Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that screams summer, you’ve got to try my summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender squash and onions with a creamy, cheesy filling, all topped off with that irresistible crunch of buttery Ritz crackers. I remember making this dish for the first time at a family gathering, and it disappeared in minutes! The best part? It’s so easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful summer squash casserole, and I promise it’s super straightforward! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups summer squash, sliced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (about 10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to adjust the cheese or add your favorite herbs for a personal twist! Each ingredient brings something special to the dish, creating layers of flavor that are oh-so-satisfying. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious casserole! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish that’s bound to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly. Nobody likes a soggy bottom, right? So, let that oven get nice and warm while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your sliced summer squash and chopped onion. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. You want the onions to be translucent, and the squash should be just soft enough to release all its delicious juices. Stir occasionally to keep everything cooking evenly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once your veggies are sautéed, grab a large mixing bowl. Toss in the sautéed squash and onion, along with the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and you see that lovely cheesy goodness throughout.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now, pour that creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish, but any similar size will do. Spread it out evenly, and then take your crushed Ritz crackers and sprinkle them generously over the top. Finish it off by drizzling that melted butter over the crackers for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the top is a beautiful golden brown. It’s going to smell amazing, so be prepared for some serious cravings while you wait!
Tips for Success with Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
- Don’t rush the sautéing: Take your time with the squash and onions. The more tender they are, the better the flavor!
- Cheese options: Feel free to mix different cheeses or even add a bit of spice with pepper jack for a kick!
- Customize your veggies: This recipe is super flexible! Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge!
- Keep an eye on it: Ovens can vary, so check your casserole a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid over-browning.
- Garnish for flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving adds a lovely pop of color and freshness!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
While I love sharing the deliciousness of my summer squash casserole with Ritz crackers, it’s important to note that the nutritional information I provide can vary. Factors like the specific brands of ingredients you use, portion sizes, and any modifications you make can all affect the nutrition content. So, while I do my best to provide accurate details, consider this as a general guide rather than a precise measurement. Always feel free to check the labels of your ingredients if you’re keeping a close eye on your nutrition! Enjoy every bite without worry!
FAQ About Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this summer squash casserole is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember, if it’s coming straight from the fridge, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it gets bubbly and golden. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience when the time comes to serve it!
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you’re looking for alternatives to Ritz crackers, you’re in luck! You can use crushed saltine crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even homemade croutons for that crunchy topping. If you want a gluten-free option, try gluten-free crackers or even crushed cornflakes! Each of these substitutes will still give you that satisfying crunch, so don’t hesitate to get creative with what you have on hand.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! This casserole is incredibly flexible, and adding other vegetables is a fantastic way to boost its flavor and nutrition. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even some sautéed spinach work beautifully alongside the summer squash. Just make sure to sauté them until tender, just like you did with the squash and onions, to keep that lovely creamy texture intact. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and cheesy flavor that everyone in the family will adore.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and cheese.
- Kid-friendly dish that turns healthy veggies into a delightful treat.
- Perfect for potlucks or gatherings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Summer Squash Casserole with Ritz Crackers: 5 Delicious Secrets
- Gesamtzeit: 45 minutes
- Ertrag: 6 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Vegetarisch
Beschreibung
A delicious summer squash casserole topped with crunchy Ritz crackers.
Zutaten
- 4 cups summer squash, sliced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the squash and onion until tender.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed squash, cheese, sour cream, and soup.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning based on your preference.
- Feel free to add other vegetables for more flavor.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 30 minutes
- Kategorie: Side Dish
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 serving
- Kalorien: 250
- Zucker: 3g
- Natrium: 500mg
- Fett: 15g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 8g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 20g
- Faser: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterin: 30mg
Keywords: summer squash casserole, Ritz crackers
