I can’t resist sharing a dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners: the squash casserole recipe. Not only does this recipe offer a mouthwatering mix of textures and flavors, but it’s also one that I’ve refined over the years, making it a sure-fire hit at any table. So, grab your apron, and let’s get into the heart of creating this comforting classic.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet
Having the right tools can make or break a dish, especially one as simple yet sublime as a squash casserole recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow squash | 4 cups, sliced |
| Zucchini | 2 cups, sliced |
| Large onion | 1, chopped |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Ritz crackers | 1 cup, crushed |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Eggs | 2, beaten |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
Did you know? Squash was one of the first crops cultivated by humans in America, alongside beans and corn.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the yellow squash and zucchini.
- Chop the onion.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the vegetables in butter until soft.
Cooking the veggies before assembling the casserole removes excess moisture, preventing a soggy bottom.
Step 2 – Mix the Casserole Base
- In your mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with crushed crackers, shredded cheese, eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until everything is well mixed.
A good mix ensures each bite is as flavorful as the last.
Step 3 – Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your casserole dish lightly with butter.
- Transfer the vegetable and cracker mixture into the dish.
Step 4 – Bake
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Always check your casserole at the 25-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
Additional Tips
- For a crisper top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving; this helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
Pairing Suggestions
A squash casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or pork
- A fresh green salad
This dish is hearty yet fresh, making it versatile enough to accompany various proteins.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
These values are approximate; actual nutritional content may vary.
Dietary Information
This squash casserole recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free if gluten-free crackers are used. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cheese.
FAQs about Squash Casserole Recipe
What can I use instead of yellow squash?
You can substitute yellow squash with butternut or acorn squash, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How do I make the casserole creamier?
For a creamier texture, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or a dollop of cream cheese to the mixture.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
For a non-vegetarian version, consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham.
What are some other spices I can use?
Experiment with paprika, cumin, or curry powder for a different flavor profile.
How do I make this casserole crispier?
For extra crunch, add more crushed crackers to the top layer or sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
This squash casserole recipe is more than just food; it’s comfort in a dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises to deliver on flavor and simplicity.
Feel free to leave any comments, questions, or your personal tweaks on the recipe below. I love hearing how dishes turn out in different kitchens!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Salmon Patty Recipe
- Rasta Pasta Recipe
- Pastina Recipe
- Hamburger Steak Recipe
- Boneless Chicken Thigh Recipes
- Beef Stir Fry Recipe
Squash Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 cups Yellow squash sliced
- 2 cups Zucchini sliced
- 1 Large onion chopped
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 cup Ritz crackers crushed
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 Eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Vegetables
- Slice the yellow squash and zucchini.
- Chop the onion.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the vegetables in butter until soft.
- Cooking the veggies before assembling the casserole removes excess moisture, preventing a soggy bottom.
Step 2 – Mix the Casserole Base
- In your mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with crushed crackers, shredded cheese, eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until everything is well mixed.
- A good mix ensures each bite is as flavorful as the last.
Step 3 – Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your casserole dish lightly with butter.
- Transfer the vegetable and cracker mixture into the dish.
Step 4 – Bake
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Always check your casserole at the 25-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
Notes
- For a crisper top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving; this helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
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