Are you craving a dish that's both incredibly comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Alabama Squash Casserole recipe! This Southern classic is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and subtly sweet squash, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and surprisingly simple to whip up, even for beginner cooks. This healthy and delicious meal is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, offering a comforting taste of home that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium yellow squash, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 2 medium zucchini, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or similar)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Squash and Sauce
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole doesn't stick and allows for even baking.
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In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in 1/4 cup of butter until softened. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your casserole.
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In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. This creates the creamy base of our casserole.
Combining the Ingredients and Baking
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Season the milk sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that perfectly complements the squash.
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Add the sautéed onions and the sliced squash to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine. Make sure all the squash is coated in the creamy sauce.
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Pour the squash mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top evenly with the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This is where the cheesy goodness really shines!
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In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery cracker topping over the cheese.
Baking and Serving your Delicious Squash Casserole
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Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven.
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Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of cheeses, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, along with the cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Add some protein: Sauté some crumbled sausage or bacon with the onions for a heartier casserole.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat additions, but feel free to add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 20-25g Protein: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Alabama Squash Casserole is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a healthy meal option that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!