Butternut Squash Casserole

This Butternut Squash Casserole is a delightful dish that brings the warm flavors of fall to your table. Combining sweet apples, savory sausage, and creamy Gruyere cheese, this casserole is perfect for gatherings and cozy family dinners alike. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it a standout side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of butternut squash, apples, and herbs creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
• Seasonal Appeal: Ideal for autumn meals, it celebrates the season’s bounty with fresh ingredients.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this casserole an approachable dish for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or a vegetarian main, it’s perfect for various occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is sure to impress guests with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create your butternut squash casserole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large bowl
• Skillet (cast-iron recommended)
• Medium baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the butternut squash and apples evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the sausage and caramelizing the fennel and onion, adding depth to the dish.
• Medium baking dish: Perfect size to hold all the ingredients together for baking.

Ingredients

To prepare your delicious butternut squash casserole, gather these 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 (fresh or fried), 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Apples

In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and apples. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season generously with salt, black pepper, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence; toss well to coat.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Spread the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes. Stir occasionally until tender.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

While roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add crumbled sweet Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Transfer to a bowl.

Step 5: Caramelize Fennel and Onion

If needed, add more oil to your pan. Add sliced fennel bulbs and onion. Caramelize together for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Set Up for Broiling

Once roasted vegetables are tender, switch your oven setting to broil.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix roasted butternut squash/apples with the sausage/fennel/onion mixture. Pour in remaining maple syrup; toss gently to combine. Spoon into a medium-sized baking dish (about 9 by 13 inches).

Step 8: Prepare Garnish (Optional)

For fried sage leaves, heat about 1/4 cup of oil in a small saucepan until shimmering. Add sage leaves; fry for about 20 seconds. Remove leaves; drain on paper towels.

Step 9: Finish Casserole

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

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with either fried or fresh sage leaves before serving warm.

Enjoy this delicious Butternut Squash Casserole, perfect for any gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Casserole

This butternut squash casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the casserole and adds a refreshing crunch.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken seasoned with herbs can elevate the dish, providing a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the butternut squash and apples.

Enjoy with Quinoa Pilaf

• A quinoa pilaf cooked with vegetables and herbs makes for a nutritious side that balances the richness of the casserole.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add an earthy note, enhancing the overall autumnal feel of your meal.

Offer Crusty Bread on the Side

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole, adding texture and heartiness to each bite.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top individual servings with fresh sage or parsley for an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Casserole

To achieve a flawless butternut squash casserole, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

• Choose ripe butternut squash: Select firm squash with smooth skin. This ensures maximum sweetness and flavor.

• Cut ingredients evenly: Uniformly cubing both squash and apples promotes even cooking, giving you tender bites throughout.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Spreading out your ingredients allows for better roasting, creating caramelization that enhances taste.

• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during preparation. This guarantees a well-balanced flavor profile in your finished casserole.

• Use high-quality cheese: Grated Gruyere cheese adds depth. Opt for fresh cheese rather than pre-grated for better melting quality.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, ensuring clean slices when served.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Casserole

The right side dishes can elevate your butternut squash casserole experience. Here are some excellent pairings to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a classic comfort food that pairs beautifully with any casserole.

2. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed in olive oil add color and crunch, balancing out the richness of the casserole.

3. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce introduces a burst of acidity that complements the sweetness of both squash and apples.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer nutty flavors that contrast nicely with the sweet elements in your dish.

5. Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf brings texture and earthiness, enhancing the overall complexity of your meal.

6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide additional sweetness while offering a fun twist on traditional sides.

7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots adds freshness and acidity, cutting through the rich flavors of the casserole.

8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs provides a light, flavorful side that complements the main dish without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your butternut squash casserole truly shine.

• Not peeling the squash: Leaving the skin on can result in a tough texture. Always peel the butternut squash before cubing it for a smoother casserole.
• Incorrect apple choice: Using apples that are too tart can overpower the dish. Opt for sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for balance.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: This can lead to uneven roasting. Spread your ingredients out to ensure they cook evenly.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season properly can make the casserole bland. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper as well as herbs for flavor enhancement.
• Not broiling long enough: Broiling helps achieve a golden-brown cheese topping. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly if left unattended.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Butternut Squash Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning before freezing for easy reheating.

Reheating Butternut Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What variations can I make to this Butternut Squash Casserole?

You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale, or substitute Gruyere with another cheese like cheddar for varied flavors.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage or replace it with plant-based sausage alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version of butternut squash casserole.

How do I store leftover Butternut Squash Casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

This butternut squash casserole is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure any added ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This butternut squash casserole is not only delightful but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this comforting dish a try, and enjoy the rich flavors of fall!