This Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy cheese and sweet squash, all baked to golden perfection. It’s comfort food that warms your heart and tummy!
Honestly, who can resist a cheesy dish? I always find myself going back for seconds! It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without feeling guilty. 😄
Making this casserole is a breeze! Just mix, layer, and pop it in the oven. It’s great for family dinners or a cozy night in with friends. Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! If you’re short on time, you can find pre-cut butternut squash in many grocery stores. If you want a different flavor, pumpkin or sweet potatoes can also work well.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a tasty kick, but you could use a mild cheddar if that’s what you have. For an extra creamy texture, consider using gouda or Monterey jack cheese.
Heavy Cream or Milk: Heavy cream adds richness, but you can substitute with whole milk or even half-and-half if you’d like a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or almond milk, while keeping the flavor in mind.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch, but if you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work too. For a more health-conscious option, you could skip the topping altogether!
How Do I Get the Butternut Squash Perfectly Roasted?
Getting that squash tender and delicious is key! Start by cutting it into uniform pieces for even cooking. Roasting helps caramelize the sugars, enhancing that natural sweetness.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Lightly drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper—this adds flavor!
- Roast for 25-30 minutes. Check with a fork; they should pierce easily when done. Avoid overcrowding the pan to let the squash brown.
Taking the time to roast the butternut squash makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor of your casserole!
Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Olive oil for greasing the dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes for cooking and baking. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour! Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a medium-sized baking dish or casserole dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Roasting the Butternut Squash:
Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Spread them out so they roast nicely. Place in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Once done, take them out and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
3. Making the Cheese Sauce:
While the squash is roasting, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and heat it gently. Be careful not to boil it!
4. Mixing in the Cheeses:
After the cream is warmed, take it off the heat and stir in the shredded cheeses (reserve a little cheddar for topping), fresh thyme, nutmeg (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is melted and smooth.
5. Combining Squash and Cheese Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash with the cheese sauce you just made. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the squash is coated evenly with that yummy cheese sauce.
6. Assembling the Casserole:
Transfer the cheesy squash mixture into your prepared baking dish. Now sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese and Parmesan on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the panko breadcrumbs for a tasty crunch!
7. Baking the Casserole:
Pop the casserole in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. It should look super inviting!
8. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes to set. Garnish it with some fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serving it Up:
Serve this warm, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish as a delightful side or even as a vegetarian main. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Enjoy your cheesy, golden, and savory butternut squash casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash Instead?
Yes! If you’re using frozen butternut squash, there’s no need to roast it first. Simply thaw it in the fridge or microwave before combining it with the cheese sauce. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it while it cooks.
Could I Substitute the Cream for a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! You can use whole milk or even a plant-based milk alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the casserole may be less creamy than with heavy cream.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Casserole?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, kale, or even cooked mushrooms for added flavors and nutrients. Just make sure to chop them finely and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender and delicious!
