It’s always exciting to try out new dishes, especially when they come from renowned chefs like Brenda Gantt. This squash casserole recipe is a true representation of her delicious and flavorful cooking style.
With a combination of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish will elevate any dinner party or weeknight meal. The creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy topping make it a crowd-pleaser, and you won’t believe how simple it is to make.
So, let’s get started on creating this mouth-watering Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole! So if you want to impress your dinner guests with something extra special, keep reading this article for step-by-step directions.
What is Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole?
Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole is a classic Southern dish made with yellow squash, eggs, cheddar cheese, and Ritz crackers. It’s a savory and creamy casserole that is perfect for any occasion.
This is a staple in Brenda Gantt’s cooking repertoire and has been shared with many families across the South. The combination of flavors and textures in this casserole is what makes it stand out from other squash casseroles.
The creamy squash mixture pairs perfectly with the crispy Ritz cracker topping, giving each bite a burst of deliciousness. It’s a comfort food that will leave you wanting more!
Why You’ll Love this Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole?
This squash casserole is a must-try for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The result is a delicious dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Secondly, the combination of flavors in this casserole is unbeatable. The creamy and savory squash mixture paired with the buttery and crispy topping is a match made in heaven. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
Lastly, this casserole can easily be customized to fit your dietary needs or preferences. You can use zucchini instead of yellow squash, swap out regular milk for almond milk, or even add in some protein like chicken or bacon for a heartier dish. The possibilities are endless with this.
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Ingredients
- Eggs: This calls for two beaten eggs, which will help bind the casserole together.
- Cheddar Cheese: The cheese adds a delicious creamy and tangy flavor to the casserole.
- Butter: For added richness, use melted butter in this recipe.
- Milk: Milk is used to create a creamy texture in the casserole.
- Salt and Pepper: To enhance the flavor of the casserole, add salt and pepper to taste.
- Yellow Squash: This recipe calls for three cups of sliced yellow squash. You can also use zucchini as a substitute.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds a delicious savory flavor to the casserole.
- Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers are used in this recipe to create a crispy and buttery topping.
Directions
Step 1
Prepare the Squash
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion.
- Add in the beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
Step 2
Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pour the squash mixture evenly.
- Mix the melted butter with the crackers.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter mix on top to cover the entire surface.
Step 3
Bake and Serve
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole!
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in some herbs like thyme or parsley to the squash mixture before baking.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after it has finished baking.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ideas for serving this Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole:
- Serve as a side dish with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or steak.
- Have it as a main dish paired with a fresh salad on the side.
- Bring it to a potluck or family gathering and impress everyone with your cooking skills.
What other substitute can I use in Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole?
If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to switch things up, here are a few substitutes you can try:
- Zucchini instead of yellow squash.
- Almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
- Crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers for the topping.
Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 4 eggs beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups yellow squash sliced
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers crushed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine the sliced yellow squash and chopped onion. Add in the beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Gently mix all ingredients together until they are well combined.
- Take a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the squash mixture evenly. Make sure to spread it out evenly for consistency. Now, mix the melted butter with the crackers and cover the entire surface. This will add a crispy and buttery texture to your casserole.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in some herbs like thyme or parsley to the squash mixture before baking.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after it has finished baking.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the squash mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the topping and bake when you’re ready to serve.
Is this healthy?
While this casserole may not be the healthiest dish, you can make some adjustments to fit your dietary needs. Use low-fat cheese, almond milk, and whole wheat Ritz crackers for a healthier version.
Is this vegan?
No, this casserole contains eggs and cheese, making it not suitable for a vegan diet. However, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the eggs or using an egg substitute and using plant-based cheese.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading this article and learning all about Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole! We hope you give this a try and enjoy it as much as we do.
Remember, you can always make adjustments to fit your preferences or dietary needs. So, go ahead and impress your dinner guests with this delicious casserole at your next gathering. Please share this article with your friends and family.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
I’ve made variations of this squash casserole recipe for years. One difference I’ve always done, however, is to mix the melted butter with the crackers that go on top and then spread it. I wasn’t sure if this recipe just omitted that instruction or if they actually meant to place the crackers dry on top of the casserole.
No, It was a typo. Thanks for pointing that out! 😊 You’re absolutely right—it’s best to mix the melted butter with the crackers before spreading them on top. It adds that perfect crunchy, buttery finish! Glad you’ve been enjoying your version of the recipe for years, and thanks for catching that typo. Happy cooking! 🧑🍳