There is nothing quite like the comforting warmth of an Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe to brighten up your dinner table or holiday feast. This dish is a beautiful balance of naturally sweet butternut squash and a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that adds a delightful texture you’re going to love. It’s approachable enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to share with guests, making it one of my all-time favorite side dishes to prepare and savor. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved classic in so many kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole is in its simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create layers of flavor and texture—from the creamy mashed squash to the crunchy topping. These are basic, easy-to-find staples that make the dish comforting and familiar, yet special enough to impress.
- Butternut squash (3 pounds, peeled, seeded, and cubed): The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the squash.
- Large eggs (2, lightly beaten): Help bind the casserole together and give it a tender, custard-like finish.
- Whole milk (1/4 cup): Enhances creaminess and richness in the squash mixture.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Infuses the casserole with buttery goodness and moistness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spice that pairs perfectly with the squash.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Provides an earthy undertone that makes the casserole cozy and fragrant.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances flavors and brightens the dish.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed) for the topping: Gives the crunch topping its deep sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (1/3 cup) for the topping: Helps create that perfect crumbly texture.
- Cold unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, cubed) for the topping: Key for a golden-brown, buttery crunch.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup, optional) for the topping: Adds a lovely nutty crunch and richness.
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures the casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly with a beautifully browned edge—no one wants to fight to get it out!
Step 2: Cook the Butternut Squash
Place the cubed butternut squash in a large pot, cover it with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 15 to 20 minutes or until the squash is very tender when pierced. Draining well here is essential to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole too watery.
Step 3: Mash or Blend the Squash
For that rich, creamy texture, mash the cooked squash until smooth by hand or give it a quick whirl in the blender. Either way, measure about 4 cups of the mashed squash and transfer it into a large mixing bowl—this is your casserole’s velvety base.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Into the bowl with the mashed squash, stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything until the batter is fully combined and wonderfully smooth. This mix is what gives the casserole its delicate, custardy feel with a perfect hint of spice.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the smooth squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. This even layer will bake uniformly, ensuring a perfect set and a dish that cuts like a dream.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the cold, cubed butter with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture turns crumbly. If you love a bit of extra crunch and nuttiness, stir in chopped pecans—it’s a game-changer.
Step 7: Add the Crunchy Top Layer
Sprinkle this crumbly topping evenly over the squash mixture. This step is vital because that golden, buttery topping will give each bite a satisfying contrast to the soft casserole underneath.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the casserole for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving so the slices hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate the look and flavor by adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few extra toasted pecans right before serving. If you’re feeling festive, a light dusting of cinnamon on top adds a cozy aroma that welcomes everyone to the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole is such a fantastic side that it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a lovely balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a pretty presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties. You can also layer it in a trifle dish for a fun twist, alternating squash layers with a dollop of sour cream or whipped cream cheese to add a tangy counterpoint.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers fresh by transferring them into an airtight container and refrigerating for up to four days. The casserole actually tastes even better the next day because the flavors deepen and meld.
Freezing
This Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with baking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible as the topping can lose its crispness. You want that glorious crunch with every bite!
FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute frozen butternut squash if fresh is not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it very well before using to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use a non-dairy butter alternative for both the casserole and topping to keep it creamy and delicious.
How sweet is the casserole? Can I adjust the sweetness?
The casserole is moderately sweet, with a tender balance of natural squash sweetness and added sugars. You can reduce the granulated sugar from 1/2 cup to 1/3 cup for a less sweet, more savory flavor profile.
What if I don’t like pecans or have allergies?
You can simply omit the pecans from the topping or swap them for another nut like walnuts, or even use toasted coconut flakes for a different crunch. The topping will still be delicious without nuts.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a side dish that is both comforting and easy to make, this Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is absolutely a must-try. It’s the kind of dish that brings a warm smile to your face and a little bit of joy to your meal. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a cozy weeknight, this casserole is bound to become one of your new favorites. Go ahead, grab a squash, and get cooking—you won’t regret it!
Print
Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Butternut Squash Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for fall and holiday meals. Tender mashed butternut squash is combined with warm spices, sweetened lightly, and baked with a crumbly pecan topping that adds a delightful crunch. This classic American casserole is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Butternut Squash: Place the cubed butternut squash in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the squash is very tender. Drain well to remove excess water.
- Mash the Squash: Mash the cooked squash until smooth using a masher, or blend it in a food processor for a creamier texture. Measure about 4 cups of the mashed squash and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Casserole Base: Add the granulated sugar, beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed squash. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Fill the Baking Dish: Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even layer.
- Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans if using.
- Top the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping mixture over the spread squash in the baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the topping is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother casserole texture, puree the cooked squash in a food processor before mixing.
- To reduce sweetness, decrease the granulated sugar in the base to 1/3 cup.
- This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated, then baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
