This easy slow cooker squash casserole combines fresh squash and creamy cheese, all topped with buttery Ritz crackers for a crunchy finish. It’s a cozy side dish that everyone loves!
I love how simple it is to just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Plus, that crunchy topping always makes me want to go back for seconds (or thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish, bringing a mild and slightly sweet flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works just as well!
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the casserole. Sweet onions like Vidalia are great for a milder taste. If you’re sensitive to onion, you can skip it or use onion powder instead.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its rich flavor. Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese for a lighter version!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These give creaminess. Greek yogurt is a fantastic healthier alternative; it’s tangy and works well in this recipe.
Ritz Crackers: For that crunchy topping, Ritz are unbeatable! You can use any buttery cracker like Town House or even crushed cornflakes for a different twist.
How Do I Perfectly Layer Ingredients in My Slow Cooker?
Layering ingredients properly ensures even cooking and delicious flavor in your casserole. Here’s how:
- Start with the squash and onion combo at the bottom. This lets them cook through and blend well.
- Pour the cheese mixture over them evenly, so every bit of squash gets that creamy goodness.
- Finally, sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs on top. This creates a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Make sure to gently fold the layers so everything mixes well, but still keep the topping on top. This method gives you the best texture and flavor!
Easy Slow Cooker Squash Casserole With Ritz Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious casserole takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and requires 4 to 5 hours of cooking time in your slow cooker. Just gather your ingredients, toss them in, and let the slow cooker do all the magic while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Start by lightly greasing the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced yellow squash and finely chopped onion. Stir them together nicely so they mix well.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is well blended. This creamy mixture is what makes the casserole so delicious!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the cheese mixture over the squash and onion, and gently fold everything together until the squash is evenly coated. You want every slice to be covered in that creamy goodness!
5. Transfer to the Slow Cooker:
Carefully transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and spread it out evenly, making sure it’s packed in nicely.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are completely coated in butter. This will give a lovely crispy topping!
7. Add Topping to Casserole:
Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs evenly over the squash mixture in the slow cooker. This will create that crunchy, flavorful layer on top!
8. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the squash is tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Yum!
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor right before serving. It looks so pretty!
10. Enjoy!
Serve warm as a comforting side dish to any meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and you’ll love how easy it is to make!
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash works perfectly, you can also use zucchini or even a mix of both for added flavor and variety. Just slice them thinly to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before! Combine the squash, onion, and cheese mixture, then cover and refrigerate. In the morning, just transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook as directed.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It also makes a great addition to lunch boxes!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cracker for the Topping?
Definitely! While Ritz crackers are delicious, feel free to use any buttery cracker or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture. Just keep the flavor profile in mind!
