Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole Recipe

I’ve honed this Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole recipe to perfection, and it’s a dish that brings the warmth of Southern cooking to any table.

The layering of squash with a creamy mixture and cheese creates a melody of textures that’s simply irresistible.

I always recommend using sharp cheddar for that extra depth of flavor that really complements the squash.

A golden, buttery cracker topping is my final touch for a delightful crunch.

What I love about this squash casserole is its ability to transform simple ingredients into a comforting, homestyle dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

How to Make Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole

Brenda Gantt’s squash casserole is a comforting dish that brings a rich blend of creamy and savory flavors to your table.

This recipe combines tender yellow squash with a creamy sauce and melty cheese, baked to perfection for a delicious addition to any meal.

Ingredients List

• Yellow Squash: 4 cups sliced
• Stick of Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), divided
• Bell Pepper: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Onion: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Mayonnaise: 1 cup
• Cheese: 2 cups grated (Choose a type or blend of cheeses to suit your taste; cheddar, for example. For dietary preferences, select dairy-free cheese if needed.)
• Cassarole Dish: 9×13 inches, greased

Step-by-step process

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and slice 4 cups of yellow squash. Chop 1/2 cup of bell pepper for a pop of color and flavor and 1/2 cup of onion.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt half of the stick of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until they’re soft.

Step 3: Cook Squash

To the skillet, add the sliced squash and continue to cook until the squash is tender.

Step 4: Mix

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of mayonnaise and mix with the squash mixture until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble

Grease your casserole dish with the remaining butter. Spread the squash mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle 2 cups of grated cheese over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm alongside a green salad for a complete meal.

Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole Side Dishes

Green Salad

A vibrant green salad provides a crisp contrast to your Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole.

With a variety of fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine, you can add a pop of color and a refreshing crunch.

Consider enhancing the salad with toppings such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion slices for added flavor and texture.

Garlic Bread

Freshly baked garlic bread, with its golden-brown crust and soft center, makes for a delightful companion to the casserole.

The bold flavors of garlic and butter complement the cheesy, creamy squash, simultaneously offering a different mouthfeel and taste experience.

Steamed Broccoli

Steamed broccoli adds both color variety and a nutritious component to your meal.

Its mild, earthy taste and tender texture pair well with the casserole without overshadowing the main dish.

Sautéed Greens

Sautéed greens like kale or collard greens offer a nutritious side option that balances out the richness of the squash casserole.

Use olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt to lightly sauté the greens until just wilted, maintaining their nutritional integrity and vibrant color.

Rice Pilaf

A light and fluffy rice pilaf could serve as an excellent side to absorb the casserole’s creamy sauce.

The rice’s subtlety allows it to support the casserole’s bold flavors without competing with them.

Roasted Carrots

Roasted carrots bring in sweetness and a tender crunch.

When roasted, their natural sugars caramelize, providing a sweetness that enhances the savory aspects of the casserole.

Their bright orange hue also introduces another pop of color to your plate.

Ingredients Substitutes

When making Brenda Gantt’s squash casserole, you have the flexibility to tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences or to use what you have available.

Here are some suitable substitutes for the main ingredients.

Yellow Squash

If fresh yellow squash isn’t an option, frozen squash is a convenient alternative.

It’s readily available year-round, and there’s no need for chopping or lengthy prep times.

Thaw and drain well before use to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.

Type of Cheese

The traditional recipe may call for a specific type of cheese, such as cheddar.

However, you can use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Consider combining mozzarella for its melting quality with a sharper cheese like Parmesan to add a savory note.

Dairy-Free Cheese

For those with lactose intolerance or vegan dietary preferences, dairy-free cheese options are available.

Look for a non-dairy cheese that melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the casserole.

Brands vary in taste and melting characteristics, so you may need to experiment to find the one you prefer.

Remember, ingredient substitutions can alter the final taste and consistency of the dish, so you might need to adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly.

Your aim is to achieve a delicious casserole that aligns with your personal preferences or dietary needs.

How to Store Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole

When your Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole has reached that perfect golden brown crust and is filled with extra flavor, storing it correctly is critical to maintaining its quality.

Here’s how you can keep the casserole delicious for future meals.

Refrigerating Leftovers

After serving, allow your casserole to cool to room temperature.

Then, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors or moisture from the refrigerator.

Your casserole will stay fresh for 3-5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Freezing is an excellent option for extending the life of your squash casserole.

Make sure the casserole is completely cool before wrapping it in a layer of cling film, followed by foil to protect against freezer burn.

Label the container with the date, and you can enjoy your casserole within 2-3 months.

Reheating for Best Quality

To maintain extra flavor and texture, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight if it was frozen, then reheat it in the oven until it’s hot throughout.

Reheating in an oven rather than the microwave helps to preserve the top’s desired crispness.

By following these simple steps, you ensure that every bite of Brenda Gantt Squash Casserole will be as delicious as when it was first baked.

Remember to always check for freshness before consuming leftovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Excess Moisture

When preparing squash for your casserole, you must remove as much moisture as possible.

Squash holds water, which can result in a soggy dish. Drain the squash well after cooking and press it to remove excess liquid.

Overlooking Preheating Steps

Cooking starts with a preheated oven.

Your oven should reach the correct temperature before the casserole is baked.

Place the casserole into an oven that hasn’t been properly preheated, and it won’t achieve that golden brown top.

Rushing the Baking Time

The casserole needs a full 30-40 minutes in the oven.

Rush the process, and the ingredients won’t meld into a comforting dish with layers of flavor.

The cheese mixture requires the full time to develop a golden brown color and a crunchy texture.

Skimping on Cheese Mixture

The cheese mixture is critical for that Southern comfort food appeal.

Don’t cut corners here.

Use the full recommended amount of cheese to ensure a rich, comforting dish.

Forgetting Cream Texture

This casserole should have a smooth, creamy texture.

Undermixing the ingredients can lead to an inconsistent cream texture and affect the casserole’s overall flavor and comfort element.

Thoroughly mix to distribute the flavor.