Whenever I think of cozy family dinners or summer potlucks, this squash casserole always comes to mind.

It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with the perfect golden breadcrumb crust—an old-fashioned favorite that never gets old.

It’s one of those feel-good comfort dishes that reminds me of Sunday suppers at grandma’s table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Southern flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients

Perfect balance between creamy filling and crisp topping

A great way to use up fresh summer squash

Pairs beautifully with grilled meats or holiday spreads

Always a hit with both kids and adults

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Fresh yellow squash – Tender and sweet, it forms the heart of the dish

Onion – Adds a subtle savory layer

Eggs + milk – For a creamy, custard-like texture

Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds rich flavor

Breadcrumbs – Fresh or dried, for the signature crunchy topping

Melted butter – Makes the topping irresistibly golden

Salt or garlic salt – Brings everything to life

Pro Tips Before You Start

Don’t overcook the squash on the stovetop—they’ll keep softening in the oven

Drain and pat dry the squash and onions well to prevent sogginess

Fresh breadcrumbs give a better texture, but dried work just fine

Colby Jack cheese gives a slightly milder taste than cheddar—pick your favorite

Use a well-greased dish for easy serving and cleanup

How to Make Squash Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Veggies

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Slice the squash and onion into ¼-inch thick pieces.

Cut any large squash slices in half for easier bites.

Step 2: Soften the Squash

Place the squash and onion in a pot with enough water to nearly cover.

Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes, just until slightly tender.

Drain in a colander and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Custard Base

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs.

Stir in the milk, cheese, salt, and a small portion of the breadcrumbs to help thicken the mixture.

Step 4: Combine with Vegetables

Pat the squash and onions dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture.

Gently fold them into the egg mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch or 1½-quart baking dish.

Mix the remaining breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly around the edges.

Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

What to Serve It With

Roast chicken or pork chops

BBQ ribs or grilled sausage

Garden salad or green beans

Holiday mains like turkey or ham

Variations / Substitutions

Add crumbled bacon or ham for a heartier dish

Mix in zucchini with the yellow squash

Use sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess

Swap cheese types—try mozzarella or pepper jack

Use crushed Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs for a buttery crunch

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Reheat in the oven at 350°F to crisp up the topping again

Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months

Great to prep a day ahead and bake just before serving

FAQs

Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it fully, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What cheese works best?
Cheddar or Colby Jack are classic, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or even a blend.

Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk will work, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I keep the casserole from being watery?
Be sure to drain and pat dry the cooked squash and onions before mixing them in.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it fully gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and add extra time in the oven.

Final Thoughts

This squash casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of summer vegetables and Southern hospitality.

With its creamy texture and crunchy topping, it brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal.

Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to comfort dish in your kitchen too.