Aunt Nannie'S Squash Loaf
A savory squash loaf with tender cooked yellow squash, seasoned hamburger, and aromatic spices, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and drain.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Pour mixture into a loaf pan or casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with homemade mushroom sauce or a non-dairy alternative for a different flavor profile. Ensure the squash is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the loaf. Toasting the bread crumbs adds a nice crunch; you can use whole wheat or gluten-free bread if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
This squash loaf is a hearty main course that pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, such as a side of Broccoli, Bacon Cheddar Toss. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt sauce for added creaminess. Consider serving it alongside Janet'S Glazed Ham With Dijon Pineapple Sauce for a delightful meal combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking for warmth. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Nannie'S Squash Loaf contains roughly 358 calories, with 11g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1947mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the loaf. This will help maintain the desired texture. Fresh squash is typically preferred for flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the hamburger and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for protein. You could also add in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Make sure to use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version to keep it entirely vegetarian.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the mixture. A dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can also provide a nice kick. Experimenting with different cheeses, like cheddar or mozzarella, can add richness as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).