Bacon Flavored Squash
A savory baked squash dish infused with smoky bacon flavor, topped with Swiss and Cheddar cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon, drain, crumble, and reserve drippings.
- Saute squash and green onions in bacon drippings for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Combine beaten egg and sour cream, then add to the squash and onion mixture.
- Stir in half of the bacon pieces.
- Spoon half of the squash mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle Swiss cheese on top of the first layer.
- Add the remaining squash mixture to the casserole.
- Sprinkle Cheddar cheese on top of the second layer.
- Sprinkle remaining bacon on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, try adding garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano to the squash while sautéing. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely and add smoked paprika for a similar flavor. You can also swap the cheeses; mozzarella or pepper jack can provide a different twist and pair well with the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This Bacon Flavored Squash makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or a hearty main course alongside a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Breakfast In A Loaf for a satisfying brunch spread. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Flavored Squash contains roughly 363 calories, with 16g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 363 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
While fresh squash is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen squash as a time-saving alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before sautéing to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or pork recipes. A crisp green salad or a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Additionally, it makes a great side for brunch gatherings.
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).