Certainly! Here’s the delightful recipe for Applesauce and Squash Casserole, a fantastic twist on the traditional squash casserole that incorporates the lightness of applesauce for a truly delicious dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly tasty! With a prep time that includes cooking fresh squash, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or any occasion when you want a flavorful vegetable dish that’s ready in no time.
Applesauce and Squash Casserole
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 cups | Applesauce |
| 1/4 cup | Brown sugar |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/2 cup | Heavy cream |
| 1 | Squash |
| 1/8 tsp | Nutmeg |
| 6 tbsp | Butter, melted |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 1/2 cup | Bread crumbs |
| 1/2 cup | Almonds, chopped |
Instructions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, brown sugar, salt, heavy cream, grated squash, nutmeg, 4 tablespoons of melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
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Transfer the mixture into a buttered, 1 1/2 quart shallow casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
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In another bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and chopped almonds.
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Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the squash mixture in the casserole dish.
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At this point, you can choose to bake the casserole immediately or prepare it ahead of time.
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If baking immediately, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake the casserole, uncovered, for approximately 35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
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If preparing ahead of time, cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one day.
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When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions as mentioned above.
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Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled casserole for later use. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze.
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To bake from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake the covered casserole for 55-65 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
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Serve the Applesauce and Squash Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy its delightful flavors and comforting warmth.
This casserole is a perfect balance of sweetness from the applesauce and brown sugar, creaminess from the heavy cream and squash, and crunchiness from the almond-infused breadcrumb topping. It’s a wonderful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or as part of a vegetarian spread. With its combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire, perfect for any occasion from busy weeknights to special gatherings with family and friends. 🍲🥄🍽️
