Squash Rotel
Creamy squash casserole with melted cheese, tomatoes, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sliced yellow squash and chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Add milk, mashed Ro-Tel tomatoes, salt, pepper, and grated cheese; stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese or sour cream along with the milk. You can substitute zucchini for yellow squash for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This recipe works well with various cheeses—try a blend for more depth. Browse more vegetarian recipes for additional inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty side with grilled meats or as a main dish with a fresh salad. Pair it with crusty bread or the Super Cheese Bread for a complete meal. It also makes a great potluck dish, so consider bringing it along to your next gathering. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Rotel contains roughly 155 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1426mg per serving (62% 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 tomatoes instead of Ro-Tel?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 2 cups of diced ripe tomatoes and add a bit of chopped green chili for flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as fresh tomatoes can be less tangy than canned. This will give your dish a fresh twist.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, using plant-based milk, and replacing the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of Squash Rotel while adhering to a vegan diet.
What can I serve with Squash Rotel?
This cheesy squash dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. You might also consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. For a comforting dessert, try serving it with the Rich White Cake to round out your meal deliciously.
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).