This Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole is a warm and comforting dish! It’s packed with creamy cheese and sweet butternut squash, making it a delightful choice for any meal.
Trust me, when that cheesy goodness comes out of the oven, everyone will want a spoonful. I love serving it with a sprinkle of herbs on top for extra flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for squash that feels heavy for its size and has smooth, firm skin. If you can’t find butternut squash, sweet potatoes or acorn squash can work well as a substitute.
Cheeses: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want something milder, to use mozzarella instead. You could also do a mix with Monterey Jack or Gouda for extra creaminess.
Milk: Whole milk gives a richer flavor, but you can easily swap it with 2% or even almond milk for a dairy-free option. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you choose nut milk.
Herbs: Fresh sage or thyme adds a lovely earthiness, but feel free to use Italian seasoning or even rosemary if you prefer. Dried herbs work as well!
Panko Breadcrumbs: They add a fantastic crunch. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs can substitute, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Casserole?
The key to getting the right texture for the butternut squash casserole is to properly roast the squash first. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven and prepare a baking sheet.
- Cut the butternut squash into even cubes and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper; this ensures every piece is evenly coated for roasting.
- Roast until tender and lightly browned, as this enhances the flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step, as it makes the casserole beautifully creamy!
- Mix the roasted squash carefully with the cheese and egg mixture; this will help retain some of the squash’s shape and add creaminess.
After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set up nicely. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh sage leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and about 30 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential to ensure your casserole cooks evenly. While it’s heating, you can prepare your baking dish to save time.
2. Prepare the Butternut Squash:
Take the diced butternut squash and toss it with the olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Make sure all the pieces are well coated. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven to roast for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for it to be tender and just starting to turn golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven.
3. Mix the Egg and Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme or sage. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Combine the Squash and Creamy Mixture:
Now, take the roasted butternut squash and gently fold it into your egg and cheese mixture. Make sure the squash is evenly coated with this deliciousness!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mix into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. This helps it cook uniformly.
6. Add More Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you like a crunchy topping, you can add the panko breadcrumbs here as well!
7. Bake Away:
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until you see that the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the middle is set.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up a bit. Garnish with fresh sage leaves or more thyme if you’d like.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole warm, either as a delightful side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors of this savory casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid a watery consistency.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Serve This Casserole With?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, or even as a side to meats like chicken or turkey. You can also enjoy it on its own as a hearty vegetarian option!