Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers*! It’s like a warm hug on a plate! The unique flavor of fresh summer squash really shines through, and when you pair it with the creamy goodness of cheese and sour cream, it’s a match made in heaven. But the real star? That crunchy topping of Ritz crackers! It adds the perfect texture that makes every bite irresistible. I remember the first time I made this dish for a family gathering; my aunt couldn’t get enough of it! It’s become a staple at our summer barbecues, and I guarantee it’ll be a hit at yours too. So, let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 cups summer squash, sliced (fresh works best for that vibrant flavor!)
- 1 cup onion, chopped (I love using sweet onions for a milder taste)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack for extra creaminess!)
- 1 cup sour cream (adds a delightful tanginess)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or substitute with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian twist)
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed (the secret to that crunchy topping!)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (this brings the cracker topping to life!)
How to Prepare Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Preheat the Oven
First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because a hot oven helps everything bake evenly and gives your casserole that beautiful golden brown top we all crave. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!
Sauté the Vegetables
While the oven is warming up, grab a large pan and add a splash of olive oil if you like. Toss in your sliced summer squash and chopped onion. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until they’re tender and fragrant. You’ll know they’re ready when the squash starts to soften and the onions turn slightly translucent—such a delightful smell fills the kitchen!
Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Give it a good stir until everything’s well mixed and creamy. This is where the magic begins! Once your sautéed veggies are ready, fold them into this cheesy mixture gently. You want to keep that creamy texture, so be careful not to overmix.
Combine and Bake
Now, pour that delicious veggie-cheese mix into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Here comes the fun part—take your crushed Ritz crackers and mix them with the melted butter. Sprinkle this crunchy topping all over the casserole. It’s going to add such a wonderful texture! Bake it in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. To check for doneness, just give it a little shake; if it jiggles slightly but looks set, you’re good to go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers is not just delicious; it’s a total game-changer for your meal planning! Here’s why I know you’re going to fall in love with it:
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Simple ingredients: With just a handful of everyday staples, you likely have most of these items in your pantry already!
- Delicious flavor: The combination of creamy cheese, tender squash, and the crunch of Ritz crackers creates a symphony of taste and texture that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a potluck, barbecue, or family dinner, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles all around.
- Versatile: You can easily tweak it with different cheeses or veggies based on what you have on hand, ensuring it’s always a little different each time!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers turns out perfect every time! Here are my go-to tips:
- Fresh is best: Use fresh summer squash if you can. It really amps up the flavor and texture!
- Cheese variations: Feel free to mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a twist on the classic flavor.
- Vegetarian option: Swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce to keep it meat-free.
- Crunch factor: If you want an extra crunchy topping, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the Ritz cracker mix.
- Don’t skip preheating: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking; this ensures even cooking and that beautiful golden crust!
These little tricks will elevate your casserole game and keep everyone raving about your cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about what’s in this delicious summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 7g
These values are estimates, and nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used. But hey, it’s packed with goodness and flavor! Enjoy every bite knowing you’re savoring something delicious and satisfying.
FAQ About Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Got some questions about making this *summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I use frozen summer squash?
While fresh summer squash gives the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free cracker or breadcrumb alternative. There are some great options out there that maintain that crunch!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with grilled meats, a fresh salad, or even some crusty bread. It’s versatile enough to complement many dishes!
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of this delicious *summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers* (though I doubt it!), storing it properly is key to keeping that amazing flavor and texture. First, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure it’s well sealed to prevent any odors from sneaking in!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until it’s heated through. If you prefer the microwave, that works too—just use a microwave-safe dish and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming. Enjoy every bite like it’s fresh out of the oven!
Print
Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers: 5-Star Comfort Food
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious summer squash casserole topped with crunchy Ritz crackers.
Ingredients
- 4 cups summer squash, sliced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pan, sauté the summer squash and onion until tender.
- In a bowl, mix the cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the cheese mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Fresh summer squash works best.
- You can add more cheese for extra flavor.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: summer squash casserole, Ritz crackers, vegetable casserole
