Fresh Squash Casserole
A creamy and cheesy squash casserole featuring tender zucchini or yellow squash mixed with onions, topped with sharp cheese and crunchy Ritz crackers. This comforting dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that appreciate classic Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Saute squash and onions with the margarine until tender. Drain.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and mix with milk, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked squash and onions with the egg mixture.
- Spoon the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Top with grated sharp cheese and crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to the egg mixture. You can substitute fresh squash with frozen if necessary, just make sure to thaw and drain them well. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños. This dish is also a great way to use up extra vegetables you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This Fresh Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It can also be served as a side dish for a summer barbecue or potluck. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad such as Snow Salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Squash Casserole contains roughly 222 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1386mg per serving (60% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, allowing for an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time if it's cold.
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).