’t wait to cozy up with a warm, comforting dish. That’s when I remembered my grandma’s famous Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole. As I pulled it out of the oven, the aroma of buttery Ritz crackers and simmering squash filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. I couldn’t wait to dig in and savor every bite.

This Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a crispy, golden topping that just melts in your mouth. Every time I make it, it brings back such fond memories of gathered around the table with loved ones, enjoying each other’s company and indulging in a truly delectable dish.

Why This Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole

There’s something truly special about this Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole recipe. The key is in the perfect blend of flavors and textures – the velvety smooth squash, the tangy sour cream, the earthy thyme, and the buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping. It’s a comforting classic that’s been elevated to new heights.

What sets this recipe apart is the way the ingredients work together to create a truly irresistible dish. The sour cream and cream of mushroom soup create a rich, creamy base that perfectly complements the tender squash. The shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses add a delightful gooey factor, while the beaten eggs help bind everything together.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at the star players in this Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole:

  • 3 pounds yellow squash, peeled and cubed – This provides the perfect foundation for the casserole, with a sweet and tender texture that shines through.
  • 1 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the squash.
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Contributes a savory, creamy element that brings the whole dish together.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – These cheeses create a gooey, melty topping that’s absolutely irresistible.
  • 2 eggs, beaten – Acts as a binder to hold the casserole together.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – These seasonings add depth of flavor and aromatic complexity.
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed – The star of the show, providing a buttery, crunchy topping that takes this casserole to new heights.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps the Ritz cracker topping achieve that perfect golden-brown, crispy texture.

Step-by-Step Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole Instructions

Preparing Your Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole

Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole is a breeze to prepare, with a total time of just 60 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a 9×13 inch baking dish, and a few basic kitchen tools.

1- First, peel and cube the 3 pounds of yellow squash, making sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed squash, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together until well-incorporated.
3- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
4- In a separate bowl, crush 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers and toss them with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker topping over the squash mixture, covering it evenly.
5- Bake the Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the squash is tender.
6- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy this comforting, cheesy, and crispy delight.

Pro Tips for Success

To ensure your Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:

  1. Slice the squash into uniform pieces for even cooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes for the best texture.
  2. Don’t skimp on the Ritz crackers – the buttery, crunchy topping is the star of the show. Crush them into coarse crumbs for maximum coverage.
  3. For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a touch of cream cheese or heavy cream to the squash mixture.
  4. Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding some smoked Gouda or Parmesan for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving and Storing Your Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole

Perfect Pairings for Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole

This Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that serves 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. To round out the meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty loaf of bread. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead dish. Once baked, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer-term storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven as mentioned above.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole

Creative Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole Variations

While the classic Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping out the yellow squash for a combination of zucchini and yellow squash for added visual appeal. You could also experiment with different cheese blends, such as using a mixture of cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella.

For a seasonal twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or caramelized onions to the squash mixture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try topping the casserole with a crunchy, buttery breadcrumb or crushed potato chip topping instead of the Ritz crackers.

Making Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to make this Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. Replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed alternative. For the canned cream of mushroom soup, use a homemade or low-sodium version.

To make the dish gluten-free, swap out the Ritz crackers for crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. And for a vegan or dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese alternatives and omit the eggs, or substitute with a flax or chia “egg.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of squash besides yellow?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works great with a variety of squash, such as zucchini, butternut, or even a combination. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using a denser squash like butternut.

Q: How long does it take to prepare the Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole?
A: The total time for this recipe is 60 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking time.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish. You can assemble it ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 days before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s been chilled.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole recipe serves 6 people.

Q: What if my casserole turns out a bit watery?
A: If your casserole seems a bit too wet, try sprinkling some additional crushed Ritz crackers on top before baking. The crackers will help absorb any excess moisture.

Conclusion

Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole is a true comfort food classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy, cheesy filling and crunchy, buttery topping, it’s a dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

I hope you’ll give this Ritz Cracker Squash Casserole a try – it’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season and create lasting memories around the table. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Bon appétit!