Savory Southern Squash Casserole

In life, we gather to celebrate joyous occasions, but it is also important to come together in times of sadness to remember and pay our respects to those who have left us. The funeral casserole, a humble yet comforting dish, has long been a staple at these somber gatherings. Today, we bring you a recipe for the ultimate Funeral Casserole – a dish that not only warms the heart but also pays tribute to the memories of loved ones.

The Art of Comfort Food

Funeral casseroles are more than just a meal; they are an expression of love and support for grieving families. These dishes provide sustenance during difficult times, offering solace and nourishment to those in mourning. While the circumstances may be sad, the food served is anything but. Funeral casseroles are all about indulgence, offering comfort through flavors and familiar aromas that harken back to happier times.

The Great Funeral Casserole Recipe

Today, we present to you a comforting and hearty Funeral Casserole recipe that is sure to bring solace to those in need.

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted non dairy butter, divided

• 3 pounds yellow squash, sliced ¼-inch thick (from 5 medium squash)

• 1 medium-size yellow onion, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

• 1/2 cup pureed silken tofu

• 1 (8-oz.) container non dairy sour cream

• 1 cup non dairy shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup non dairy swiss cheese (shredded)

  • I buy the squares and tear them up

• ½ cup non dairy mayonnaise

• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 sleeves round buttery crackers (such as Ritz), coarsely crushed

• 1 ounce non dairy Parmesan cheese, shredded (about ¼ cup)

Instructions:

Cook squash:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 11- x 7-inch (2 quart) baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Melt 3 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add squash, onion, and 1 teaspoon of the salt; cook, stirring often, until center of squash is just tender and liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes.

3. Transfer mixture to a colander set over a bowl. Drain 5 minutes; discard any liquid.

4. Blend your tofu with your sour cream and mayonnaise. Don’t over mix it. We are just using the mayo and cream to help blend your tofu up easily.

5. Pour out your tofu, cream, mayo mixture into a large bowl and then add Cheddar and Swiss cheeses, thyme, pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in the same bowl.

6. Gently fold in squash mixture.

7. Spoon into a lightly greased 11- x 7-inch (2-quart) baking dish.

8. Microwave remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a medium-size microwavable bowl on HIGH until melted, about 25 seconds.

9. Toss together crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until combined.

10. Sprinkle topping over casserole.

11. Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

In times of loss, the Funeral Casserole serves as a reminder that even amidst sorrow, there can be comfort and togetherness. This heartwarming dish brings friends and family closer as they gather to remember, mourn, and celebrate the lives of those who have passed on. Whether you're preparing this casserole for a grieving family or just craving a taste of nostalgia, it's a dish that will always hold a special place in our hearts.

As you savor each bite of this comforting casserole, may you find solace in the memories of your loved ones and the support of those around you. It is a dish made with love and served with compassion, a testament to the enduring power of food to heal and unite us in our times of need.