Southern Comfort: Butternut Squash & Cheddar Casserole

This squash casserole recipe is a Southern delight! Butternut squash, cheddar, and a crispy panko topping? Yes, please! Ideas for Squash inside!

Southern Comfort: A Squash Casserole Recipe for Y'all

Ever crave a taste of home, something that just warms you from the inside out? honestly, that's what this squash casserole recipe is all about.

It's a modern take on a classic, and it's dead easy.

This isn't your grandma's boring squash casserole recipe though. i'm talking butternut squash for sweetness, sharp cheddar for zing, and a crunchy panko topping that'll have everyone begging for seconds.

The beauty about best summer squash recipes is how adaptable they are to whatever you got!

A Slice of Southern History

Squash casserole is southern through and through, a staple at potlucks and holiday feasts. think of it as a hug in a dish.

Don’t let this comfort food fool you, though. it is quite easy to create. it takes about an hour, and you can serve up to eight people.

Goodness in Every Bite

Butternut squash is packed with vitamin a, good for your eyes and immune system. this casserole is perfect for those weeknight light main dish recipes when you need some comfort food.

What makes it special? the crispy panko topping!

Gather Round, Let's Get Cookin’

Alright, now listen up. let’s talk ideas for squash . you'll need butternut squash, onion, garlic, heavy cream, cheddar, and panko.

Don't panic if you're short on an item! there are tons of twists you can put in, just be creative.

Golden squash recipes are all about having fun!

Next Up: Simple steps to a show stopping dish!

This recipe is easy enough, just roast the squash, mix it all together, and bake! but let’s keep it simple, shall we? don't overcook that squash, you want it tender, not mushy.

You can add some squash feta for extra flavor. let cool slightly before serving. trust me, it's worth the wait.

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Time to talk about what you'll actually need to make this amazing squash casserole recipe happen. Seriously, you're gonna love this!

Ingredients & Equipment: The Shopping List

Look, let's be real, a great squash casserole starts with quality ingredients. It's like building a house – you need a solid foundation, right?

Main Ingredients

• Butternut Squash: 2 pounds (900g) , peeled, seeded and cubed. This is where our golden squash recipes adventure starts. For the best flavor, look for squash that feels heavy for its size with a deep orange colour. Honestly, the richer the colour, the sweeter it’ll be. If butternut's not your thing, I've heard good things about gooseneck squash recipes !
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium , diced (about 1 cup).
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons .
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Full fat is the way to go here, trust me.
• Sour Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) .
• Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Again, full-fat mayo gives the best flavour.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon .
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon . Don't skip this! It adds a secret warmth.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g) , shredded, divided. Get a good quality cheddar, you know? The kind that actually tastes like cheese. If you are using squash cheese casserole consider a flavorful combination.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) . Panko gives a much better crunch than regular breadcrumbs.
• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g) , melted.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) , grated.
• Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Obvs!

Seasoning Notes

Think of these spices as the bandmates in your squash casserole's rock band. They need to play together harmoniously, yeah? This is where some ideas for squash take life!

• Essential Combo: Garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. This is the base.
• Flavor Enhancers: Dijon mustard adds a tang, and paprika gives a smoky hint.
• Quick Subs: If you don't have Dijon, a touch of yellow mustard will do in a pinch. Honestly? It is almost as light main dish recipes as you can get.

Equipment Needed

Right, gear time. You don’t need a whole professional kitchen, promise! Here's what you'll actually use.

• Baking Sheet: For roasting that butternut squash.
• Large Skillet: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) Baking Dish: This is where the magic happens.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the sauce and topping.
• Whisk: For a smooth, dreamy sauce. For alternative consider some oven squash recipes .

Honestly, if you're missing something, get creative! don't have a whisk? use a fork! no baking sheet? a roasting pan works fine.

The aim is to create fantastic best summer squash recipes and even experiment with corn and squash . let's face it! squash feta also fits well.

Right, now we know what we need, let's get cooking!

Alright, let's get this squash casserole recipe outlined! Time to don my chef's hat and think about a dish that's as comforting as a Sunday roast.

Southern Comfort: Creamy Butternut Squash & Cheddar Casserole

This updated squash casserole recipe takes southern comfort to the next level. think butternut squash, cheddar, and a panko breadcrumb crust.

It’s perfect as a thanksgiving side or weeknight meal. it's like a warm hug!

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic!

