Butternut Squash Casserole

This Butternut Squash Casserole is a heartwarming dish that captures the essence of fall with its delightful blend of flavors. Featuring roasted butternut squash, sweet apples, savory sausage, and rich Gruyère cheese, this casserole is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With its easy preparation and comforting taste, it’s sure to become a favorite on your table throughout the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of sweet apples and savory sausage creates a unique taste that will satisfy everyone’s palate.
• Seasonal Appeal: Made with fresh butternut squash and apples, this casserole embodies the flavors of autumn, making it ideal for seasonal celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a comforting dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly pairs with various mains, from roasted chicken to grilled veggies, enhancing any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead and reheated, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Butternut Squash Casserole efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to gather before starting your cooking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Cast-iron skillet or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13)
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even roasting of the squash and apples, enhancing their flavors.
• Cast-Iron Skillet: Ideal for browning sausage and caramelizing fennel and onions, providing a rich depth of flavor to your dish.

Ingredients

This butternut squash casserole has all the flavors of fall with apples, sweet sausage, caramelized fennel and onions, plus Gruyere cheese!

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 Vegetables

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and apples.
2. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over them.
3. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup along with dried sage and Herbes de Provence; toss everything to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Mixture

Spread the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 35 minutes while stirring occasionally until the squash is tender.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

While roasting:
1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add crumbled sweet Italian sausage; cook until browned (about a few minutes).
3. Remove from heat and set aside in a bowl.

Step 5: Caramelize Fennel and Onion

If more oil is needed:
1. Add sliced fennel and onion to the skillet.
2. Caramelize for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown; then add them to the bowl with sausage.

Step 6: Broil Preparation

Once roasted vegetables are tender:
Switch your oven setting to broil.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl:
1. Combine roasted butternut squash/apples with sausage/fennel/onion mixture.
2. Pour in remaining maple syrup; toss gently to mix.
3. Transfer everything into a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 9×13).

Step 8: Garnish with Sage

If desired:
1. Heat about 1/4 cup of oil in a small saucepan until shimmering.
2. Fry sage leaves for about 20 seconds; drain on paper towels & sprinkle lightly with salt.

Step 9: Final Cooking

Top your casserole with grated Gruyère cheese:
Place under broiler for a few minutes until melted and golden-brown.

Step 10: Serve

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

How to Serve Butternut Squash Casserole

This butternut squash casserole is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal. This encourages everyone to help themselves and adds warmth to your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair your butternut squash casserole with a fresh green salad. A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar complements the rich flavors of the casserole.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy the casserole as leftovers for lunch or dinner. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, making it a convenient option for busy days.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve alongside grilled chicken for added protein. The savory sausage and sweet squash blend nicely with the smoky flavor of grilled meat.

On A Buffet Spread

• Include this casserole on a buffet table during gatherings. Its vibrant colors and aroma will draw guests in, making it a standout dish.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Casserole

Creating the perfect butternut squash casserole requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here’s how to ensure you achieve maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and apples yield better taste than canned alternatives. Look for firm squash and ripe apples for optimal results.
• Don’t Skip Caramelizing: Caramelizing the fennel and onions enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor, which balances the savory elements in the dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking! Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to achieve a balanced flavor profile that suits your palate.
• Layer Flavors: When combining ingredients, layer them thoughtfully to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole.
• Monitor Broiling Time: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling; it can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly. Remove when it reaches your desired color.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh sage leaves or fried sage as a garnish not only enhances presentation but also elevates flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Casserole

Complementing your butternut squash casserole with suitable side dishes can create an unforgettable meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil, these sprouts become crispy and add a nice crunch alongside the creamy casserole.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing provides a light contrast.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort food appeal that pairs well with rich casseroles.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add vibrant color and freshness to your plate while being easy to prepare.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Serve warm cornbread muffins for a delightful sweet touch that complements the savory flavors of the casserole.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A zesty cranberry sauce adds both tartness and sweetness, creating an exciting balance with each bite of the casserole.
7. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of seasonal vegetables brings brightness and variety to your meal without overwhelming flavors.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs makes for a great side that absorbs excess sauce beautifully.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and sides, your butternut squash casserole will shine at any meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your butternut squash casserole turns out perfectly, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Not Prepping Ingredients Properly: Failing to peel and cube the butternut squash and apples can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to prepare each ingredient so they roast evenly.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your casserole bland. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs; taste as you go!
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you pile too many ingredients together, they will steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal roasting.
• Ignoring Roasting Times: Not checking for doneness can result in undercooked or overcooked vegetables. Keep an eye on your squash and apples while roasting.
• Forgetting to Broil: The final step of broiling is crucial for achieving that golden cheese topping. Don’t skip this step for a delightful finish!
• Neglecting Garnishes: A simple garnish like fresh or fried sage leaves adds flavor and presentation. Always consider a finishing touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Timeframe: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Butternut Squash Casserole

• Timeframe: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil.

Reheating Butternut Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot. Be careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this delicious dish, here are some commonly asked questions regarding butternut squash casserole.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! You can substitute with acorn squash or pumpkin for a different flavor profile.

Is Butternut Squash Casserole healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with vitamins from squash and apples while being lower in calories compared to traditional casseroles.

How can I customize my Butternut Squash Casserole?

Feel free to add nuts for crunch or different cheeses for varied flavors—experimenting is part of the fun!

What should I serve with Butternut Squash Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a versatile side dish.

Can I make this casserole vegan?

Yes! Substitute sweet Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegan cheese for a delicious vegan option.

Final Thoughts

This butternut squash casserole brings warmth and comfort with every bite, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding different herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!