Brenda Gantt created the classic Alabama Squash Casserole.

alabama squash casserole brenda gantt

Alabama Squash Casserole Brenda Gantt is a delicious dish from the southern United States. It is a comforting side dish made with squash, onions, cheese and sour cream that is sure to please any dinner table. This recipe was passed down from Brenda Gantt, a descendant of the Gantt family in Alabama. The taste is creamy and savory with a hint of tanginess that comes from the sour cream. Without compromising flavor or texture, this easy-to-follow recipe can be prepared ahead of time for a quick and delicious accompaniment to any meal. From food experts to novice cooks, everyone will love this classic Southern dish. It’s an ideal choice when you’re looking for something flavorful and simple that everyone at the dinner table will enjoy!

Alabama Squash Casserole Brenda Gantt

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients needed for Alabama Squash Casserole are squash, butter, onion, eggs, mayonnaise, milk, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. The squash can be any variety of yellow squash such as zucchini or crookneck. The onion can be either yellow or white. The mayonnaise should be a good quality brand.

Instructions

Assemble the ingredients needed for the casserole. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the squash into small cubes and set aside. Chop the onion into small pieces and set aside. Beat together the eggs in a large bowl and add in the mayonnaise, milk, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

In a large skillet over medium heat melt together the butter and onion until softened and fragrant about 5 minutes. Add in the cubed squash and cook for an additional 5 minutes stirring occasionally until squash is tender but not mushy.

Transfer the cooked squash mixture into the egg mixture bowl and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Grease a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter then pour in the egg-squash mixture spreading evenly across dish with a spatula. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown and center is firm to touch when lightly tapped with your finger tip. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with your favorite side dishes!

Analysis of Alabama Squash Casserole

Nutritional Value

Alabama Squash Casserole provides an ample amount of protein from both eggs and Parmesan cheese as well as dietary fiber from both vegetables used in it’s preparation; making it an excellent choice for any meal plan! The fact that it contains no added sugar also makes it suitable for diabetics or those looking to lose weight without sacrificing flavor!

Versatility & Variations

Alabama Squash Casserole is an incredibly versatile dish that can be tailored to suit many tastes! For those who prefer a more savory flavor you can easily swap out some of the vegetables used such as adding mushrooms or peppers instead of onion or zucchini instead of crookneck squash! You could even add some cooked sausage or bacon for extra protein! For those who have a sweet tooth you could add some diced apples or raisins into the mix while baking giving it an added sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cream sauces like alfredo or gravy!

History of Alabama Squash Casserole

The Alabama Squash Casserole was created by Brenda Gantt who owned a restaurant in Montgomery Alabama during the 1930s called ‘Gantt’s’. She was known for her classic southern cooking dishes which included her signature casseroles such as her famous ‘squash casserole’. Her recipe has been passed down through generations becoming one of Alabama’s most cherished traditional recipes!

Popularity of Alabama Squash Casserole

Over time this classic casserole has become increasingly popular both nationally as well as internationally due to its unique flavor combination that is sure to please even pickiest eaters! It has even been featured on celebrity cooking shows such as Guy Fieris Diners Drive Ins & Dives on Food Network! Additionally it has been mentioned in numerous magazines from Southern Living Magazine to Cooking Light Magazine helping spread its popularity even further than ever before!

Cooking Techniques for Making Alabama Squash Casserole

Best Technique for Blanching Squash

When preparing this dish one of the most important steps is blanching (or partially cooking) your chosen squash prior to adding them into your egg-squash mixture; this helps soften up their texture allowing them to bake faster while simultaneously enhancing their flavor profile! To blanch your chosen squash simply cut them into cubes then place them into boiling water just long enough for them begin softening about 1- 2 minutes then immediately remove them from heat immediately draining off any remaining water using a colander before combining them with all other ingredients together in one bowl per recipe instructions previously mentioned above !

< h3 >Tips for Making It Creamy
Making sure you use good quality mayonnaise when preparing this dish will help ensure maximum creaminess throughout while baking; however if you’re looking for extra creamy results adding just 1/4 cup sour cream along with 1/4 cup mayonnaise will help give it that extra boost in creamy texture you desire without sacrificing flavor too much ! Additionally if desired feel free to substitute reduced fat versions (such as light mayo) depending upon personal preference !

Serving Ideas for Alabama Squash Casserole

When serving Alabama Squash Casserole, it is best to pair it with a variety of side dishes. To complete the meal, serve the casserole with other vegetables such as roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed broccoli, or sauteed spinach. Other sides that work well are grains such as rice, quinoa, or couscous. For a heartier meal, include a protein source such as grilled chicken or smoked salmon. To make a complete meal for guests that will impress them, present your casserole in an attractive way on the plate. Arrange the sides around the casserole and garnish with fresh herbs and edible flowers if desired.

Alternatives and Substitutions for Alabama Squash Casserole Ingredients

If you want to make a vegan or vegetarian version of this classic casserole, there are a few swaps that can be made to the original ingredients list. Instead of butter, use vegan butter or olive oil. For the cream of chicken soup, use vegan mushroom-based cream soup instead. If you need it to be gluten-free then opt for gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular ones and use gluten-free all purpose flour instead of regular all-purpose flour in the recipe. For those looking for low-carb alternatives, swap out the bread crumbs for almond flour and opt for low carb cream soups instead.

Storage Recommendations for Leftovers of Alabama Squash Casserole

Leftover Alabama Squash Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in either the refrigerator or freezer depending on how soon you plan to eat it again. If you plan to eat it within four days then store it in the refrigerator until ready to reheat and serve again. If you plan to have leftovers for more than four days then store them in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to use again. To prevent dryness or sogginess when reheating leftovers from either storage method, cover them tightly with aluminum foil before reheating them in either an oven or microwave oven until warmed through.

Desirable Additions to The Alabama Squash Casserole

If desired, there are several additions that can be made to give this classic casserole even more flavor and texture. Herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika can all be added to give extra flavor while cheese toppings like shredded cheddar cheese or grated parmesan cheese can add a creamy texture when melted over top before baking into golden perfection.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is Alabama Squash Casserole?
A: Alabama squash casserole is a popular side dish made with squash, cheese, and other ingredients. It was created by Brenda Gantt and is regularly served in the southern United States.

Q: What ingredients are needed to make Alabama Squash Casserole?
A: The ingredients needed to make Alabama Squash Casserole include squash, cheese, butter, onion, salt and pepper. Additional ingredients may be added depending on personal preference such as herbs and spices or additional vegetables.

Q: What are some cooking techniques for making Alabama Squash Casserole?
A: The best technique for blanching squash for the casserole is to boil it for 2-3 minutes before draining and setting aside. For a creamy casserole, it’s important to mix the ingredients together well and add enough butter to help bind everything together. Additionally, using pre-cooked squash will help reduce the overall cooking time.

Q: What are some storage recommendations for leftovers of Alabama Squash Casserole?
A: Leftovers of Alabama Squash Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To ensure maximum freshness, it’s recommended to reheat the casserole in an oven or microwave before serving again.

Q: Are there any alternatives or substitutions for Alabama Squash Casserole ingredients?
A: For vegan and vegetarian options, vegan cheese can be used instead of regular cheese while gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs as a topping. Additionally, low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower rice can also be used instead of squash in order to reduce the overall carbohydrate content of the dish.

Alabama squash casserole is a delicious and easy to make dish that is perfect for any occasion. It can be served as a side dish or as a main course. Brenda Gantt’s version of the casserole includes squash, onion, garlic, tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings to create a flavorful and hearty meal. The combination of flavors makes this dish great for any occasion and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!