Squash casserole is a classic comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and holiday gatherings. This recipe elevates the traditional version by incorporating savory ground beef, adding a depth of flavor and heartier texture that's sure to please everyone. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a crowd-pleasing result.
What Makes This Squash Casserole Unique?
This recipe stands out from the crowd with its addition of ground beef, transforming a typically vegetarian side dish into a complete and satisfying meal. The richness of the beef complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully, creating a balanced and unforgettable flavor profile. We'll also explore variations and tips to ensure your casserole is the star of the show!
What Kind of Squash Should I Use?
The best squash for this recipe is butternut squash. Its naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture work exceptionally well with the ground beef and other ingredients. However, you can also experiment with other winter squashes like acorn squash or kabocha squash, just be aware that the flavor profile might slightly change.
How to Make the Best Squash Casserole with Ground Beef?
Here's a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect squash casserole:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
Instructions:
- Prepare the Squash: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil or roast the butternut squash cubes until tender (approximately 20-25 minutes). You can also microwave the squash for quicker cooking.
- Brown the Beef: While the squash is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked squash, ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme. Mix well.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What Are Some Variations on This Recipe?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack. Adding a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or chopped pecans would provide extra texture and flavor. You can also use different herbs and spices to customize the dish to your liking.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Squash Casserole with Ground Beef?
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Is Squash Casserole Healthy?
Squash casserole, while delicious, is not typically considered a health food due to the high fat content from the cheese and cream of mushroom soup. However, using low-fat or reduced-fat alternatives can help to reduce the overall fat and calorie content. Butternut squash itself is rich in vitamins and nutrients, making this dish a somewhat balanced option.
Can I Freeze Squash Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze leftover squash casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
