New Orleans Squash Casserole
A hearty New Orleans squash casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender squash, creamy cheese, and savory onions, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with salt and pepper in a skillet.
- Drain off the grease from the beef.
- Boil the squash until tender and drain.
- Beat the eggs and cream together in a bowl.
- Mix the egg mixture with the cooked squash.
- Stir in the cooked meat and chopped onions into the squash mixture.
- Add the sour cream and chopped water chestnuts to the mixture.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of cheese to the mixture and stir well.
- Layer the meat mixture and cheese in a large casserole dish, starting with the meat.
- Top the casserole with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or bell peppers with the onions. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. If you're short on time, frozen squash can be used instead of fresh. Adjust the cheese type to your preference; sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice kick to the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This New Orleans Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks, complementing hearty American recipes like Mouth Watering Chili or Sweet-N-Hot Meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating, covering the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Orleans Squash Casserole contains roughly 341 calories, with 15g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1266mg per serving (55% 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. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative, providing a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, a mixture of cream cheese and milk can also work well to achieve a creamy texture in the casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, remove the foil and bake at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through.
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).