Squash casserole is a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients, this dish is a beloved staple in many households. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, squash casserole is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Join us as we explore the steps to create this heartwarming classic and indulge in its deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Yellow squash, sliced
- 1/2 Onion, medium, chopped
- 1/2 Carrot, grated
- 1 tbsp Green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp Red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp Butter, divided
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Sour cream
- 1/2 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup Fresh bread crumbs
- 8 Saltine crackers, crushed
Instructions:
- Prepare the Squash: Wash and slice the yellow squash into rounds. Place them in a large pot of boiling water and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Saute the Vegetables: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and grated carrot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, sautéed vegetables, heavy cream, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter. Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the fresh bread crumbs and crushed saltine crackers. Stir until the crumbs are coated in butter.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the buttered bread crumb mixture over the squash mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of squash casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Feel free to add extra cheese to the squash mixture or sprinkle more cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
- Crunchy Topping Variations: Experiment with different toppings such as crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions for added texture.
- Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the squash mixture for an additional layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh? Yes, frozen squash can be used as a convenient alternative. Simply thaw and drain the squash before incorporating it into the recipe.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Is it necessary to use both heavy cream and sour cream? While both ingredients contribute to the creamy texture of the casserole, you can adjust the ratios based on personal preference. You can also substitute one for the other if needed.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For a keto or low-carb version of squash casserole, you can replace the bread crumbs and saltine crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Additionally, opt for full-fat dairy products such as cream cheese and heavy cream, and use low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower in place of yellow squash.
In conclusion, squash casserole is a timeless dish that embodies the essence of comfort and home-cooked goodness. With its creamy texture, flavorful vegetables, and satisfying crunch, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether served as a side dish or the star of the meal, squash casserole is sure to bring warmth and joy to any gathering. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight in the heartwarming flavors of this beloved classic!
