Minnie Pearl’s Squash and Cheese Casserole

In 1939, while in Aiken, Ophelia Colley purchased clothing and a hat which she then wore to her debut on the Grand Ole Op’ry with the price tag still dangling, and Minnie Pearl’s persona was born.  Later, in the 1960s, Minnie Pearl was a guest on the Noon Show from Nashville, TN where she demonstrated the following recipe on that program.  Judy Sharpe was listening, and she has made this dish ever since.

Minnie Pearl’s Squash and Cheese Casserole

1 pound yellow squash

1 medium onion, chopped

1 cup grated cheese

1 tablespoon sugar

2 eggs, beaten

3 tablespoons melted butter

1 teaspoon powdered sage

Salt and pepper to taste

Paprika, to garnish

Cook squash in a small amount of boiling, salted water until just tender.  Drain well.  Mix all ingredients except 1/2 cup cheese and paprika.  Pour into a buttered casserole.  Place remaining cheese on top and sprinkle with paprika.  Bake at 350° until it bubbles and the cheese on top is melted, about 25 minutes.

Minnie Pearl

Submitted by Judy Sharpe