Judy's Comforting Squash Casserole 🥒🧀

This delightful Squash Casserole is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this dish features a creamy texture complemented by the rich flavor of cheddar cheese. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate veggies into your meal without anyone noticing! Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. 🍞🥗

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 3 lbs cooked squash (yellow squash or zucchini works well!)
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery for a lighter option)
• 2 cups bread or cracker crumbs (try panko for extra crunch!)
• ½ lb cheddar cheese, grated (sharp cheddar adds wonderful flavor)
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• A few dashes of Tabasco sauce (for a hint of heat)
• 2 tablespoons butter or margarine (for added richness)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash: Begin by cooking the squash until tender. You can steam, boil, or roast it to bring out its natural sweetness.

2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onions, half of the cheese, a dash of Tabasco, and season with salt and pepper.

   🥄 Tip: You can sauté the onions in butter beforehand for a sweeter flavor!

3. Layer the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and top with the bread or cracker crumbs. Drizzle a little melted butter over the crumbs for added crispiness.

4. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

   🔥 Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning!

Variations

• Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable soup instead of cream of mushroom to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or more Tabasco sauce for an extra spicy version! 🌶️
• Herbed Twist: Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or sage to elevate the flavor profile.
• Quinoa Boost: Add a cup of cooked quinoa to the mixture for a protein-packed enhancement!

Serving Suggestion

This casserole is perfect as a standalone dish or as a side with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep!

Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of Judy's Squash Casserole—your family will be asking for seconds! 🤗🥘