Mabel'S Squash Casserole
A comforting squash casserole blending tender summer squash, savory ground beef, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with cheese or crackers—perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the squash until tender; drain.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion; drain off excess fat.
- Combine the cooked squash, ground beef, onion, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheese or cracker crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F until lightly browned, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative. Adding shredded carrots or zucchini can enhance the flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. Using homemade cream of mushroom soup can elevate the dish, providing a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lee'S Meatballs for a hearty family dinner. For a comforting side, consider garlic bread or buttery cornbread. This dish also makes for great potluck contributions, as it is easy to transport and serve.
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 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are warmed evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mabel'S Squash Casserole contains roughly 114 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if baking from 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).