Tasty Healthy 3 Ingredient Squash Casserole You’ll Love

Craving a wholesome, easy side dish? A healthy 3 ingredient squash casserole is the perfect choice. It’s simple, nutritious, and packed with flavor.

You only need squash, eggs, and cheese to make this dish. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s ready in about 45 minutes.

This article will guide you through creating this delicious casserole. You’ll find clear steps, tips, and ways to customize it. Let’s get cooking with this healthy recipe.

Why This Casserole Stands Out

A healthy 3 ingredient squash casserole is all about simplicity. It uses minimal ingredients for maximum flavor. Even beginner cooks can master it.

This dish is naturally low-carb and gluten-free. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies without heavy ingredients. Yet, it’s comforting and satisfying.

It’s also budget-friendly and versatile. Use fresh or frozen squash to make it year-round. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things minimal yet delicious. Here are the three core ingredients. Each contributes to the casserole’s texture and taste.

• Yellow Squash: Fresh or frozen, it’s the star of the dish. It provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• Eggs: Act as a binder to hold the casserole together. They add protein and richness.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds creamy, savory flavor. Shredded cheese melts beautifully into the dish.

These ingredients are easy to find and affordable. They create a wholesome base for a tasty casserole.

Equipment for Easy Prep

You don’t need fancy tools for this recipe. A knife and cutting board are enough for prepping squash. A mixing bowl combines the ingredients.

A 9×9-inch baking dish is ideal for baking. Grease it lightly or use non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

An oven is essential for cooking. A grater is handy if you’re shredding cheese yourself.

The Easiest Healthy 3 Ingredient Squash Casserole Recipe

Here’s how to make a healthy 3 ingredient squash casserole. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Follow these steps for a delicious result every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Prep the Squash

Wash 4-5 medium yellow squash and slice them thinly. If using frozen, thaw and drain well. Aim for about 4 cups of sliced squash.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Add the sliced squash and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if desired.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden and set. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a side or main dish.

Tips for Perfect Casserole

Use fresh squash for the best texture. If using frozen, drain thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole. Pat dry with a towel if needed.

Don’t overmix the ingredients. Gently combine to keep the squash slices intact. This ensures a nice texture in the final dish.

Check doneness by inserting a knife. It should come out clean when the casserole is fully cooked.

Variations to Try

This healthy 3 ingredient squash casserole is easy to customize. Add a handful of chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for freshness. Mix them in with the cheese.

For extra flavor, stir in a pinch of garlic powder or paprika. These add depth without overpowering the dish.

Want more veggies? Mix in ½ cup of diced zucchini or bell peppers. They blend well with the squash and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. It’s a great side for a balanced dinner. Serve it warm for the best flavor.

It’s also perfect for holiday meals. Its light, savory taste complements heavier dishes like turkey or ham. A small scoop goes a long way.

Try it as a vegetarian main dish with a side salad. It’s filling and nutritious on its own.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The casserole stays fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. It lasts up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Make it ahead by prepping the mixture a day in advance. Store in the fridge and bake when ready for fresh results.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s an estimated nutritional profile for one serving, based on 6 servings per casserole. Values vary with cheese type or add-ins. This table assumes cheddar cheese.

Check labels for exact values, especially for dietary needs. Add-ins like extra veggies increase nutrients. This is a rough guide.

Why This Casserole Works for Everyone

This recipe is perfect for busy schedules. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. Even kids can help with mixing.

It’s affordable, using simple ingredients. Squash is often inexpensive, especially in season. Cheese and eggs are pantry staples.

The casserole is versatile and family-friendly. It’s light enough for everyday meals but special enough for gatherings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the casserole is watery, you didn’t drain the squash enough. Pat fresh or thawed squash dry before mixing. Use a colander for frozen squash.

If it’s not setting, bake a few minutes longer. Ensure your oven is at the right temperature. Eggs need time to firm up.

If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil halfway through. This keeps it moist while cooking through.

Summary

This healthy 3 ingredient squash casserole is a must-try for easy, nutritious meals. With squash, eggs, and cheese, it’s savory, low-carb, and ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Customize with herbs or extra veggies to suit your taste. It stores well and is great for making ahead. This recipe is budget-friendly, gluten-free, and loved by all.

Make this casserole today and enjoy its warm, comforting flavors. It’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

FAQ

Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash?
Yes, zucchini works well as a substitute. Slice it thinly and drain excess moisture. It has a similar texture and flavor.

What cheese is best for this casserole?
Cheddar adds great flavor, but mozzarella or parmesan work too. Use shredded cheese for easy melting. Avoid pre-shredded for best results.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Ensure it melts well, like vegan cheddar. The texture may vary slightly.

How long does this casserole last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Yes, try herbs, garlic powder, or diced veggies like zucchini. Keep add-ins to ½ cup to maintain texture. Mix in with the cheese.