Our holiday table wouldn’t be complete without the classic Cheesy Squash Casserole from yesteryear. A beloved make-ahead side dish, this old-school favorite is adored by all. What sets it apart? Not only is it irresistibly delicious, but it’s also delightfully simple to prepare—no need for any cream-of-whatever soup! Packed with wholesome ingredients like squash, onion, butter, eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar, swiss, thyme, salt, pepper, and topped with a crunchy mix of crushed Ritz crackers and parmesan. It’s a timeless crowd-pleaser for every festive occasion.

What is Squash Casserole?

Squash casserole is a dish that typically features squash, such as yellow squash or zucchini, mixed with other ingredients and baked in a casserole dish. The exact ingredients and preparation methods can vary, but common components include sliced or diced squash, onions, cheese, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings. Some recipes may also include ingredients like eggs, sour cream, or condensed soup to create a creamy texture.

The casserole is often baked until the ingredients are tender and the top is golden brown. Squash casserole is a popular dish, especially during the summer when squash is abundant, and it serves as a flavorful and comforting side dish. It’s a versatile dish, and different regions or households may have their own variations on the recipe.

Tips for the Best Squash Casserole

Creating the best squash casserole involves a combination of choosing fresh ingredients, balancing flavors, and using proper cooking techniques. Here are some tips to enhance your squash casserole:

1. Choose Fresh Squash: Use fresh, firm, and vibrant-colored squash. Whether you prefer yellow squash, zucchini, or a mix, choose ones that are free from blemishes and feel heavy for their size.
2. Properly Prep and Cut: Wash and thoroughly dry the squash before cutting. Trim the ends and cut the squash into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking.
3. Add Aromatic Ingredients: Enhance flavor by incorporating aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic, or shallots. Sautéing these before mixing them into the casserole can deepen their flavors.
4. Experiment with Cheese: Cheese adds a delicious richness to the casserole. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan are popular choices. Experiment with different types to find your favorite combination.
5. Include Herbs and Spices: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil can add depth to the casserole. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and consider a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
6. Balance the Creaminess: If your recipe includes a creamy element like sour cream, mayonnaise, or condensed soup, use it judiciously. You want a balance that enhances the texture without overwhelming the dish.
7. Consider a Crunchy Topping: A crispy topping can add a delightful contrast. Consider sprinkling breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even fried onions on top before baking.
8. Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake the casserole until it’s golden brown on top and the squash is tender. Be mindful not to overcook, as this can lead to mushy squash.
9. Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the flavors meld, and it makes serving easier.
10. Customize to Taste: Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to your liking. Add ingredients you enjoy, and feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or spices until you find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

How To Make Squash Casserole

Here’s a basic recipe for making a delicious squash casserole. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and quantities based on your preferences.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs yellow squash, sliced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), chopped (optional)
• Cooking spray for greasing the casserole dish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Squash: Wash the squash thoroughly, trim the ends, and slice it into uniform pieces.
3. Cook the Squash: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the squash until tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well.
4. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, sautéed onions and garlic, grated cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs if using. Mix well.
6. Season: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
7. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a casserole dish with cooking spray. Transfer the squash mixture to the dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Top with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the squash mixture. This will add a crispy texture to the casserole.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
10. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or experimenting with different types of cheese. Enjoy your homemade squash casserole!

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Squash Casserole Ingredients

Here is a list of ingredients for a basic squash casserole. You can customize the recipe based on your preferences:

• 2 lbs yellow squash or zucchini, sliced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), chopped (optional)
• Cooking spray for greasing the casserole dish

Feel free to adjust quantities, add additional ingredients like fresh herbs or spices, and experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Making Squash Casserole Ahead of Time

Making squash casserole ahead of time is a convenient option, especially if you want to save time on the day you plan to serve it. Here’s a guide on how to prepare and store squash casserole in advance:

Steps:

1. Prepare the Casserole: Follow your preferred squash casserole recipe until the point just before baking.
2. Cool the Casserole Mixture: Allow the squash mixture to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the casserole dish. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the casserole soggy.
3. Assemble in a Baking Dish: Transfer the cooled squash mixture into the casserole dish you plan to bake it in.
4. Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator.
5. Store Overnight: You can store the assembled but unbaked casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the dish convenient for baking the next day.
6. Bake When Ready: When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven to the specified temperature in your recipe. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator while the oven is preheating.
7. Bake as Directed: Follow the original baking instructions from your recipe. It might take a few extra minutes if the casserole is cold from the fridge.
8. Check for Doneness: Ensure the casserole is heated through, and the top is golden brown. Use a knife to check if the center is hot.
9. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Storage Time: It’s generally safe to refrigerate an unbaked squash casserole for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing: While many casseroles can be frozen, squash casseroles with dairy (like sour cream and mayonnaise) may not freeze and reheat well due to potential changes in texture.

Always check your specific recipe for any additional guidance on make-ahead options. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious squash casserole ready to bake whenever you need it!

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Southern Living Community Tips

Southern Living is a lifestyle magazine that often features content related to Southern culture, food, and living. If you’re referring to tips from the Southern Living community, it’s likely advice shared by individuals who engage with the magazine’s content. Here are some general tips that are often associated with Southern living:

1. Hospitality: Southerners are known for their warm hospitality. Offering a glass of sweet tea, a warm welcome, and making guests feel at home is a common practice.
2. Southern Cuisine: Embrace traditional Southern recipes, such as biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. Many Southern Living recipes are beloved for their classic flavors.
3. Front Porch Living: Southern homes often feature front porches. Spending time on the porch, sipping sweet tea, and chatting with neighbors is a cherished tradition.
4. Gardening: Gardening is a popular activity. Many Southerners take pride in their gardens, growing everything from flowers to vegetables.
5. Seasonal Decor: Southern Living often features seasonal decorating ideas. Embrace the changing seasons by incorporating seasonal decor into your home.
6. Community Involvement: Many Southern communities value close-knit relationships. Involvement in local events, churches, and community gatherings is common.
7. Family Traditions: Southern families often have long-standing traditions. Whether it’s a specific dish for holidays or an annual family reunion, traditions play a significant role.
8. Respect for Elders: There’s often a strong emphasis on respecting elders and valuing the wisdom that comes with age.
9. Celebrating Heritage: Many Southerners take pride in their heritage. Whether it’s through family stories, recipes passed down through generations, or celebrating cultural events, heritage is important.
10. Outdoor Activities: Given the warmer climate in the South, outdoor activities like barbecues, picnics, and outdoor sports are common.

Remember, these are generalizations, and Southern culture is diverse, with variations across states and communities. For the most current and region-specific tips, it would be beneficial to engage directly with the Southern Living community, either through their website, forums, or social media channels.

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