Butternut Squash Casserole is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a creamy, cheesy filling that is hard to resist. Perfect for chilly nights or as a show-stopping side dish for holiday feasts, this casserole melds flavors beautifully and is sure to please both family and guests alike. With its vibrant colors and satisfying textures, it’s not just a dish; it’s an experience.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This butternut squash casserole recipe is a culinary dream come true, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with rich cheeses and savory spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Whether you’re following a vegetarian diet or simply seeking a filling side dish, this casserole is nutritious and satisfying, packed with vitamins and fiber.
Tips and Tricks
To make your butternut squash casserole a success, here are some handy tips:
- Peeling and Cutting Squash: Use a vegetable peeler to easily remove the tough outer skin. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then dice into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Roasting for Flavor: Roasting the squash before adding it to the casserole enhances its natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
- Cheese Choices: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of cheese like sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for creaminess.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs such as thyme or sage can elevate the flavor profile. Add them during the last few minutes of baking for a fragrant finish.
Make Ahead Tips
This casserole is a great make-ahead option. You can roast the butternut squash a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the entire casserole the day before and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. When stored properly, it can stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your butternut squash casserole:
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked quinoa, lentils, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Different Vegetables: Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or even diced sweet potatoes for added texture and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, cayenne, or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
How to Serve
Serve your butternut squash casserole warm from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it in a large, rustic baking dish to highlight the charm of the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving it with sparkling apple cider or a refreshing herbal tea. Complement the meal with sides like garlic bread or a tart cranberry salad for a delightful balance.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the squash
- A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- A roasting pan or baking sheet for roasting the squash
- A 9×13-inch baking dish for the casserole
- Aluminum foil to cover the casserole during baking if needed
Dietary Adaptations
To adapt this recipe for different dietary needs:
- Vegan: Replace cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use plant-based milk instead of dairy.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.
- Nut-Free: Ensure any cheese or milk substitutes are nut-free.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just double-check all packaged ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
Consider seasonal ingredients to enhance your casserole:
- Fall: Incorporate sage and roasted apples.
- Winter: Add caramelized onions or garlic for warmth.
- Spring: Mix in fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and taste.
- Summer: Use zucchini or yellow squash for a lighter version.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, you can use frozen squash, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- How long should I bake the casserole? Typically, it takes about 30-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), until golden and bubbly.
- What can I substitute for cheese? Nutritional yeast or cashew cream can be a great dairy-free substitute.
How To Make butternut squash casserole recipe
Butternut Squash Casserole
Butternut Squash Casserole is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a creamy, cheesy filling that is hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a roasting pan.
- Roast the squash for 25-30 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a separate bowl, combine the roasted squash, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 379Total Fat 32gSaturated Fat 19gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 97mgSodium 485mgCarbohydrates 6gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 17g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This butternut squash casserole recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cooking game while enjoying the comforting flavors of autumn. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
