Squash, Onion, And Ritz Crackers Are The Start Of This Old-Fashioned Southern Side Dish

Hearty and delicious, the unassuming casserole transforms a few modest ingredients into a festive classic that suits potlucks, family gatherings, and more. The American South is home to many noteworthy casseroles, including King Ranch from Texas and the sweet potato casserole studded with fluffy marshmallows. Another Southern casserole that should be landing on your dining room table this holiday season is the mighty squash casserole.

Though we can't pinpoint squash casserole's exact origins, it's been a Southern comfort food mainstay in home kitchens for decades, likely dating back to the post-Great Depression era, when transforming leftovers and inexpensive ingredients into an affordable meal became the norm. The homey dish is a mixture of slices of sautéed yellow squash, diced onions, eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheese, all baked with a topping of buttery, crumbled Ritz crackers. The combination of creamy squash and onions goes well with the crunchy crackers, and swapping breadcrumbs for crackers is one of the greatest tips for a craveable casserole. The good news, too, is that summer squash isn't just a summertime ingredient — it's available all year-round.

Time to put some South in your mouth. Season yellow squash cut into half-inch medallions, add to a nonstick skillet with oil, and cook until golden brown on both sides. Then, cook your Vidalia onions until they're translucent. While the vegetables cook, you can mix the filling, which typically includes equal parts mayonnaise and sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and a whole egg. Fold in the squash and onion, and transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with crumbled Ritz crackers and melted butter, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

As always, there are a few ways to ensure that you have the best old-school squash casserole. Letting the squash rest after seasoning helps draw out excess moisture through osmosis, so drain the released liquid in a colander before cooking to prevent a watery casserole. And don't skip the melted butter over the Ritz crackers — it helps the crumbs turn golden without browning. This dish also works well with any leftover sautéed squash you may have on hand.

If you're looking for other ways to elevate the dish, give the casserole a boost of umami by way of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of MSG. For another layer of flavor, try grilling the squash medallions for a smoky char or caramelizing the onions for deeper sweetness and richness. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage complement the casserole beautifully. Whichever lane you choose, Southern squash casserole deserves a place on your dining room table for any occasion.