Oma'S Squash Casserole
Oma's Squash Casserole is a comforting dish with tender cooked squash, creamy chicken soup, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Its savory flavors and crispy texture make it perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering a nostalgic taste of Southern home cooking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped onion and cream of chicken soup well in a bowl.
- Add eggs to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Add cooked and mashed squash to the mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in sugar into the squash mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and crushed Ritz crackers.
- Melt butter and pour evenly over the top.
- Cover the casserole dish and bake at 325°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half or sour cream in place of some of the cream of chicken soup. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the cream soup with a mushroom or vegetable-based variety. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. Using different types of squash, such as zucchini or butternut, can provide a unique twist on the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Oma's Squash Casserole makes a delightful side dish at family gatherings or holiday meals. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be served alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option. You could also serve it alongside Peggy'S Chicken Liver Pate for a varied buffet-style spread, enhancing your meal with complementary flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oma'S Squash Casserole contains roughly 558 calories, with 9g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 868mg per serving (38% 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 up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).