Butternut squash casserole is a standout side or even a vegetarian main dish for holidays. And I love sharing this easy, comforting recipe with you.
Contents
Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Butternut squash casserole is a cozy classic, perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. It combines creamy, sweet butternut squash with flavorful additions like cheese, herbs, or a crunchy crumb topping. These ingredients make it have a perfect balance between savory and a hint of sweetness.
My casserole includes a smooth, creamy base seasoned with nutmeg and cinnamon, a crisp layer of breadcrumbs for added texture. Its luxurious texture and golden topping make it a beautiful centerpiece, whether you serve it for a family dinner or bring it to a potluck.
You can serve this dish as a side or enjoy it alone as a hearty vegetarian entrée. It’s rich enough to satisfy but never feels heavy. It’s a go-to comfort dish throughout the colder months.
The dish pairs beautifully with roast meats such as turkey, chicken, or lamb. It also makes a great match for seafood like baked salmon or herb-roasted cod. For a vegetarian feast, the casserole works alongside dishes like wild rice pilaf, sautéed green beans, or a crisp kale salad.
Comfort foods like mashed potatoes, cornbread, and stuffing go well with butternut squash casserole, especially for holiday spreads. When served at brunch, it pairs delightfully with quiche, a medley of roasted vegetables, or a fresh fruit salad.
Here’s how to make the butternut squash casserole:
Butternut Squash Casserole
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash about 2-3 lbs, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until tender.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss roasted squash in this mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer squash to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs (and cheese if using) evenly on top.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a cozy main.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top.
- Can be made ahead and reheated; simply cover with foil to prevent drying.
- Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Variations
Here are a few popular variations you can try to make with this classic butternut squash casserole.
- Crunchy Pecan Topped Casserole adds a sweet, nutty layer of chopped pecans tossed with brown sugar and cinnamon baked on top.
- Cheesy Gruyère Gratin features layers of thinly sliced squash baked with Gruyère cheese, cream, and a touch of sage for a rich, savory finish.
- Herb and Parmesan Crust sprinkles fresh herbs and grated Parmesan over panko breadcrumbs for a fragrant, golden topping.
- Spicy Southwest Casserole incorporates black beans, bell peppers, ground beef, and smoky paprika for a hearty, robust flavor profile.
- Vegan Butternut Squash Casserole uses coconut milk and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, plant-based dish with ample flavor.
- Basil Cream Casserole drizzles homemade basil pesto mixed with cream over roasted squash before topping with crunchy breadcrumbs and nuts.
- Classic Marshmallow Topping swaps crunchy crusts for a layer of marshmallows toasted under the broiler for a dessert-like twist.