Eggplant Or Squash Casserole
A comforting baked casserole featuring tender squash or eggplant combined with cheese, eggs, and bread, perfect for a hearty vegetarian main or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook squash or eggplant and salt until tender.
- Mix all ingredients except 1/4 cup of cheese; mix well.
- Pour into a greased 1-quart baking dish.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or bell peppers with the onions before mixing them with the other ingredients. If you don't have sharp Cheddar cheese, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or a different cheese of your choice. You can also use zucchini if you prefer squash. To make this a heartier dish, add cooked ground meat or beans for protein.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as the Special Orange Salad, for a light meal. You can serve it alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a more filling option. It's a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a vegetarian main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Or Squash Casserole contains roughly 566 calories, with 10g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2394mg per serving (104% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it as directed, or bake from frozen, increasing the time by 10-15 minutes.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for each egg. Alternatively, a mixture of 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water can also be a good option to bind the ingredients together.
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).