Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

Save this recipe on:

Warm, comforting, and subtly sweet, Apple Butternut Squash Casserole is the kind of dish that instantly evokes the cozy feelings of fall. The natural sweetness of apples and roasted butternut squash comes together with a buttery, crispy topping to create a savory-sweet balance that is both rustic and elegant. Each bite is packed with flavor and texture—from tender fruit and squash to the golden, crunchy topping. It’s a casserole that feels familiar but stands out with its unique combination of ingredients.

This dish is perfect for holiday tables, potlucks, or weeknight dinners where you want something hearty yet healthy. It’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a main for a vegetarian meal, or as a delightful side dish alongside roasted meats. Whether you’re embracing autumn’s bounty or just need a new food idea that’s simple and satisfying, this casserole delivers.

---

Why You’ll Love This Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

• A perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• Ideal for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
• Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free.
• Great for holidays or comforting weeknight meals.
• Kid-friendly, yet sophisticated enough for dinner parties.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making this cozy casserole, gather your tools for a smooth cooking process. You’ll need:

• Cutting board and chef’s knife: Essential for peeling and chopping the apples and butternut squash.
• Vegetable peeler: Helps to efficiently peel the squash.
• Large mixing bowl: For tossing the ingredients together evenly.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: The ideal size for even cooking and layering.
• Oven and timer: Ensures precise baking so the topping is golden and the interior is soft.
• Measuring cups/spoons: To keep flavor proportions accurate.

Using quality tools not only saves time but also enhances the final result—uniformly chopped ingredients cook evenly, and the right baking dish prevents burning or undercooking.

---

Preparation Tips

Start by selecting firm, ripe apples—Fuji or Honeycrisp work well for their sweet-tart flavor and ability to hold shape. When dealing with butternut squash, microwave it for 2-3 minutes first to make peeling easier. Chop ingredients to similar sizes so they cook evenly. Don’t skip tossing the apple and squash with spices before baking—this step infuses flavor into every bite. For the topping, you can mix crushed crackers or fried onions with a touch of melted butter for that irresistible crunch. Lastly, let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to help everything set and make serving neater.

---

Ingredients for this Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 1 small squash)
• 2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan or sharp cheddar (optional, for savory version)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (thyme, sage, or rosemary)
• 1/2 cup crispy fried onions or crushed crackers (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (to mix with topping)

---

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or butter. This step ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and creates a golden crust along the edges.

---

Step 2: Prep the Produce

Peel the butternut squash and dice it into 1-inch cubes. Core and chop the apples into bite-sized chunks, leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrition. Try to keep everything uniform in size so the bake is even.

---

Step 3: Season the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed squash and chopped apples. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, sprinkle in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add maple syrup or honey if you want more sweetness. Toss well until all the pieces are evenly coated.

---

Step 4: Layer and Add Extras

Pour the seasoned mix into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you’re going for a more savory profile, sprinkle grated cheese throughout the layers. Add half of your chopped fresh herbs for that deep, aromatic flavor.

---

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or fried onions with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will bake into a crispy, flavorful topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.

---

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes. The squash should be fork-tender and the topping golden brown. If the topping starts to brown too early, you can cover loosely with foil for the remaining bake time.

---

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining fresh herbs over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute and the casserole sets slightly.

---

Notes

This Apple Butternut Squash Casserole is incredibly adaptable. You can lean it more sweet or savory depending on your preferences. For a sweeter dish, opt for extra maple syrup and even add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped pecans. For a more savory route, increase the herbs and incorporate cheese for added depth. It’s a great make-ahead option: prep it the night before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. It’s also naturally gluten-free if you choose a gluten-free topping.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the squash: It should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on your oven during the final 10 minutes.
• Skipping the seasoning: The flavor depends heavily on the spice mix—don’t be shy with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and herbs.
• Uneven chopping: If your apples and squash aren’t evenly sized, they’ll cook unevenly and affect texture.
• Too much topping: A thick layer can become soggy—stick to a thin, even spread for a crisp finish.
• Not letting it rest: This step helps everything set and makes slicing easier, with less liquid pooling at the bottom.

---

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 180mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole vegan?

Yes! Simply use olive oil instead of butter, skip the cheese, and ensure your topping is vegan (like crushed vegan crackers).

Which apples work best?

Use firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Absolutely. Just thaw and pat dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of fried onions on top?

Crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed nuts work well as alternatives.

Can I add protein to this dish?

You can mix in cooked sausage or shredded chicken to turn it into a main dish.

How do I make it sweeter?

Add more maple syrup or toss in dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates.

Can I bake this in a smaller dish?

Yes, but you’ll likely need to adjust the baking time. A smaller, deeper dish will take longer to cook through.

---

Conclusion

Apple Butternut Squash Casserole is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays or just craving something comforting, this casserole offers the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and endlessly customizable. From first bite to last, it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients and wholesome comfort.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: