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
Scale
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
