Butternut squash casserole is like a warm hug on a chilly day, blending creamy textures and sweet, nutty flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, making everyone wonder what delicious magic is happening inside.
This dish holds a special place in my heart, often making an appearance during family gatherings where laughter and stories flow freely. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, creating memories as rich as the flavors in each bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The butternut squash casserole is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its delightful flavor profile balances sweetness with savory notes, keeping every bite interesting
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress on any table
- This dish is versatile enough for holidays or casual meals alike
There was that time my cousin took one bite and exclaimed it was like autumn had exploded in her mouth! We still laugh about how she almost didn’t leave any leftovers.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butternut Squash: Choose firm squashes with deep orange skin for the best flavor and texture.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; just be prepared for some tears while chopping!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves intensify the dish’s flavor; try not to eat them all raw before cooking.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives a rich flavor; don’t skimp on this!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch on top; you can substitute with gluten-free options if needed.
- Eggs: They help bind everything together; use large eggs for best results.
- Milk or Cream: Either works to create creaminess; go for whole milk if you want extra richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make butternut squash casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This will prevent any sticky situations later on when you’re ready to serve.
Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel and cube the butternut squash into even pieces for uniform cooking. Place them in boiling water for about 10 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and toss in chopped onions. Sauté until they turn golden brown and smell fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked squash with sautéed onions, garlic, eggs, milk or cream, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is coated evenly.
Add Seasoning and Transfer: Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Topping Time!: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the casserole for an irresistible crunchy finish. Top it off with remaining cheese for extra gooeyness!
Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist that long!
Enjoying butternut squash casserole during cozy family dinners has become a cherished tradition. You get layers of flavors that surprise your taste buds while comforting you like a favorite blanket on a cold night. So grab those ingredients and get ready to whip up something magical!
You Must Know
- This butternut squash casserole is a comforting dish that warms the heart
- The creamy texture and sweet notes create a delightful balance, making it a favorite for cozy family dinners
- Plus, it fills your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that’s hard to resist
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the butternut squash until it’s tender. Then, mix it with other ingredients and bake for an easy, delicious casserole.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add spices like nutmeg for extra flavor. A dash of balsamic vinegar can also elevate the taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy top.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, roast your squash until caramelized to enhance its sweetness
- Keep an eye on baking time so it doesn’t dry out
- Adding breadcrumbs on top creates a lovely crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling
Sharing this delightful butternut squash casserole recipe always brings smiles at gatherings. Family members rave about it during holidays, making every bite feel special.
FAQ
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this casserole?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well; just thaw and drain excess water before using.
What can I substitute for cheese in the casserole?
Nutritional yeast or cashew cream can make great dairy-free alternatives if you want to skip cheese.
How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
The butternut squash casserole stays fresh for about four days when stored properly in the fridge.
Butternut Squash Casserole
Warm and comforting, butternut squash casserole combines creamy textures with sweet, nutty flavors, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or chilly evenings. This delightful casserole is easy to prepare and offers a beautiful presentation, sure to impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
- 2 tbsp butter (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Boil cubed butternut squash for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes), then add garlic for an additional minute.
- In a bowl, combine cooked squash, sautéed onions and garlic, eggs, milk or cream, and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper. Pour into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices like nutmeg or thyme. If you want a quicker option, frozen butternut squash can be used; just thaw it first.
