Mom'S Squash Casserole
Mom's Squash Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender cooked squash with melted cheese and a crunchy cracker topping. Its savory flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks, appealing to both vegetable lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook squash and chopped onion until done.
- Drain and mash the cooked squash and onion mixture.
- Add grated cheese and margarine to the hot mixture and stir until melted.
- Add egg, milk, Ritz crackers, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered dish.
- Bake at 350°F until brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier consistency, consider using a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. If you don't have Ritz crackers, crushed saltines or panko breadcrumbs can work well as substitutes. Additionally, feel free to add herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor. This dish can also be made with zucchini for a different twist, making it suitable for various tastes in your family.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting squash casserole as a side dish at your next family gathering or barbecue. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it as a vegetarian main course, perhaps with a side of garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover squash casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven will help maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Squash Casserole contains roughly 819 calories, with 15g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (32% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 795mg per serving (35% 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 use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking. This helps remove excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery. Just follow the same cooking instructions as you would for fresh squash to ensure the best results.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure that any other ingredients, such as cheese and margarine, are also gluten-free to keep the entire dish compliant with a gluten-free diet.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using vegetables that require longer cooking, ensuring everything is tender before mixing with the other ingredients.
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).