Ritz Squash Casserole
A creamy squash casserole topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs, cheesy and flavorful, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the margarine and crushed Ritz crackers, setting aside half for topping.
- Combine the stewed squash, chopped onion, milk, beaten egg, grated cheese, and the remaining cracker mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the reserved cracker crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F until the casserole is browned and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you're out of margarine, you can substitute with butter or a plant-based alternative. Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist. Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley can enhance the dish's aroma and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed green vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks, complementing main courses like ham or turkey.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Squash Casserole contains roughly 848 calories, with 12g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% 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 fresh squash instead of stewed squash?
Yes, you can use fresh squash! Just slice and sauté it until tender before adding it to the casserole mixture. This will add a delightful freshness and texture to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Make sure to check the labels for other ingredients like cheese and margarine to ensure they're gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble it in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming 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).