Description
This easy Butternut Squash Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and slightly sweet dish perfect for autumn gatherings. Using simple ingredients like fresh butternut squash, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crunchy panko topping, it offers a comforting meal that feels like it took hours to prepare but comes together quickly and easily.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (sage or thyme), chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the squash: Peel and cube the butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces. Boil or steam the cubes until tender but not mushy, about 10-15 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, to build the casserole’s flavorful base.
- Mash and mix: Lightly mash the cooked squash with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in the sautéed onions and garlic, then gently fold in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs until combined.
- Assemble and top: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top to create a crunchy, golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake to perfection: Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is crispy and the inside is heated through and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Choose fresh squash for a sweeter, more vibrant flavor.
- Don’t over-mash the squash; keep some chunks for better texture.
- Toast the breadcrumbs lightly before topping to enhance crunchiness.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for better melt and richer flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg