If you’re craving the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy in one dish, look no further than this butternut squash casserole. It’s a wonderful addition to your holiday table or a cozy weeknight dinner.

With its tender chunks of squash, creamy texture, and a golden, buttery crumb topping, this casserole offers a warm, inviting dish that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Squash

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by preparing the butternut squash. After peeling, seeding, and cubing it, boil the squash in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well and mash the squash until smooth or slightly chunky if you prefer a more rustic texture.

2. Mix the Casserole Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed squash with the melted butter, sugar, eggs, milk, flour, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed and smooth. The mixture should have a custard-like consistency at this stage.

3. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the squash mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure an even bake.

4. Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the light brown sugar, crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs), and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is crumbly but evenly coated. This topping is what takes the casserole to the next level, adding texture and an extra layer of sweetness.

5. Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the squash mixture, covering the entire surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is set. The aroma of the baking casserole will fill your kitchen with a warm, comforting scent that’s hard to resist.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a hearty side dish. Its creamy texture with the crunchy topping makes it the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.

Tips for Success

• Customize the topping: If you’re not a fan of cornflakes, swap them out for panko breadcrumbs, chopped pecans, or even oats for a more rustic finish.
• For a healthier twist: You can reduce the sugar or swap it out for maple syrup for a more natural sweetener. Coconut sugar also works well in this recipe.
• Make ahead: This casserole is a great dish to prepare ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for a stress-free meal.
• Serving suggestions: Pair it with roast chicken, turkey, or ham, or simply serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers: To keep your butternut squash casserole fresh, let it cool completely before storing it. Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Freezing Tips: This casserole freezes well for longer storage. After baking and cooling, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the casserole without the topping and add a fresh topping before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If reheating from the refrigerator, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the topping from burning and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen casseroles, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Add a fresh topping if desired for extra crunch.
• In the Microwave: For smaller portions, microwave on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Pro Tip: Reheat uncovered for the last few minutes to revive the crispy topping.

Why Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash is a versatile vegetable that’s packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. It has a natural sweetness that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes, making it a staple in fall and winter meals. The creamy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect base for casseroles, soups, and even desserts!

Final Thoughts

This butternut squash casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to bring warmth and comfort to their dining table. Its sweet, creamy filling, combined with a crispy, buttery topping, makes it an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or just craving something cozy, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!