Yellow Squash Casserole Recipe
This Yellow Squash Casserole is a nostalgic, heartwarming dish that was shared with me by Nell Haberstick, a dear former neighbor who is now living in a retirement home. Though she’s no longer nearby, we continue to cherish the memories of her culinary creations. This recipe is rich, flavorful, and perfect for any family meal or special occasion. With its combination of squash, carrots, pimientos, and a buttery dressing, this casserole is sure to become a favorite on your table. The comforting layers of savory vegetables, creamy sour cream, and crispy topping make it a delightful side dish that pairs well with everything from roasted meats to holiday dinners.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Recipe Category: Vegetable
Serves: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Yellow Squash | 1 1/2 lbs |
Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
Carrots (grated) | 4 medium |
Sour Cream | 1 cup |
Pimentos (chopped) | 1 can |
Mushrooms (sliced) | 1 can |
Butter | 1/2 cup |
Margarine | 1/4 cup |
Parmesan Cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Salt and Pepper (to taste) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 469.6 |
Total Fat | 40.1 g |
Saturated Fat | 23.4 g |
Cholesterol | 92.4 mg |
Sodium | 752.8 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 24.1 g |
Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g |
Sugars | 8.3 g |
Protein | 8.1 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Squash
Begin by bringing approximately 2 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the yellow squash and diced onion to the boiling water and cook for 3 minutes. After this, add the grated carrots to the pot and continue cooking for another 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet firm. Drain the mixture thoroughly and return it to the pot. -
Mash the Vegetables
Once the vegetables are drained, place them back in the pot over low heat for 2 minutes to remove any excess moisture. After this, coarsely mash the squash and carrots with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture. This step helps in reducing excess water and gives the casserole a better consistency. -
Combine with Other Ingredients
To the mashed vegetables, add the can of chopped pimentos and the sliced mushrooms. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined. Then, add the sour cream and stir again, ensuring the mixture is creamy and well-coated. -
Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, melt the butter and margarine together. Once melted, mix in your favorite dressing mix (a dry ranch or similar seasoning works wonderfully) and stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated. The dressing adds a rich flavor and creamy texture to the casserole. -
Assemble the Casserole
Grease or spray a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Press one-third of the prepared dressing mixture into the bottom of the casserole dish, forming a layer of seasoned goodness. Then, gently fold one-third of the dressing into the mashed squash and carrot mixture. Season the casserole with salt and pepper to taste, and fold everything together until well-combined. Transfer the squash mixture into the casserole dish, layering it over the dressing. -
Top the Casserole
If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. For extra flavor, combine the remaining dressing mix with the cheese before spreading it over the casserole. Cover the entire surface with the final third of the dressing mixture. -
Bake
Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 35 minutes or until the top of the casserole is golden brown and slightly crispy. If you’re preparing the dish ahead of time and refrigerating it, you may need to bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes (40-45 minutes total). -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best served warm and pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to a simple salad. Enjoy the flavors and memories with every bite!
Tips for Success
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Make-Ahead Option: If you’re looking to prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to allow for a longer baking time (40-45 minutes) if it’s cold from the fridge.
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Customize Your Vegetables: While yellow squash and carrots are the star ingredients, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrients.
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Crispier Top: For an extra crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the final layer of dressing mix before baking.
This Yellow Squash Casserole is perfect for any meal or holiday gathering, and it’s a great way to bring a little comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—a dish that will surely be requested again and again by family and friends.