First, essential mise en place . Peel, seed, and cube 2 pounds of butternut squash. Dice one medium yellow onion. Mince two cloves of garlic. Shred 2 cups of sharp cheddar, divided.

For time-saving tips, chop your veg the day before. honestly, this is a lifesaver! i can't tell you how many times has that saved me! finally, remember safety! watch those fingers when chopping.

Step-by-Step: Casserole Creation

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 30 minutes , until tender.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened, maybe 5 minutes .
3. Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, Dijon, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
4. Combine & Bake: Add roasted squash and aromatics to the sauce. Stir in half the cheddar. Pour into a greased dish.
5. Make the Topping: Combine 1/2 cup panko, melted butter, parmesan and paprika.
6. Top & Bake: Sprinkle remaining cheddar over the casserole, then top with the panko. Bake for 15 minutes until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach at least 165° F ( 74° C) .
7. Cool Slightly: Let it cool for 10- 15 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips: Casserole Confessions

Don't overcook the squash. slightly undercooking ensures it doesn't turn to mush. high-quality cheddar cheese really makes the dish sing.

For extra crispy panko, lightly toast them in a dry pan before adding butter.

A common mistake? Watery casserole. Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the squash after roasting.

Got leftovers? They're great the next day.

Ideas for squash are endless but this is one of my favorite recipes . this squash cheese casserole is a winner.

It’s not just one of the best summer squash recipes , it's a year-round crowd-pleaser. looking for light main dish recipes ? this can be one!

Oh my gosh, you have to try this!

Alright, let's chat about some Recipe Notes for this absolutely divine squash casserole recipe! I honestly think you'll love it.

Recipe Notes: Making Your Squash Casserole Shine

Let's face it; recipes are just a starting point. Knowing a few extra tricks can elevate your squash casserole recipe from good to amazing . These Ideas For Squash will help!

Serving Suggestions: Plating and Perfect Partners

Presentation matters, doesn't it? you could use a nice earthenware dish for that rustic, homey feel. if you're feeling fancy, consider individual ramekins.

As for sides, i think this casserole pairs perfectly with some roast chicken. or, for a light main dish recipe , it's fab alongside a fresh green salad.

Think simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. and a crisp glass of pinot grigio? absolute perfection!

Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers? if you're lucky enough to have any! pop them in an airtight container and they'll be grand in the fridge for 3-4 days.

You can freeze it too, but the texture might change a bit. thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) until heated through.

Variations: Mix It Up!

Fancy a change? to make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. easy peasy! for a lighter version, try using half greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Best summer squash recipes often have substitutions. oven squash recipes are so versatile!. corn and squash can be added for sweetness.

Or, add squash cheese casserole with swiss and gouda. also consider gooseneck squash recipes for an unusual twist.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

This casserole packs a nutritional punch! you're getting a good dose of vitamin a from the golden squash recipes , plus some fiber.

Okay, it's not exactly a health food. but everything in moderation, right? the squash feta addition also provides good value.

Just consider this as a treat and enjoy!

Honestly, whether you follow the recipe to the letter or get creative with your own twist, i'm sure it will turn out fab! don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this squash casserole recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (up to the point of baking) a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. Think of it as your Mary Berry-esque time-saving trick!

How do I prevent my squash casserole from being watery?

Watery squash casserole is a common problem, but easily solved! The key is to remove excess moisture from the squash. If you're using frozen squash, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible. For fresh squash, roasting it slightly before adding it to the casserole can also help evaporate some of the moisture and intensify the flavour, just like getting a lovely caramelization on your Sunday roast.

What are some good substitutions for cheddar cheese in this squash casserole?

Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to mix it up! Gruyere offers a nutty and slightly sweet flavour, while Monterey Jack is a milder, melty option. You could also use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavour profile. Experimenting is half the fun – it's like finding the perfect biscuit to dunk in your tea!

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this squash casserole recipe?

Yes, it's very easy to make this vegetarian! The main thing to look for is to use a vegetarian-friendly Parmesan cheese in the panko topping as some Parmesan cheeses use animal rennet. Otherwise, the recipe is naturally vegetarian. You could even add some extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition!

How long does leftover squash casserole last in the fridge?

Properly stored, your leftover squash casserole will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. It's great for a quick lunch – much better than a soggy sandwich!

Can I freeze this squash casserole?

Freezing is possible, but the texture might change slightly due to the dairy content. For best results, freeze the casserole before baking it. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. Be aware that the texture might be a little less creamy after thawing, but it will still taste delicious!

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