Cheesy Squash Bake
Cheesy Squash Bake is a comforting, oven-baked casserole dish featuring sliced or cubed summer squash (like yellow squash or zucchini) layered or mixed with a creamy, cheesy sauce and often a crunchy topping. It's a staple of American home cooking, particularly popular in the South and Midwest as a hearty side dish for family meals and potlucks.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is moderate in carbohydrates and protein but can be higher in fat, primarily from the generous use of cheese and often a creamy base like sour cream or cream of mushroom soup. It provides a good source of vitamins A and C from the squash, along with calcium and phosphorus from the dairy, with a typical serving ranging from 200-300 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 14 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 18 mg |
| Calcium | 280 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg |
| Folate | 30 mcg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
Per 1 cup (220 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents a classic 'comfort food' transformation, turning a simple, abundant summer vegetable into a rich, indulgent dish. Nutritionally, it's a prime example of how adding fats and dairy can significantly boost the calorie and nutrient density of a vegetable base.
