Butternut Squash Casserole: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Everyone

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butternut Squash Casserole combines the sweetness of the squash with the richness of cream and cheese, making it a comforting, decadent dish. The onions and garlic add depth, while the dried thyme and smoked paprika lend just the right amount of seasoning to balance the sweetness. With the optional breadcrumb topping, you get a perfect mix of creamy and crunchy textures. This dish is simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying, and it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Ingredients

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the squash: In a pot, boil the cubed butternut squash for about 10 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the onions: In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a tablespoon of olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.
Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled squash, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sautéed onions and garlic, eggs, salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Mix until well combined.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the squash mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add breadcrumbs: If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Cool slightly: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes to firm up.
Garnish: Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Add cooked ground turkey, sausage, or chicken to the casserole for a heartier meal.
Vegan Version: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and the cheeses with dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also use flax or chia eggs as a substitute for the regular eggs.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh rosemary or sage for a different herb flavor that pairs beautifully with the butternut squash.
Sweet Addition: For a touch of sweetness, add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the casserole mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cut butternut squash for this recipe?

Yes, using pre-cut butternut squash will save you time, though be sure to check if it’s already cooked or raw, as that may affect the cooking time.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting the breadcrumb topping altogether.

4. Can I use other types of squash?

You can substitute butternut squash with other types of squash like acorn squash or pumpkin, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

5. Is this casserole suitable for a low-carb diet?

This casserole contains a fair amount of carbs from the squash, cream, and breadcrumbs. If you’re following a strict low-carb diet, you may want to reduce or omit the breadcrumbs.

6. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar and Parmesan cheese with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda for a different flavor.

7. How can I make the casserole more creamy?

For a creamier texture, increase the amount of heavy cream or use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream.

8. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

9. How do I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the mixture to add some heat.

10. Can I add nuts for extra crunch?

Yes, toasted pecans or walnuts would make a great addition to the top of the casserole for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Butternut Squash Casserole is the perfect side dish for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with rich flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or as a weeknight meal, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, this casserole is a delicious way to enjoy the sweetness of butternut squash in a savory, satisfying way.

Butternut Squash Casserole: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Everyone