Butternut squash casserole is one of those dishes that brings everyone together.

Its smooth, earthy flavor, lightly sweetened and topped with a hint of crunch, makes it unforgettable.

This recipe has just the right balance—rich but not heavy, sweet without being overly so, and it’s as simple to prepare as it is enjoyable to eat.

It’s a go-to choice for anyone who wants to create a memorable side dish that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes every gathering feel special.

Here’s a straightforward recipe to make a butternut squash casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt

For The Topping

• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon flour
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1½ cups pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Rinse the butternut squash thoroughly. Cut it in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.
2. Rub each half of the squash with 1 tablespoon of butter, then sprinkle salt and brown sugar evenly over the top. Place the squash halves face up on a baking sheet and roast at 375°F for about 1 hour. Depending on the squash size, check between 45 to 90 minutes by gently pressing on the thickest part of the squash—it should feel soft.
3. Once cooked, let the squash cool for a few minutes. Use a spoon to scoop out the soft flesh into a bowl, then mash it well with a potato masher. Spread the mashed squash evenly in a casserole dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and chopped pecans until well combined.
5. Pour the topping mixture over the mashed squash in the casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.

What To Serve With Butternut Squash Casserole?

Butternut squash casserole goes well with many dishes, whether for a holiday meal or a regular dinner. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:

• Roast Chicken or Turkey: The mild sweetness of the casserole complements savory roasted poultry beautifully.
• Grilled or Baked Fish: Light fish like salmon or cod balance the richness of the casserole.
• Green Vegetables: Serve it with steamed or roasted green beans, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli for a fresh contrast.
• Salads: A crisp, leafy salad with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing side that pairs well with the creamy casserole.
• Dinner Rolls or Bread: Fresh rolls or cornbread make the meal feel complete, adding a soft texture to go with the creamy casserole.

How To Store Butternut Squash Casserole?

Storing leftover casserole properly helps keep it fresh and tasty for later. Here’s how:

• Cool First: Let the casserole cool completely before storing it.
• Refrigerate: Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil, then place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3–4 days.
• Individual Portions: For easier reheating, consider storing it in single-serving portions.

Can Butternut Squash Casserole Be Frozen?

Yes, you can freeze butternut squash casserole, and it still tastes great afterward. Freezing it properly will keep it fresh and flavorful:

• Cool Completely: Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, or tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Label: Label the container with the date, so you know when it was frozen.

Frozen butternut squash casserole can be stored for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the oven until heated through.

Can Butternut Squash Casserole Be Made Ahead?

Yes, making butternut squash casserole ahead of time is easy and convenient. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:

1. Prepare the Casserole: Follow the recipe up to the baking step, but don’t add the topping.
2. Refrigerate: Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
3. Add Topping Before Baking: When you’re ready to bake, sprinkle on the topping and bake as directed.

Tips For Making The Best Butternut Squash Casserole

Creating a delicious butternut squash casserole can be easy if you keep a few helpful tips in mind. Here are some ways to make it taste amazing and come out perfectly every time:

• Choose a Ripe Squash: A ripe butternut squash has a deep beige color and feels firm. Avoid squash with green patches or soft spots.
• Drain Excess Moisture: Squash can release water when cooked. After roasting, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently press with a paper towel to absorb any extra liquid.
• Don’t Overmash: Mashing the squash too much can make it too soft and watery. Mash it lightly to keep some texture.
• Balance the Topping: If you’re using a sweet topping, make sure it’s not too thick. A thin, even layer lets the flavors blend without overpowering the squash.
• Add the Topping Last: To keep the topping crisp, add it just before baking instead of mixing it in.

Why Is My Butternut Squash Casserole Watery?

A watery casserole can happen for a few reasons, but you can avoid it with some simple adjustments. Here’s why it might turn out too watery and how to fix it:

1. High Water Content in Squash
   Butternut squash naturally has a lot of water. Roasting it well and letting it sit after cooking allows some moisture to evaporate, which keeps the casserole from becoming watery.
2. Skipping the Draining Step
   After roasting, if you don’t drain or blot the squash with a paper towel, the extra liquid can make the dish watery. Removing any excess moisture helps the casserole set well.
3. Overmashing the Squash
   Squash that’s mashed too finely can release more water. A light mashing keeps the texture intact and reduces extra liquid.
4. Covering the Dish While Baking
   Covering the casserole while baking traps steam, which can make it watery. Bake it uncovered, so any moisture can escape, leaving a creamier texture.