White Squash Casserole
A comforting casserole featuring tender grated squash and onion combined with crushed saltines and baked to golden perfection, ideal for family dinners or comforting side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the squash on a coarse grater.
- Grate the onion on a medium grater.
- Mix all ingredients together to the consistency of custard.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Put the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the dried sweet basil with fresh herbs, such as thyme or oregano. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, crushed gluten-free crackers can replace saltines. Ensure the squash is firm and not overly ripe for the best texture. You can also experiment by adding cheese or sautéed vegetables to enhance the dish, similar to how ingredients are layered in Best Fluffy Pancakes.
Serving Suggestions
This White Squash Casserole pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side to a fresh salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Broccoli With Sour Cream for a delicious vegetable medley. For a more substantial meal, it can be complemented with crusty bread or a light pasta dish. Explore more vegetarian recipes to create a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be aware this may alter the texture slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Squash Casserole contains roughly 332 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1972mg per serving (86% 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 casserole?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini or yellow squash for the white squash in this recipe. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still yield a delicious casserole. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the moisture content of the squash used.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pour it into a buttered dish and bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for gatherings or busy weeknights.
How can I add more protein to this casserole?
To boost protein, consider adding cooked ground turkey or chicken to the mixture before baking. Alternatively, incorporating eggs can help bind the casserole while adding protein. For a vegetarian option, you might also add cooked lentils for a hearty twist.
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).