Edith'S Squash Casserole
A hearty squash casserole combining tender cooked squash, grated carrot, onion, green pepper, and seasoned ground beef, topped with cheese and bread crumbs for a comforting, versatile dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked squash, grated carrot, chopped small onion, and chopped green pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the vegetable mixture.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and mix it into the vegetable and beef mixture.
- Stir in bread crumbs, cheese, and milk (or use a can of cream of celery or mushroom soup as a substitute for milk and flour).
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional cheese or bread crumbs on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish. You can also replace the milk with a can of cream of celery or mushroom soup for added flavor. If you want to boost the nutrition, add in some chopped spinach or kale. This dish is reminiscent of Hamburger Meat And Potato Casserole, making it a versatile option.
Serving Suggestions
Edith's Squash Casserole is fantastic served as a main dish alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. It also pairs well with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal. For an added kick, serve with a side of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. This dish can be a great alternative to traditional Beef recipes, offering a unique flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Edith'S Squash Casserole contains roughly 545 calories, with 12g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (79% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 as a convenient substitute. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make Edith's Squash Casserole vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or tempeh, and ensure all other ingredients, such as cheese and breadcrumbs, are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
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).