Are you craving a warm, comforting dish that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This squash casserole recipe with Ritz crackers is a family favorite, perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings. It's a delightful blend of sweet butternut squash, savory herbs, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping that will leave everyone wanting more. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Get ready to experience a truly delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, finely crushed
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil or steam the cubed butternut squash until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can easily check for doneness with a fork; it should pierce easily. Once cooked, drain the squash well.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the cooked butternut squash until mostly smooth. Stir in the melted butter, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, sage, and nutmeg. Mix until everything is well combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 3: Assembling and Baking the Casserole
Pour the squash mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the squash mixture.
- Add some crunch: Incorporate toasted pecans or walnuts into the casserole for added texture.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly!
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy squash casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of sweet squash and savory cheese, topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, creates a flavor profile that's simply irresistible. Enjoy this delicious and healthy addition to your favorite food recipes! It’s a perfect example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. This simple recipe offers a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and create wonderful quick dinner ideas. We hope this becomes one of your best recipes!