Squash Casserole Recipe: A Thanksgiving and Holiday Staple
Looking for a delicious and easy side dish to impress your guests this Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy squash casserole recipe! This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a comforting and flavorful addition to your holiday spread. It's also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different herbs and cheeses.
What is Squash Casserole?
Squash casserole is a classic American side dish, typically featuring a creamy mixture of cooked squash (usually butternut or acorn), cheese, and often breadcrumbs or crackers for a crunchy topping. It’s baked until golden brown and bubbly, creating a warm and satisfying dish that complements many main courses, especially roasted meats.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a base for you to experiment and personalize, but here's what you'll need to get started:
- Butternut Squash: 1 medium, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 3 cups cooked)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 cups (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded (sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can experiment!)
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, nutmeg (to taste) - Don't be shy with the nutmeg! It really brings out the flavor of the squash. You might also consider adding sage, thyme, or rosemary for an extra herby kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Squash: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. You can roast the squash for extra depth of flavor, or simply boil until tender. Draining well is key to preventing a watery casserole.
- Sauté the Onion: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the beaten eggs, half of the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Gently fold in the cooked squash and sautéed onions.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Squash Casserole:
- Don't overcook the squash: Overcooked squash will become mushy. Aim for tender-but-not-falling-apart consistency.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese is a star ingredient, so splurge on a delicious cheddar or experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
- Get creative with seasonings: Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice little kick!
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This squash casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It's a perfect complement to roast turkey, ham, or other roasted meats. It also goes well with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and other classic Thanksgiving sides.
This squash casserole recipe is a surefire way to add a touch of warmth and deliciousness to your next holiday gathering. Enjoy!
