If you’re searching for a delicious and easy butternut squash casserole recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender roasted butternut squash baked with a creamy, cheesy topping. It’s a comforting side dish or even a main course that’s ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want something warm and satisfying. The best part? It’s simple to make, with straightforward ingredients and easy steps that anyone can follow.
Butternut squash is a versatile vegetable that brings natural sweetness and a smooth texture to casseroles. Combined with cheese, herbs, and a crunchy topping, this casserole becomes a crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this easy butternut squash casserole and some tips to make it extra special.
Why Choose Butternut Squash for Casserole?
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Its naturally sweet flavor pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like cheese, garlic, and herbs. When baked in a casserole, butternut squash becomes tender and creamy, creating a comforting texture that’s perfect for cooler weather or festive meals.
This vegetable is also very versatile. You can roast it, mash it, or cube it for casseroles. Its mild flavor means it works well with a variety of spices and cheeses, allowing you to customize your dish to your liking. Plus, butternut squash is widely available year-round, making it an easy ingredient to keep on hand.
Ingredients for Easy Butternut Squash Casserole
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3-4 cups cubed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Start by peeling the butternut squash, cutting it in half, and removing the seeds. Then cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the squash roasts, heat a small pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and dried thyme or rosemary. Mix gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. This will create a crunchy, golden topping.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the squash mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or similar size casserole dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the mixture. Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Tips for the Perfect Butternut Squash Casserole
- Roast the squash well to bring out its natural sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth—cheddar for sharpness, Parmesan for nuttiness.
- Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to complement the squash’s flavor.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream with the sour cream.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for the topping.
- Add crunch by mixing chopped pecans or walnuts into the breadcrumb topping.
Variations to Try
| Variation | How to Customize |
| Sweet and Savory | Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the mix |
| Spicy Kick | Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika |
| Protein Boost | Stir in cooked bacon bits or diced cooked chicken |
| Vegan Version | Use dairy-free cheese and substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt |
| Herb Mix | Use fresh sage and thyme instead of dried herbs |
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze butternut squash casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt for a similar creamy texture.
5. Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. To make it vegan, swap out the cheese and sour cream for plant-based alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a hearty dinner.
Add a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any creamy sauce.
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Final Thoughts
Easy butternut squash casserole is a wonderful dish that combines simple ingredients into a comforting, flavorful meal. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crunchy topping make it a favorite for all ages. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a holiday feast, this casserole is sure to impress. Try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of homemade comfort food made easy.
Easy Butternut Squash Casserole | Simple & Delicious Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes about 4 lbs
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped pecans or 1 cup shredded cheese Parmesan or Cheddar
- ⅔ cup brown sugar if using pecan topping
- ⅔ cup flour if using pecan topping
- 1 tablespoon olive oil if sautéing vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh kale or cranberries for added texture and flavor
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel, seed, and cube butternut squash or roast halves skin-side down until tender (about 1 hour).
- Scoop out cooked squash flesh and mash until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine squash, milk or cream, eggs, sugar, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg; mix well.
- Optional: sauté onions, garlic, and kale or mushrooms in olive oil until softened; fold into squash mixture.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- For the topping: mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon for a crunchy topping or sprinkle shredded cheese and breadcrumbs with sage and nutmeg for a savory crust.
- Sprinkle topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes at 350°F until the casserole is set and topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving
Notes
- To make a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use vegetable stock when sautéing.
- For a smoother texture, pulse squash in a food processor before mixing.
- Topping can be customized with marshmallows or breadcrumbs for variation.
- This casserole reheats well and can be made a day ahead250
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