Bacon Topped Squash Casserole Recipe
Overview
This Bacon Topped Squash Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings out the best in squash. It combines tender, flavorful squash with the savory taste of crispy bacon and creamy cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for any family gathering, holiday meal, or a weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, this casserole is a great way to introduce squash to your family or friends, especially for those who are new to cooking with this versatile vegetable. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite!
Recipe Details
| Cook Time | Prep Time | Total Time | Recipe Category | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 minutes | 15 minutes | 55 minutes | Vegetable | American |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Calories | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 263.5 kcal | 15.8 g | 8.2 g | 66.4 mg | 783.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugar | Protein | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20.2 g | 1.9 g | 3.3 g | 10.4 g | 6 servings |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Squash (yellow or zucchini) | 1 medium |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Butter | 1 1/4 tbsp |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 2 cups |
| Bacon (cooked and crumbled) | 6 slices |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Squash and Onion:
Start by washing and peeling the squash, then cut it into cubes. Do the same with the onion. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the squash and onion. Boil or steam until the squash is fork-tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Once done, drain the vegetables thoroughly and set them aside. -
-
Mash the Squash:
Transfer the cooked squash and onion to a large bowl. Use a potato masher to mash them together until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix well. -
Add Flavorful Ingredients:
While the squash is still warm, add the butter, egg, and 1 cup of breadcrumbs to the mashed mixture. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. -
Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 1-quart casserole dish. Spoon the squash mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining breadcrumbs, and then sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top for added crunch and flavor. -
Bake the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, or as a side for a hearty holiday meal. Enjoy the savory richness of the bacon, the creamy squash, and the perfect balance of cheese.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Squash: Any type of summer squash works well for this casserole. Yellow squash is the most common choice, but zucchini can be used as an alternative.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. This is perfect for making ahead of time for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
- Bacon Tips: For an extra crispy topping, ensure that your bacon is cooked until fully crispy before crumbling it over the casserole. You can also use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Cheese Alternatives: While cheddar cheese gives this casserole a rich flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bacon Topped Squash Casserole is the perfect side dish that combines the natural sweetness of squash with savory elements like bacon and cheese. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t take much time but still delivers big flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a small family dinner or preparing for a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to get more vegetables on the table in a way that everyone will love!
With a simple list of ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a beautiful casserole that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. Make this Bacon Topped Squash Casserole your go-to vegetable side for all your upcoming meals. It’s destined to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!
