Southern Summer Squash Casserole ๐๐ฅ๐ง
Overview:
This delightful Southern Summer Squash Casserole recipe is a true gem from the heart of Southern cooking. Bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast. With its blend of bacon, onions, summer squash, and creamy goodness, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s low in protein, low in cholesterol, and packed with healthy nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Let’s dive into the recipe and savor the taste of summer!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 46
- Fat Content: 1.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 1.4mg
- Sodium Content: 21.1mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 7.9g
- Fiber Content: 2.4g
- Sugar Content: 4.9g
- Protein Content: 2.8g
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of bacon
- 2 onions, diced
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Summer squash, thinly sliced
- Sour cream
- Cream cheese
- Bread crumbs
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Lightly brown the bacon in a large (3 qt) saucepan over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. |
| 2 | Stir in the diced onions and cook them with the bacon until they become translucent and clear, infusing the bacon with their sweet flavor. |
| 3 | Add the thinly sliced summer squash to the saucepan, mixing it well with the bacon and onions. Allow the squash to cook down, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and flavorful. |
| 4 | Grease a large casserole dish on all sides, ensuring that the delicious flavors of the casserole don’t stick to the pan. |
| 5 | Once the squash is cooked to perfection, use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer enough squash to cover the bottom of the greased casserole dish, creating a layer that’s about 2 inches thick. |
| 6 | Place 5 or 6 pats of butter on top of the squash layer, distributing them evenly for maximum flavor. You can also add several dollops of sour cream or cream cheese on top of the layer, with sour cream being the easier option to work with. |
| 7 | Sprinkle a generous amount of bread crumbs over the layer, adding a delightful crunch to the casserole. |
| 8 | Repeat the layering process for the second layer, using up the remaining squash mixture. However, for this layer, omit adding sour cream or cream cheese on top of the casserole. |
| 9 | Preheat your oven to 325ยฐF (165ยฐC) and place the prepared casserole, uncovered, into the oven. Let it bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling with irresistible flavors. |
| 10 | Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into generous portions and enjoy the wholesome goodness of Southern summer squash casserole! |
Recipe Notes:
- Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra herbs and spices for a flavor boost, or incorporate different types of cheese for added richness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.
- Serve this casserole as a side dish alongside your favorite main course, or enjoy it on its own for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts:
This Southern Summer Squash Casserole is a true Southern delicacy that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying good food with loved ones. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking up a taste of the South today! ๐๐ฅ๐ง
