If you’ve ever visited Cracker Barrel, you’ve probably fallen in love with their Southern-style comfort dishes — especially the Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden brown on top, offering that perfect mix of texture and flavor. This homemade version brings that same heartwarming taste straight to your table using simple pantry ingredients and fresh yellow squash.

What Is Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe

The Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole is a beloved Southern side dish made with tender yellow squash, sautéed onions, creamy cheese sauce, and a buttery cracker topping. It’s baked until bubbly and crisp, creating a warm, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with any main course. The casserole balances sweetness from the squash, creaminess from cheese and milk, and crunch from the topping — a perfect Southern comfort classic.

Other Popular Squash Casserole Recipes

Reasons to Try Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole Recipe

Simple to make – Requires just a few everyday ingredients and basic kitchen tools.
Perfect comfort food – Warm, cheesy, and creamy with a buttery crunch.
Family favorite – Loved by adults and kids alike at dinner tables.
Versatile side dish – Complements roasted meats, poultry, or holiday meals.
Freezer-friendly – Easy to prepare ahead and store for later use.
Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive ingredients yet feels like restaurant quality.
Great for gatherings – Perfect addition to potlucks, cookouts, or Sunday dinners.

Ingredients Needed to Make Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

6 cups yellow squash, sliced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
½ cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or mushroom for vegetarian option)
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
¼ cup extra crushed crackers (for topping)

Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

Instructions to Prepare Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Cook squash and onions: In a large skillet, sauté sliced squash and onions with butter until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
Drain excess liquid: Remove from heat and drain any remaining moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked squash and onions with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add crackers: Stir in crushed crackers to give the mixture its signature texture.
Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
Add topping: Mix melted butter with the remaining crushed crackers and sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.
Serve hot: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

What Goes Well With Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

Roasted Chicken – A perfect main dish to balance the creamy casserole.
Grilled Pork Chops – Adds smoky richness to your Southern meal.
Baked Ham – The sweetness of ham complements the buttery squash.
Steak or Beef Roast – Brings out the casserole’s savory undertones.
Mashed Potatoes – Doubles up the comfort factor with smooth texture.
Green Beans – Offers a fresh, crisp contrast to the casserole’s richness.

Key Tips for Making Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

Drain thoroughly for the best texture – Removing excess moisture from the squash prevents a watery casserole.
Use fresh squash for flavor – Fresh, firm squash gives the dish a naturally sweet taste.
Mix cheeses for depth – Combine cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
Don’t skip the topping – The buttery cracker crust adds the essential crunch that defines this dish.
Add seasoning smartly – A touch of garlic or onion powder elevates the casserole’s aroma.
Bake uncovered – This helps achieve a golden, crisp crust without steaming the topping.
Let it rest before serving – Cooling slightly helps flavors meld and makes slicing easier.

Creative Variations of Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

Add bacon crumbles – Adds smoky and savory crunch to every bite.
Mix in zucchini – A great way to use extra garden vegetables.
Use cream cheese – Makes the casserole extra rich and velvety.
Top with panko crumbs – For an even crispier golden topping.
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Turn it vegetarian – Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom.
Add herbs – Fresh thyme or parsley brightens up the flavor.

Storage Guidelines for Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

Refrigerate leftovers – Store cooled casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for longer storage – Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw before reheating – Move from freezer to refrigerator overnight for best texture.
Use freezer-safe dishes – To prevent cracking during reheating.

Reheating Tips for Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole

Oven method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the casserole for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave method: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway for even warmth.
From frozen: Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) for 40–45 minutes or until piping hot.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 280
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Sugar: 4g

FAQs

How do you keep Cracker Barrel squash casserole from becoming watery?

To keep squash casserole from turning watery, make sure to drain the cooked squash and onions thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients. You can also lightly press the squash with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Avoid overcooking the squash during sautéing, as that can release too much water.

Can I make Cracker Barrel squash casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the casserole as directed but don’t add the cracker topping. Cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add the cracker topping and bake as usual until golden and bubbly.

What kind of squash is best for Cracker Barrel squash casserole?

Yellow summer squash works best for this casserole because it’s tender, mildly sweet, and cooks quickly. You can also mix in zucchini for added color and texture, but yellow squash gives the most authentic Cracker Barrel flavor.

Can you freeze Cracker Barrel squash casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Final Words

There you have it—the ultimate comfort food, perfected. This Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole is the heart of Southern hospitality on a spoon, with its velvety, cheesy center and that irresistible golden, buttery crunch on top. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.