Squash-Rice Casserole
A comforting squash and rice casserole with creamy mushroom or chicken soup, ideal for family dinners and versatile for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake, covered, at 375°F for 1 hour.
- Stir well after the first half hour of baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade cream of mushroom soup instead of canned. You can substitute brown rice for white rice for added nutrition, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, can enhance the creaminess. If you want a bit of heat, mix in some diced jalapenos, similar to what's found in Easy Jalapeno Dip.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It's also great alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a vegetarian option, serve with Light Date And Nut Bread for a well-rounded dinner that satisfies everyone around the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of broth or water before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash-Rice Casserole contains roughly 2034 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 210g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2107mg per serving (92% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sliced squash, zucchini or yellow squash can be great substitutes. Delicata or butternut squash will also work, but remember to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are tender.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Make sure it is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F 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).