Today, I will make Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole, a delightful dish showcasing the fresh flavors of squash in a creamy, cheesy casserole. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a comforting side dish for dinner. It’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
What is Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole?
Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole is a classic Southern dish that combines tender slices of squash with a rich, creamy sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. The casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it a delicious and comforting addition to any meal.
Other Pioneer Woman Recipes
- Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Corn Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Casserole
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Flavorful: The combination of squash, cheese, and a crispy topping is irresistible.
- Versatile: Can be served as a side dish or a main course.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for preparing in advance and baking when needed.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Nutrient-Rich: Squash is packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Comfort Food: Provides a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the squash: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain well.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole
- Grilled Chicken: Adds a lean protein that complements the creamy casserole.
- Steak: A hearty main course that pairs well with the vegetable side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Provides a variety of flavors and textures.
- Fresh Salad: Offers a light and refreshing contrast.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Add an extra layer of comfort to the meal.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole
- Use Fresh Squash: Fresh, firm squash provides the best texture and flavor.
- Drain Well: Ensure squash is well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
- Crispy Topping: Ensure the cracker topping is evenly distributed and crispy.
- Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasoning to enhance the flavors.
- Avoid Overcooking: Bake until just golden and bubbly to prevent a dry casserole.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest before serving for the best texture.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers for the topping.
- Cheese Swap: Try using Swiss or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
Storing Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole: Best Practices
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Label: Clearly label containers with the date for easy tracking.
- Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
Reheating Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole: Best Practices
- Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave Option: Heat individual servings in the microwave on medium power until warm.
- Cover for Moisture: Cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir during reheating to ensure even warming.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g
FAQs
How can I make Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole healthier?
To make Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole healthier, you can use low-fat cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and spinach, and use whole wheat or gluten-free crackers for the topping.
Can I prepare Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use different types of squash for Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole?
Yes, you can use different types of squash for this casserole. Yellow squash is traditional, but you can also use zucchini or a mix of both for added flavor and color.
How do I prevent my squash casserole from becoming watery?
To prevent the casserole from becoming watery, ensure that the squash is well-drained after boiling. Additionally, you can sprinkle the sliced squash with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes before cooking, then pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Final Words
Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole is a delightful, comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please any crowd. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. Enjoy this delicious casserole and make your mealtime special!
Other Yummy Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Ham And Potato Casserole
- Cracker Barrel Squash Casserole
Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pioneer Woman Squash Casserole is a classic Southern dish that combines tender slices of squash with a rich, creamy sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. The casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it a delicious and comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced yellow squash
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the squash: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the sliced squash and diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Drain well.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked squash and onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
