Butternut Squash Casserole

This Butternut Squash Casserole is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall with its perfect blend of flavors. The combination of sweet apples, tender squash, and savory sausage makes it an excellent choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also versatile enough to be served as a hearty side or a comforting main dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavors: Enjoy the warm and inviting tastes of fall with every bite of this casserole.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts; everyone will love the rich flavors.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with butternut squash and apples, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as a side dish or as a main course, making it adaptable for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious casserole, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Baking sheet
• Skillet (preferably cast-iron)
• Medium baking dish (9×13)
• Saucepan or pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing ingredients evenly without mess.
• Skillet: A versatile tool for browning sausage and caramelizing vegetables, enhancing flavors.
• Medium baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the ingredients together while baking.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed into medium-size chunks
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored and cubed into larger chunks (to match the squash)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided use
• 1/2 teaspoon ground, dried sage
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Herbes de Provence
• 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
• 2 small fennel bulbs, cut in half lengthwise, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 onion, quartered and thinly sliced
• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• Fresh sage leaves, for garnish

How to Make Butternut Squash Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil lightly misted with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Apples

Place the cubed butternut squash and apples into a large bowl.
* Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
* Sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper.
* Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence; toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 3: Roast the Mixture

Turn the mixture out onto your prepared baking sheet.
* Roast for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally until the squash is tender.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

While roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add a small drizzle of olive oil.
* Once hot, add crumbled sausage; cook until browned (about a few minutes).
* Remove from pan and keep warm in a bowl.

Step 5: Caramelize Fennel and Onion

If needed, add more oil to the skillet.
* Add sliced fennel and onion; caramelize for about 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
* Remove from pan and combine with sausage.

Step 6: Switch to Broil Setting

Once your butternut squash and apples are tender, switch your oven setting to “broil”.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl:
* Spoon in roasted butternut squash/apples mixture.
* Add sausage/fennel/onion mix along with remaining maple syrup; toss well.
* Spoon into a medium-sized baking dish.

Step 8: Garnish with Sage Leaves (Optional)

To prepare fried sage leaves:
* Heat about 1/4 cup of oil in a small saucepan until shimmering.
* Add sage leaves; fry for about 20 seconds then drain on paper towels. Lightly sprinkle with salt.

Step 9: Broil Cheese Topping

Top the casserole with grated Gruyere cheese.
* Place under broiler for just a few minutes until melted and golden-brown.

Step 10: Serve Your Casserole

Garnish with either fried sage leaves or fresh ones before serving. Enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash Casserole!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Casserole

This butternut squash casserole is a delicious and hearty dish, perfect for any gathering. Its sweet and savory flavors make it versatile for various occasions. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• A warm bowl of butternut squash casserole can be the star of your table, providing a comforting and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Paired with Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad, like arugula or spinach, tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.

Accompanied by Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to complement the casserole’s flavors and provide a satisfying crunch.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Serve with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots for added nutrition and texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or chives right before serving to add brightness and freshness.

As Part of a Buffet Spread

• Include the butternut squash casserole in a buffet-style spread during holiday gatherings, letting guests serve themselves alongside other festive dishes.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Casserole

To ensure your butternut squash casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe squash: Select butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has smooth skin. This ensures sweetness and flavor in your dish.

• Cut uniform pieces: Aim for evenly sized cubes when chopping the squash and apples. This allows for consistent cooking throughout.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the squash and apples enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor before mixing them into the casserole.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage leaves can elevate your dish significantly compared to dried ones. They add vibrant flavor that complements the sweetness.

• Watch the broiling time: Keep an eye on the casserole while broiling to prevent burning. You want golden-brown cheese without overcooking it.

• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps set its layers, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Casserole

Complement your butternut squash casserole with these tasty side dishes that enhance its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing with the rich casserole.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious contrast and adds texture to your meal.
3. Steamed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans drizzled with olive oil add color and freshness alongside the hearty casserole.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized can echo the sweetness of the casserole while providing an earthy flavor.
5. Cauliflower Gratin – A cheesy cauliflower gratin can offer creamy goodness that pairs well with the flavors of butternut squash.
6. Cranberry Sauce – A tart cranberry sauce can cut through the richness of the dish, adding brightness to every bite.
7. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs provides a light, fluffy side that absorbs any leftover sauce beautifully.
8. Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach seasoned simply enhances both color and nutrition on your plate while balancing richness from the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Casserole, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping flavor adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning can lead to a bland casserole. Always check for salt, pepper, and sweetness before serving.
• Not cutting ingredients evenly: Unevenly cut butternut squash and apples will cook at different rates. Ensure all pieces are similar in size for even roasting.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many ingredients on one baking sheet can steam rather than roast them. Spread everything out to allow for proper browning.
• Ignoring roasting time: Roasting for too long or too short can affect texture. Keep an eye on your vegetables and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheaper cheeses may not melt well or provide the desired flavor. Opt for high-quality Gruyere for a rich, creamy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Butternut Squash Casserole

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Butternut Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered with foil for about 25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Butternut Squash Casserole that you might find helpful.

Can I customize my Butternut Squash Casserole?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Try adding spinach or swapping out herbs for variation.

What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese?

If you can’t find Gruyere, consider using Swiss cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a similar creamy texture.

How do I know when my butternut squash is done roasting?

The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork, and caramelized edges will indicate it’s ready.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Is Butternut Squash Casserole healthy?

This casserole is packed with nutritious ingredients like butternut squash and apples, making it a healthy side dish option.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Its blend of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion, whether as a side dish or a comforting main course. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings to fit your palate!