Nannies Squash Casserole
Creamy, comforting, and delightfully simple, Nannies Squash Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Medium Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Casserole Dish
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced thin
- 1 medium zucchini squash, sliced thin
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
Binders and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted or softened
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
Toppings
- 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables: wash the yellow squash and zucchini and slice them thin. Peel and slice the carrot. Chop the onion into small pieces so it cooks evenly.
- In a medium pot, combine the sliced yellow squash, sliced zucchini, chopped onion, and sliced carrot. Add enough water to the pot to just cover the vegetables.
- Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly and cook for 6 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but not falling apart.
- Drain the vegetables very well using a colander or sieve. Let them sit a minute to release excess steam and moisture so your casserole won’t be watery.
- Mash the drained vegetable mixture in a bowl until mostly smooth but with a little texture remaining. You can use a potato masher or a fork.
- Stir in the 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and the beaten large egg. Mix thoroughly so the egg acts as a binder.
- Add the 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs and 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese if using. Stir until evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 1.5 quart casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top begins to brown and the casserole is set in the center. If you like a darker crust, place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes while watching carefully.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to firm up slightly.
Notes
Drain thoroughly to avoid a soggy casserole. Adjust the texture by mashing more for creaminess or leaving chunks for a rustic bite. Fresh breadcrumbs provide the best texture.