Aunt Ethel’s Baked Squash – The Black Family Reunion Cookbook – Black Foodie Finder

A Classic Southern Baked Squash Casserole

Tender summer squash, buttery breadcrumbs, and simple seasonings make Aunt Ethel’s Baked Squash a comforting Southern casserole perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.

Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this homestyle vegetable dish brings traditional Southern flavors to the table.

Ingredients

(Listed exactly as they appear in the cookbook.)

• 3 pounds summer squash, sliced
• 3 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup chopped onions
• ½ cup butter or margarine, divided
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ½ cup Italian bread crumbs

Makes: 6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 1½-quart casserole dish.
2. Cook the squash. Place the sliced squash in a large saucepan and cover with water. Cook until tender, then drain thoroughly and mash.
3. Mix the ingredients. Stir the beaten eggs, chopped onions, ¼ cup butter, sugar, salt (if using), and pepper into the mashed squash until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole. Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared baking dish. Melt the remaining ¼ cup butter and drizzle over the top. Sprinkle evenly with Italian breadcrumbs.
5. Bake until golden. Bake at 375°F for approximately 1 hour, or until the top is nicely browned. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Drain squash thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
• Add shredded Cheddar cheese for a cheesy variation.
• Use fresh summer squash for the best texture.
• Serve with fried chicken, baked ham, or collard greens.

About the Recipe

Aunt Ethel’s Baked Squash reflects the Southern tradition of turning fresh vegetables into warm, satisfying casseroles. Its simple ingredients and buttery topping make it a comforting family-style side dish.

Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this recipe celebrates the home-cooking traditions preserved across generations.

The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women

Where to Find This Recipe

The original Aunt Ethel’s Baked Squash recipe appears in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., published by Simon & Schuster.

This Black Foodie adaptation preserves the original ingredients and cooking method while presenting the instructions in updated language. Pro tips and serving suggestions are additional recommendations from Black Foodie.