Party Squash
Party Squash is a savory casserole blending tender mashed squash with cheese, nuts, and vegetables, topped with crumbs and baked to golden perfection—perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the yellow squash, drain, and mash.
- Add sugar, mayonnaise, minced onion, chopped green pepper, chopped pecans, beaten egg, grated Cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the mashed squash and mix well.
- Place the mixture in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with bread or cracker crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if desired. When mashing the squash, ensure it's well-drained to prevent a watery dish. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile. This dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving for a quick and easy side.
Serving Suggestions
This Party Squash makes a delightful side dish for gatherings and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh green salad. It also complements dishes like Lida Crawford's Chicken Pie. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light pasta. Garnish with additional chopped pecans for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick snack. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Squash contains roughly 660 calories, with 11g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 820mg per serving (36% 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 other types of squash in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini or a mix of different squashes for a unique flavor. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different types of squash.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Party Squash is a vegetarian-friendly recipe. It includes no meat products, making it a great option for those following vegetarian diets.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the breadcrumbs and butter before baking to maintain the crispiness.
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).