Brenda Gantt's Squash Casserole Recipe

Discover a flavorful Southern delight with Brenda Gantt squash casserole recipe. Comforting and easy to make. Perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.

Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole

• Publisher: Crisp Recipe
• Cuisine: Southern, American
• Category: Main Dish, Casserole
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250 calories

Brenda Gantt's squash casserole is a beloved Southern American dish that has gained popularity for its comforting flavors and simple yet delicious preparation. Named after Brenda Gantt, a well-known cook and food enthusiast, this casserole embodies the heartiness and warmth of traditional Southern cuisine.

The dish features sliced yellow squash and chopped onion that are gently cooked until tender. These vegetables are then combined with crushed Ritz crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, and seasonings. The resulting mixture is poured into a baking dish and baked until it's set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. The marriage of the tender squash, cheesy goodness, and buttery cracker topping creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

Brenda Gantt's squash casserole is often enjoyed as a comforting side dish at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday feasts. Its humble yet satisfying ingredients make it a popular choice for Southern comfort food enthusiasts. The casserole captures the essence of Southern cuisine, characterized by its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and a knack for turning simple components into something truly flavorful and heartwarming.

Whether you're a fan of Southern cooking or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy squash, Brenda Gantt's squash casserole is a recipe that encapsulates the warmth and hospitality of Southern kitchens, bringing people together over a dish that's both comforting and memorable.

Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey into the heart of Southern comfort with our Brenda Gantt squash casserole recipe. Unveil layers of flavor and tradition!

Ingredients

• 3 cups yellow squash, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pot, cook the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion in boiling water for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Drain well.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion with the crushed Ritz crackers and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the egg mixture to the squash mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
9. Enjoy your delicious Brenda Gantt squash casserole!

Recipe Video

Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole

This is a video about Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole.

Video Author: Cooking with Brenda Gantt

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 158 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole, Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole Recipe, Recipe

Servings

You can serve Brenda Gantt squash casserole as a delicious side dish or even as a main course. Here's how to present and serve it:

1. Portioning: Use a spatula or serving spoon to cut and portion the casserole into squares or wedges. This makes it easier to serve and ensures everyone gets an equal share.
2. Garnish: For a finishing touch, you can garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
3. Side Dish: Serve the squash casserole alongside other Southern favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, or sweet potato casserole. It complements these dishes well and adds a comforting element to the meal.
4. Main Course: If you're serving the casserole as a main course, consider pairing it with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables to create a balanced meal. It's hearty and filling on its own.
5. Family Gatherings: Brenda Gantt squash casserole is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals. Its comforting flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and it's easy to transport in a covered dish.
6. Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, you can use the microwave or reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the texture.

Serving Brenda Gantt squash casserole is all about enjoying the warmth and flavors of Southern cuisine. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Tips

1. Squash Preparation: Make sure to slice the yellow squash evenly to ensure even cooking. You can also opt to peel the squash if you prefer a smoother texture in your casserole.
2. Cracker Choice: While the recipe suggests Ritz crackers, you can experiment with different types of crackers for a unique flavor and texture. Some people enjoy using buttery crackers or even breadcrumbs.
3. Cheese Variation: Feel free to try different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses, to customize the flavor profile of the casserole.
4. Seasoning: Enhance the flavor by adding a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the egg and milk mixture.
5. Draining Squash: After cooking the squash and onions, be sure to drain them well to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a watery casserole.
6. Herb Garnish: If you enjoy fresh herbs, consider adding a handful of chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to the casserole mixture for an added layer of flavor.
7. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This is especially helpful for busy occasions. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you're starting with a chilled casserole.
8. Customize Ingredients: Don't hesitate to add other ingredients you like, such as cooked crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers, to create your unique version of the casserole.
9. Baking Dish Size: Use a baking dish that's appropriate for the amount of mixture. If you use a larger dish, the casserole might be shallower and require less baking time.
10. Testing for Doneness: To check if the casserole is fully cooked, insert a knife or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
11. Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This gives it time to set and makes it easier to portion.

Ingredient Substitutes

1. Yellow Squash: If you can't find yellow squash, you can use zucchini as a substitute. The flavor and texture will be slightly different, but it's still a great option.
2. Ritz Crackers: If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use other buttery crackers or even breadcrumbs as a replacement. Crushed cornflakes can also work well for a crunchy topping.
3. Cheddar Cheese: Swap cheddar cheese with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
4. Eggs: If you need an egg substitute due to allergies or dietary restrictions, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer product.
5. Milk: Any milk substitute like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can replace regular milk in this recipe.
6. Butter: For a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based butter or margarine. Alternatively, you can use olive oil or coconut oil.
7. Onion: If you're not a fan of onions, you can omit them or replace them with diced bell peppers or leeks for a different flavor.
8. Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
9. Fresh Herbs: If you're using fresh herbs for garnish, you can substitute them with dried herbs. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs.

Remarks

Elevate your table with the warmth of Brenda Gantt's squash casserole. A true taste of Southern hospitality, bringing joy to every bite. Happy cooking!