Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction to Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

Butternut squash and apple casserole is a heartwarming dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a comforting meal that is ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Roasting the butternut squash and apples enhances their natural sweetness, while the savory sausage and aromatic herbs provide depth and richness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to impress your loved ones.

A Personal Story Behind My Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of sharing hearty meals during the colder months. One of my fondest memories is gathering around the dinner table with my parents and siblings, savoring a warm casserole that filled the house with an inviting aroma. The butternut squash and apple casserole became a staple in our home, symbolizing comfort and togetherness. Today, I continue this tradition, sharing this recipe with my own family and friends, and it never fails to bring smiles to our faces.

What Makes This Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole Recipe Special?

This casserole stands out for its delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the Honeycrisp apples pairs beautifully with the earthy butternut squash, while the savory Italian sausage adds a satisfying heartiness. The combination of dried sage and Herbes de Provence infuses the dish with aromatic notes, making every bite a delightful experience. Additionally, the melted Gruyere cheese on top creates a rich, creamy finish that elevates the casserole. This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.

The Full Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and cubed
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Herbes de Provence
• 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, crumbled
• 2 small fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil sprayed with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash and apples. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence. Toss to coat well.
3. Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender. This roasting process caramelizes the sugars, enhancing the flavors.
4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the crumbled sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Make sure to cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned for the best flavor.
5. If needed, add a little more oil to the skillet. Caramelize the sliced fennel and onion for 10-12 minutes until golden and jammy. This step adds a sweet depth to the dish.
6. Once the squash and apples are roasted, switch the oven to broil.
7. Combine the roasted squash and apples with the sausage, fennel, and onion mixture in a bowl. Add the remaining maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Transfer the mixture to a medium baking dish. This helps in even cooking and easy serving.
9. If using fried sage leaves, heat 1/4 cup of oil in a small saucepan. Fry the sage leaves for about 20 seconds, then drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt for a crispy garnish.
10. Top the casserole with grated Gruyere cheese and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
11. Garnish with fried or fresh sage leaves before serving to add a touch of elegance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

This casserole can be served as a main course or as a side dish alongside roasted meats or a fresh salad. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. You can also experiment with different cheeses or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. This dish is perfect for meal prep—make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal during the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this butternut squash and apple casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is traditional, you can try acorn or delicata squash for a different flavor and texture.

Recipe Stats:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 6

Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

A comforting casserole featuring sweet butternut squash and Honeycrisp apples, topped with savory sausage and Gruyere cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Baking sheet For roasting the squash and apples.
• Skillet For cooking the sausage and vegetables.
• Medium Baking Dish For assembling the casserole.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 units Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 0.5 pound sweet Italian sausage, crumbled
• 2 small fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
• 1 unit onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• salt
• black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon dried sage
• 1.5 teaspoons Herbes de Provence
• olive oil

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil sprayed with cooking spray.
• In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash and apples. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence. Toss to coat well.
• Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender.
• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the crumbled sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• If needed, add a little more oil to the skillet. Caramelize the sliced fennel and onion for 10-12 minutes until golden and jammy.
• Once the squash and apples are roasted, switch the oven to broil.
• Combine the roasted squash and apples with the sausage, fennel, and onion mixture in a bowl. Add the remaining maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Transfer the mixture to a medium baking dish.
• If using fried sage leaves, heat oil in a small saucepan. Fry the sage leaves for about 20 seconds, then drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
• Top the casserole with grated Gruyere cheese and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
• Garnish with fried or fresh sage leaves before serving to add a touch of elegance.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Keyword Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole Recipe