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Creamy Butternut Squash Casserole
This butternut squash casserole transforms simple fall produce into a rich, comforting dish that brings families together. With its creamy texture and warm spices, this recipe delivers both nutritional benefits and incredible flavor. Butternut squash provides essential vitamins A and C, while the cheese adds protein and calcium for a well-rounded meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly ingredients that cost under $10 total, making it perfect for feeding large families without breaking the bank
- Packed with vitamin A, fiber, and potassium from butternut squash, supporting immune health and digestion naturally
- Simple 45-minute preparation time that fits busy weeknight schedules while delivering restaurant-quality results
- Versatile side dish that complements turkey, chicken, or beef for holiday gatherings and family dinners
- Make-ahead friendly recipe that tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prep and entertaining
Why This Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe Works
The secret lies in perfectly balancing creamy and savory elements. Pre-cooking the squash ensures tender texture, while the cream creates richness without overwhelming the natural sweetness. The nutmeg adds warmth that enhances the squash’s earthy flavor profile.
Sharp cheddar cheese provides tangy contrast to the mild squash, creating depth in every bite. The garlic powder adds savory notes without competing with the main ingredient. This combination creates a casserole that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
What You’ll Need for This Butternut Squash Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut squash | 2 lbs, peeled and cubed | Main ingredient providing sweetness and creamy base |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded | Adds richness and tangy flavor contrast |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creates smooth, luxurious texture |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Provides savory depth without overpowering |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | Enhances natural squash flavor with warm spice |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boiling squash until tender for easy mashing |
| Baking dish | Even heat distribution for golden, bubbly top |
| Mixing bowl | Combining all ingredients thoroughly before baking |
| Colander | Draining excess water from cooked squash |
You’ll spend approximately $8-12 on ingredients, making this an affordable option for feeding 4-6 people. The classic butternut squash casserole variations can inspire additional ingredient combinations.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Casserole
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Prep and Preheat | Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. |
| 2. Cook Squash | Boil water in large pot. Add cubed butternut squash and cook 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly. |
| 3. Mix Ingredients | Combine cooked squash, heavy cream, garlic powder, nutmeg, and half the cheddar cheese in mixing bowl. |
| 4. Assemble Casserole | Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top for golden finish. |
| 5. Bake | Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture. |
The key to success lies in properly draining the cooked squash. Excess water creates a soggy casserole instead of the desired creamy consistency. This recipe works beautifully alongside hearty chicken dishes for complete family meals.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Choose squash that feels heavy for its size with unblemished skin, indicating peak ripeness and maximum flavor
- Cut squash into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole
- Drain cooked squash in colander for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture that could make casserole watery
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and superior flavor results
- Test doneness by checking if edges bubble actively and top turns golden brown with slight browning
Serving and Storage Tips for Butternut Squash Casserole
Serving Tips
This casserole shines at holiday gatherings, serving 4-6 people as a side dish. Pair it with roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or beef roast for balanced meals. The creamy texture complements crispy proteins beautifully.
Serve immediately while hot for the best experience. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or sage for elegant presentation. The casserole pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta dishes for indulgent dinner parties.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in covered containers. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes until heated through.
Mistakes to Avoid while making Butternut Squash Casserole
Overcooking the squash creates mushy texture that won’t hold its shape during baking. Test with a fork after 12 minutes – it should pierce easily but still maintain some structure for the best final result.
Skipping the draining step leaves excess water in your mixture. This creates a watery casserole instead of the desired creamy consistency. Always drain thoroughly and let cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients.
Using pre-shredded cheese often results in poor melting due to anti-caking agents. Fresh cheese melts smoothly and creates the perfect golden top. Take the extra minute to shred your own cheese for superior results.
You Must Know
- Butternut squash contains high levels of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A for immune system support and eye health
- This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining
- Substitute milk for heavy cream to reduce calories by approximately 200 calories per serving without sacrificing much flavor
- The dish freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly, providing convenient make-ahead meal options
Suggestions for Butternut Squash Casserole
Transform this basic recipe with creative additions. Crispy bacon bits add smoky flavor and textural contrast. Toasted pecans or walnuts provide satisfying crunch and complement the squash’s natural sweetness perfectly.
For lighter versions, substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream. This maintains creaminess while adding protein and reducing calories. Fresh herbs like sage or rosemary elevate the flavor profile for special occasions.
Make it heartier by adding cooked ground turkey or diced ham. This transforms the side dish into a complete meal. Consider trying other butternut squash casserole variations for inspiration.
For those following specific diets, this recipe adapts easily. Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream for dairy-free versions. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese for plant-based alternatives while maintaining umami depth.
FAQs:
Yes, assemble the casserole completely and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from cold. This makes it perfect for holiday meal prep.
Look for active bubbling around the edges and a golden-brown top. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. Internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety.
Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Use whole milk, half-and-half, or Greek yogurt mixed with milk. Coconut cream works for dairy-free versions. Each substitution slightly changes texture but maintains delicious flavor.
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm entire dish in 350°F oven for 15 minutes until heated through.
Conclusion
This creamy butternut squash casserole delivers comfort food satisfaction with nutritional benefits your family will love. The simple ingredient list and straightforward preparation make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this versatile dish complements various main courses beautifully. The make-ahead friendly nature reduces stress during busy entertaining seasons while delivering consistent, delicious results.
With its budget-friendly ingredients and crowd-pleasing flavor, this butternut squash casserole deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it throughout the fall and winter seasons. For more comforting casserole ideas, explore our collection of family-friendly recipes.
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📖 Recipe Card
Butternut Squash Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. let rest 5 minutes before serving 1x
Description
A creamy and delicious butternut squash casserole with sharp cheddar cheese and warm spices, perfect as a comforting side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Prep and Preheat: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Squash: Boil water in large pot. Add cubed butternut squash and cook 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine cooked squash, heavy cream, garlic powder, nutmeg, and half the cheddar cheese in mixing bowl.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top for golden finish.
- Bake: Bake 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Choose squash that feels heavy for its size with unblemished skin for peak ripeness and maximum flavor.
- Drain cooked squash in colander for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture that could make casserole watery.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and superior flavor results.
- Test doneness by checking if edges bubble actively and top turns golden brown with slight browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285 calories
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: butternut squash casserole, recipe, homemade, cooking, food, easy recipe
