Description
Butternut Squash Casserole
This Butternut Squash Casserole is a comforting classic, perfect for cozy evenings. The butternut squash’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory cheese, sautéed vegetables, and a hint of herbs. This dish has a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it an ideal addition to your fall table.
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red & 1 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Salt & pepper
Directions:
1. Roast squash, sauté aromatics.
2. Add bell peppers & spinach.
3. Combine ingredients & bake for 30-35 min.
Prep Time: 20 min
Kcal: 280
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender. Reduce oven to 375°F (190°C) for baking the casserole.
2. While squash roasts, heat the remaining oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped red and green bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted. Remove from heat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted squash, sautéed vegetable mixture, heavy cream, beaten eggs, thyme, rosemary, half of the cheddar, and half of the Parmesan. Season well with salt and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the remaining cheeses. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole is a versatile side dish. For a hearty vegetarian meal, serve it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork chops. For a festive holiday spread, present it alongside green bean almondine and mashed potatoes.
How-to Summary
Roast cubed butternut squash. Sauté onion, garlic, bell peppers, and spinach. Combine the squash and veggies with cream, eggs, herbs, and half the cheeses. Transfer to a dish, top with a breadcrumb and cheese mixture, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely (including topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half are good substitutes, though the texture will be slightly less rich.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole? It’s best frozen before baking. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Is there a gluten-free option? Absolutely. Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid under-roasting the squash, as it won’t mash properly into the creamy base. Do not skip letting the sautéed vegetable mixture cool slightly before adding the eggs to prevent them from scrambling. Overmixing the final combination can make the texture mushy; fold gently. Finally, ensure the casserole rests before serving so it sets properly for clean slices.
Conclusion
This Butternut Squash Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, masterfully balancing sweet, savory, and creamy elements. Its straightforward preparation leads to an impressively flavorful result that’s sure to become a seasonal staple. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special holiday gathering, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.