This butternut squash casserole is so rich and comforting, it makes the perfect side dish for fall.
Cubed butternut squash and apples are cooked with buttery brown sugar, cinnamon and pecans for a sweet, nutty and delicious side dish.
When it comes to cool weather comfort food, there’s nothing quite like this recipe for butternut squash casserole.
A Cozy Side Dish!
- This butternut squash casserole recipe is so warm and comforting, perfect for cool fall weather.
- It makes a delicious festive side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey, especially along with an apple grape salad. But it’s also delicious served any time of year with a pork loin or baked chicken thighs.
- This dish can be modified to suit various tastes and dietary preferences with simple changes to the recipe.
What Do I Need To Make Butternut Squash Casserole?
Squash – A butternut squash has a sweet, nutty flavor and smooth texture. Look for a medium sized squash with a firm skin and without blemishes.
Apples – Use apples that will remain firm when cooked such as Granny Smith or Gala apples. But regarding flavor, any apple will do!
For Sweetness – Use dark brown sugar for this recipe, however light brown sugar will work equally well. Add in or replace brown sugar with maple syrup if desired. Use a sugar substitute such as Swerve brown sugar if you or your guests have this dietary requirement.
For Crunch – Pecans give this dish a delicious bit of crunchy texture in every bite. Walnuts work equally well, and can be used in place of pecans.
For Spice – Cinnamon is all the spice needed for this dish, but add in a pinch of nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice or even a small dash of cloves if desired. And if you like more cinnamon flavor, add to your liking!
How To Make Butternut Squash Casserole
- Preheat oven, grease casserole dish.
- Cut butternut squash, remove seeds, peel and cube. Add to casserole dish.
- Mix together butter, brown sugar, cinnamon and nuts.
- Core and chop apples. Add to the squash. Add the brown sugar mixture and toss.
- Bake uncovered, (according to recipe below).
Recipe Tips
- Use food safe gloves to peel and chop the squash. Working with butternut squash using bare hands may leave them feeling very dry, and can stain an orange color. Alternately, purchase butternut squash pre-peeled and chopped for added convenience.
- Prior to prepping the apples, be sure to get all the other ingredients prepped and ready. The less time the apples are exposed to the air, the less they will brown. If you must prep ahead of time, pour a dash of lemon juice over the apples and toss to prevent them from browning too much.
- Make this casserole a day ahead of time, and simply microwave before serving. The flavors will have had a chance to blend together for an even tastier dish.
Leftover Butternut Squash Casserole
Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This casserole can be reheated in the microwave, or covered in the oven with a lid or foil. Add a touch of butter and even a bit of maple syrup to loosen it up.
Blend leftovers and add to soups, or use as a condiment.
Other Holiday Sides!
Have you tried this Butternut Squash Casserole with apples recipe? Leave a comment and rating below!
Butternut Squash Casserole With Apples
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
- 2 apples
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon or more to your liking
- 1 Tablespoon flour
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325˚F. Butter a 2 quart casserole dish, or spray with pan release.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour and nuts. Set aside.
- Cut butternut squash in half and remove seeds. Peel the squash, then cut into 1 inch cubes. Add to casserole dish.
- Core apples and cut into 1 inch cubes. Add to the butternut squash.
- Add the brown sugar mixture to the squash and apples. Mix slightly.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour.
Notes
- Use food safe gloves when working with butternut squash.
- Prepare all ingredients before peeling the apples. Toss apples with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning when exposed to the air.
- Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in the oven covered with foil.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.
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4star so good !!!!
Thank you so much, Fern! We are happy you love it!
I want this for thanksgiving!