Josh And Emily'S Garden Fresh Squash Casserole
A creamy, cheesy squash casserole topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, perfect for family dinners and potlucks, highlighting fresh or frozen squash with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced squash in a baking dish; pour cream of mushroom soup over the squash.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper; stir around to cover the squash evenly.
- Spread Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Top with crumbled Ritz crackers.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
- If using frozen squash, cook it in a saucepan until soft, about 30 minutes on medium heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat Cheddar cheese without sacrificing flavor. Adding chopped onions or bell peppers can enhance the dish's flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese along with the crumbled Ritz crackers. For a more substantial meal, you can mix in cooked ground turkey or sausage.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also serves as a delicious side dish for grilled chicken or fish. For a comforting family dinner, serve it alongside roasted meats. Consider offering a slice of Casey'S Vinegar Pie for dessert to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Josh And Emily'S Garden Fresh Squash Casserole contains roughly 389 calories, with 13g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron.
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 different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor. Just be mindful of the melting qualities and saltiness of the cheese you choose.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. If freezing leftovers, ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in an airtight container.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure any added vegetables are pre-cooked or sliced thinly to ensure even cooking in the casserole.
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).