Lou'S Crunchy Squash Casserole
Lou'S Crunchy Squash Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish combining tender yellow squash with savory bacon, melted cheddar, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sliced yellow squash, chopped onions, sour cream, salt, basil, and pepper in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs and shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Drizzle melted margarine over the cheese and bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, sauté the onions before mixing them into the casserole. If you're short on yellow squash, zucchini can be a great substitute. Consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy twist. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can also enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a wonderful side dish for grilled meats or pairs beautifully with Orange Glazed Pork Chops. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables like Baked Green Beans for a complete meal. It’s also great for brunch or potlucks, as it can be made ahead of time.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lou'S Crunchy Squash Casserole contains roughly 329 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1749mg per serving (76% 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, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with cooked mushrooms or smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, turkey bacon or sausage can also work well if you prefer a leaner meat option.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges. A toothpick or knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If you like a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
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).