Squash Elegant
A creamy, cheesy squash casserole featuring tender squash, water chestnuts, pimientos, and a flavorful stuffing topping, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the squash.
- Drain and slice the water chestnuts.
- Simmer the squash and chopped onions until tender.
- In a bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, water chestnuts, and pimientos.
- Drain the cooked squash and fold it into the soup mixture.
- Melt the margarine and drizzle it over the corn bread stuffing mix.
- Place half of the stuffing in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Add the squash mixture over the stuffing.
- Top with the remaining stuffing.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the cheese over the casserole.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or basil to enhance the flavor. If you have leftover cooked squash, feel free to use that instead of raw. This recipe can easily be customized with different cheese varieties, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with roasted chicken for a heartier option. It also complements grilled meats beautifully. For a comforting touch, serve with warm cornbread or biscuits. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and can be a delightful addition to your collection of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it heats evenly without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Elegant contains roughly 737 calories, with 9g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1927mg per serving (84% 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 a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute with butternut or acorn squash for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the squash's firmness.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or a homemade vegetable sauce. Ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly if needed, and you have a delicious meat-free version.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold 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).