Charleston Squash Casserole
A creamy, cheesy squash casserole with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners and potlucks, showcasing tender squash paired with sharp cheese and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut and cook squash in a small amount of water until tender; mash well.
- Add salt, pepper, butter or margarine, chicken bouillon cube, and grated onion.
- Fold in well beaten egg.
- Fold in sour cream.
- Pour mixture into a greased 1-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle a topping of bread crumbs, grated sharp cheese, and paprika over the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese instead of sour cream, or blend in some cooked, pureed carrots for added sweetness. If you're short on squash, zucchini works as a great substitute. Ensure the squash is well-drained to prevent a watery casserole. For added flavor, try using garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Charleston Squash Casserole as a side dish to grilled meats or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Stuffing Balls or a hearty Vegetable And Black-Eyed Pea Soup. For a special touch, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Charleston Squash Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious to avoid overheating, which can change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charleston Squash Casserole contains roughly 346 calories, with 14g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (120% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Charleston Squash Casserole a day ahead. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What type of squash is best for this recipe?
Small yellow squash is traditional for Charleston Squash Casserole, but you can also use zucchini or a mix of both. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. The flavor will remain delicious regardless of the squash variety you choose.
Can I make this dish healthier?
Yes! To lighten the casserole, consider using low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. You can also replace the butter with olive oil or unsalted vegetable broth for sautéing. Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
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).