Autumn Butternut Casserole
A cozy autumn casserole blending sweet butternut squash with tender baked apples, topped with crunchy pecan and cornflake streusel, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the cooked and mashed butternut squash with 1/4 cup butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and white pepper.
- Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over low heat; add the sliced unpared Jonathan apples.
- Sprinkle the apples with 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
- Cover and simmer until the apples are barely tender, about 5 minutes.
- Spread the cooked apples evenly in a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Spoon the seasoned mashed squash over the apples.
- Mix cornflakes with pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and melted butter to make the streusel topping.
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the squash layer.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the butternut squash mixture. If Jonathan apples aren't available, consider using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a similar tartness. You can also substitute the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free cornflakes in the streusel topping.
Serving Suggestions
This Autumn Butternut Casserole makes a delightful side dish for Thanksgiving or a cozy fall dinner. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian options like Fast Crustless Quiche. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or Green Beans With Hazelnut-Lemon Butter for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick option, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Autumn Butternut Casserole contains roughly 2005 calories, with 0g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 180g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking and prevent cracking.
What can I use instead of butter in the recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The flavor will slightly differ, but it will still create a deliciously moist casserole. Just ensure that the substitute is suitable for baking and has a similar fat content.
How do I make the casserole vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but to enhance the nutrition, you can add cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein. Additionally, feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or kale into the butternut squash layer for an extra nutrient boost.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).