Savory Baked Summer Squash Casserole
Transform your garden's bountiful summer squash into a delectable baked casserole that even squash skeptics will love! This savory dish combines tender squash with the rich flavors of onion and buttery cracker crumbs, creating a satisfying and comforting meal that's perfect for any summer gathering. With a hint of sweetness from sugar and the heartiness of eggs, this casserole is not just easy to prepare but also an impressive dish that showcases the abundance of your garden harvest.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
summer squash
3 lbs (washed and cut into pieces)
onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Ritz crackers
1 cup (crumbed, divided)
eggs
2 (beaten)
butter
1/2 cup (divided)
sugar
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Wash the summer squash and cut it into small pieces.
3
Place the chopped squash in a large pot of boiling water. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain thoroughly and slightly mash the squash with a fork to maintain some texture.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, chopped onion, 1/2 cup of the crumbled Ritz crackers, beaten eggs, 1/4 cup of the melted butter, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
5
Pour the squash mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter with the remaining cracker crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
8
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your savory baked summer squash casserole!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Baked Summer Squash Casserole?
It is a savory dish combining tender summer squash, chopped onion, buttery Ritz cracker crumbs, and eggs for a comforting vegetable side dish.
How much summer squash do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 pounds of summer squash.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
You should preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How long should the squash be boiled?
Boil the squash for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until it is tender.
Do I need to mash the squash?
Yes, after draining, slightly mash the squash with a fork to maintain some texture.
What kind of crackers are used in the topping?
The recipe specifically uses Ritz crackers for their buttery flavor.
How many eggs are required?
You will need 2 beaten eggs for this casserole.
How much butter is needed in total?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of butter, divided for use in the mixture and the topping.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 tablespoon of sugar to add a hint of sweetness.
How much onion should be added?
Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion to the squash mixture.
How long does the casserole take to bake?
Bake the casserole for about 1 hour.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and crispy.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is tagged as a vegetarian recipe.
Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, zucchini is a type of summer squash and will work well in this casserole.
How should the crackers be divided?
Use 1/2 cup of crumbled crackers in the squash mixture and the remaining crumbs for the topping.
How should the butter be divided?
Use 1/4 cup of melted butter in the mixture and the remaining 1/4 cup mixed with the topping crumbs.
What is the preparation for the squash?
The squash should be washed and cut into small pieces before boiling.
Do I need to drain the squash after boiling?
Yes, it is important to drain the squash thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
What are the main seasonings used?
The dish is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.
What is the purpose of the eggs in the recipe?
The eggs act as a binding agent to help the casserole set while baking.
Can this be served as a main dish?
While often a side dish, its heartiness from eggs and crackers makes it a satisfying light meal.
What texture should the squash have before mixing?
The squash should be tender but slightly mashed so it still has some texture.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is described as an easy-to-prepare garden recipe.
What does the topping consist of?
The topping is a mixture of melted butter and the remaining cracker crumbs.
Should I let the casserole cool before serving?
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it firm up.
Is this a good way to use garden squash?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as a great way to use a bountiful garden harvest.