Are you craving a taste of the South? Then look no further! This Paula Deen-inspired squash casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights and holiday gatherings. It's unbelievably creamy, cheesy, and packed with the sweet flavor of butternut squash. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks, but delicious enough to impress seasoned chefs. Get ready to experience a truly delightful homemade dish that’s both healthy and satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (you can substitute with homemade butternut squash puree for an even richer flavor)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or your favorite buttery cracker)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole won't stick.
Mix the magic: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cream of mushroom soup, milk, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. This is where the magic happens; make sure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed for an even flavor distribution.
Cheese it up: Stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.
Ready for the oven: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
The crunchy topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy interior.
Bake to perfection: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the cracker topping. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. The top should be beautifully browned and slightly crispy.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Squash Casserole:
- Homemade Squash Puree: For an even more intense squash flavor, roast your own butternut squash, then puree it. This is a slightly more time-consuming option but well worth the effort!
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend would all be delicious.
Variations:
- Spicy Squash Casserole: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Bacon-Cheddar Squash Casserole: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before baking for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Fat: Approximately 18-22g Protein: Approximately 8-10g Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Paula Deen-inspired squash casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a quick dinner idea, a delicious dish perfect for any occasion, and a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Enjoy this taste of Southern comfort!