Description
Squash Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender yellow squash with creamy plant-based cheese and smoky turkey bacon for a rich, satisfying meal. This easy-to-make casserole features sautéed aromatics deglazed with grape juice and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a cozy main or an impressive side, it is adaptable and uses simple ingredients for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 500g Yellow Squash, fresh and sliced
- 200g Plant-Based Cheese, creamy and mild
- 120g Smoked Turkey Bacon
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic (natural), minced
- 100g Breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural)
- 60ml Grape Juice
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (parsley or thyme), chopped
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Slice the yellow squash into even rounds and lightly salt them. Let sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat dry with a paper towel to prevent a watery casserole and concentrate the flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic (natural), cooking until soft and translucent. Add the smoked turkey bacon and cook until it crisps and releases smoky aromas.
- Deglaze and Combine: Pour grape juice into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Add the prepared squash and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), stirring gently to coat. Cook for a few minutes until the squash becomes just tender.
- Mix with Plant-Based Cheese: Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and fold in the plant-based cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, stirring until well combined for added brightness and creaminess.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Salting and draining the squash prevents sogginess in the casserole.
- Slice squash evenly for uniform cooking and texture.
- Ensure smoked turkey bacon is crisped well before mixing for texture contrast.
- Add fresh parsley or thyme just before baking to brighten flavors.
- Lightly toast breadcrumbs prior to topping to enhance crunchiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: squash casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, baked casserole, gluten free, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)