This cozy casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Made with tender squash and topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, it’s perfect for any meal.
Trust me, the cheesy goodness combined with that buttery cracker topping will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it practically makes itself in the slow cooker!
I love how simple this recipe is. Just chop, toss, and let it do its thing while I relax. It’s my go-to for busy days or when I want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works perfectly as a substitute. They’re similar in texture and taste, so your dish won’t miss a beat.
Onion: A small onion adds flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste, green onions or shallots are good alternatives. They lend a sweeter note that blends nicely with the squash.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, go for mild cheddar or even mozzarella. Vegan cheese is another option for dairy-free diets!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It gives a nice creaminess while adding a protein boost!
Ritz Crackers: These are great for topping, but feel free to use any buttery crackers. If you’re gluten-free, there are excellent gluten-free crackers available that work just as well.
How Do You Get the Best Texture in Your Casserole?
The key to achieving the perfect texture in this casserole hinges on cooking the squash just right. If you’re concerned about excess moisture, here’s what to do:
- Pre-cook the sliced squash in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes to eliminate some of the water.
- After cooking, let it sit in a colander for a few minutes to drain further before adding it to your mixture.
- This step ensures your casserole isn’t too watery and helps your topping stay nice and crispy!
Cooking low and slow is also essential. This allows all the flavors to come together and the squash to become tender. If you can, try to avoid opening the slow cooker frequently, as it lets out heat and can extend cooking time.
Easy Slow Cooker Squash Casserole With Ritz Crackers
Ingredients:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 sleeve (about 14-15 crackers) Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and will cook in your slow cooker for 4-6 hours. Perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty dish waiting for you at dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This small step makes cleanup easy later!
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion. Give them a good toss to make sure they’re mixed well.
3. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it) until everything is nice and smooth. This will bring great flavor to your casserole!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, pour that creamy mixture over the squash and onion. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir gently until everything is evenly coated and combined. Yum!
5. Load the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the squash mixture into your prepared slow cooker, spreading it out evenly to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
6. Create the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, making sure all the crumbs are well coated. This will give a tasty crunch on top!
7. Add the Cracker Topping:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the squash mixture in the slow cooker. This is where the magic happens with that golden crust!
8. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4-6 hours. You want the squash to be tender and the casserole to be nice and bubbly. If you can, resist the urge to peek too often!
9. Crisping the Top:
About 15-20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, uncover the slow cooker to let the topping crisp up a little more. This will create that perfect crunchy top!
10. Ready to Serve:
Once it’s cooked to perfection, ladle out the casserole warm and enjoy it as a tasty side dish or even a light main course. Everyone will love the creamy, cheesy, and crunchy goodness!
Enjoy this delicious homemade Slow Cooker Squash Casserole—it’s a comfort food classic that’s super easy to whip up!
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Yes! While yellow squash is traditional for this recipe, zucchini is a great substitute. You can even combine both for added flavor and color!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the squash and onion mixture and the creamy sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine before transferring to the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
What Can I Serve with Squash Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad. It can be a delightful side or even a light main dish on its own!
