Delicious Baked Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and vegetarian-friendly dish that tantalizes your taste buds? Look no further than the Baked Butternut Squash Casserole! This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, packed with vitamins and nutrients. It's an excellent choice for home cooks, vegetarians, and those who prioritize healthy eating.

Ingredients

To make this wholesome casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish

Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare the butternut squash for your casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the squash: Start by cutting off both ends of the squash. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes.
3. Season the squash: Place the cubed squash in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast the squash: Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Assembly

Now it’s time to assemble your casserole:

1. Grease a casserole dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Layer the ingredients:

• Begin with a layer of roasted butternut squash at the bottom of the dish.
• If using cheese, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese over the squash.
• Continue layering until all the squash (and cheese, if using) are used up.

3. Top it off:

• If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top layer.
• Optionally, add a final sprinkle of cheese on top of the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Baking

For the perfect baked butternut squash casserole:

1. Preheat your oven (if it’s not already from roasting the squash) to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the casserole in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Storage

Here’s how to enjoy and store your casserole:

• Serving:
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added burst of flavor and color.
• Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Storage:
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

Conclusion

Give this Baked Butternut Squash Casserole a try—it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's both nutritious and delicious. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe offers versatility and health benefits that make it a standout dish in any meal plan. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delightful casserole with family and friends!