If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and downright delicious, this Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is absolutely the dish you need in your life. Imagine tender, naturally sweet butternut squash combined with cauliflower and bold flavors from aged cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. This casserole balances savory and sweet while being incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect go-to for weeknights or holiday gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing a unique flavor or texture that makes this casserole so irresistible. From the sweetness of the butternut squash to the creamy tang of the celery soup, everything works together to create a harmonious dish that’s full of character.
- 2 cups of cauliflower cloves: Adds a mild nutty flavor and a lovely texture contrast.
- 2 cups of butternut squash (cubed): The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a beautiful orange hue.
- 1/2 cup of diced red onions: Lends a sharp and slightly sweet undertone that wakes up the dish.
- 1 cup of Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, umami richness that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances all the natural ingredients without overpowering them.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to keep things interesting.
- 1 can of celery soup: Acts as a creamy binder that ties everything together perfectly.
- Aged cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, melty finish that’s pure comfort food magic.
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by peeling and cubing the butternut squash into even pieces so they cook uniformly. Next, carefully separate the cauliflower into small florets. Dice the red onions finely; these will infuse the casserole with a gentle sweetness as they cook.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, cauliflower florets, and diced red onions. Pour in the can of celery soup, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper. This mixture should be creamy and well-coated. The celery soup is the secret that brings moisture and creaminess without needing extra heavy ingredients.
Step 3: Transfer and Top
Grease your casserole dish lightly with butter or oil, then transfer the vegetable mixture evenly. Next, generously sprinkle aged cheddar cheese over the top—this will melt into a glorious golden crust during baking. The cheese not only adds flavor but a wonderful texture contrast between creamy inside and crispy top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when a fork slides easily into the squash and cauliflower, and the aroma fills your kitchen with irresistible warmth.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top your casserole with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and a fresh flavor boost that brightens the richness of the dish. A light sprinkle of crushed walnuts or toasted pecans can add an exciting crunch and nutty aroma as well.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted meats. For a classic combo, serve alongside roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. If keeping it vegetarian, consider quinoa or wild rice for a wholesome grain side that complements the squash’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve your Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Alternatively, layering the casserole with caramelized onions or a crunchy breadcrumb topping can elevate it further for dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with foil or transfer into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese regains its melty texture, typically around 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave but for the best texture, the oven is preferred.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the Parmesan and cheddar for vegan cheese alternatives and use a dairy-free cream soup or a homemade cashew cream instead of celery soup. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying.
Is it necessary to use cauliflower in the recipe?
Cauliflower adds texture and balances the sweetness of the butternut squash but you can substitute with broccoli or even sweet potatoes if you prefer. Just keep the same quantity for consistent cooking times.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole a day before baking, cover it well, and keep it refrigerated. Just add the cheese topping right before putting it in the oven to get that perfectly golden crust.
What’s the best way to peel butternut squash?
Using a sharp vegetable peeler or a small, sturdy paring knife works best. It might take a little patience, but peeling a butternut squash is quite manageable with proper technique!
Can I add herbs or other spices?
Definitely! Fresh sage, rosemary, or thyme can add lovely earthy notes to the casserole. For a little warmth, a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika works wonders too.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is a true all-star in my kitchen—so simple yet packing a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you look forward to mealtime. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a cherished favorite in your rotation.
Print
Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Butternut Squash Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender butternut squash and cauliflower with savory celery soup, parmesan, and aged cheddar cheese. Perfect as a side or a vegetarian main, it’s simple to prepare and bakes to a golden, cheesy perfection in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1/2 cup diced red onions
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- Aged cheddar cheese, for topping (approximately 1 cup shredded)
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed celery soup
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, cubed butternut squash, and diced red onions. This mix forms the hearty base of the casserole.
- Mix with Soup and Seasoning: Add the can of celery soup, sea salt, and black pepper to the vegetables. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated, which will create a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Fold in the parmesan cheese into the vegetable and soup mixture, distributing it evenly to add depth and richness to the casserole.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer for uniform cooking.
- Top with Aged Cheddar: Generously sprinkle the shredded aged cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a beautiful golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a comforting side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Notes
- You can substitute the celery soup with a homemade creamy sauce for a fresher taste.
- Adding breadcrumbs on top before baking can give a crunchy texture.
- For a vegan version, replace dairy cheese with vegan alternatives and use a vegan cream soup.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or a fresh green salad.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
