Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole combines the natural sweetness of fall produce with the savory depth of caramelized vegetables and sausage. The layers of roasted butternut squash and apples, enhanced by a drizzle of maple syrup and aromatic herbs, create an irresistible flavor profile. Its comforting textures and vibrant autumn colors not only delight the palate but also bring warmth to your table, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed into medium-size chunks
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and cubed into larger chunks
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground, dried sage
- 1 ½ teaspoons Herbes de Provence
- ½ pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
- 2 small fennel bulbs, trimmed, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, quartered and thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- Fresh sage leaves (fresh or fried), for garnish
directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil lightly coated with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and apples with olive oil, salt, black pepper, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly golden.
- While the squash and apples roast, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Transfer the sausage to a bowl.
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced fennel and onion. Sauté over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until deeply caramelized and slightly jammy.
- Combine the roasted squash and apple mixture with the sausage and caramelized vegetables in a large bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and toss to combine.
- Transfer the mixture into a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 9 by 13 inches). Top with the grated Gruyere cheese.
- Switch your oven setting to broil and place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and turns golden-brown.
- Garnish with fresh or fried sage leaves and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
- Yield: Serves 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes
Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe:
- For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sweet Italian sausage and consider a vegan cheese alternative.
- Substitute the Gruyere cheese with mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, or even crumbled brie for a different flavor twist.
- Adjust the herbs and seasonings to suit your taste; for instance, try adding a pinch of rosemary or oregano for an extra aromatic touch.
- If fennel isn’t to your liking, replace it with additional onions or even leeks for a milder flavor.
storage/reheating
This casserole can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature, then preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer a freshly melted cheese topping, add the cheese just before reheating and broil for the final few minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can simply omit the sweet Italian sausage and, if desired, use a vegan cheese alternative to keep the dish completely vegetarian.
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
It is best to use fresh butternut squash, as frozen squash tends to release too much water and can result in a mushy texture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can roast the squash and apples and cook the sausage and vegetables in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble the casserole with the cheese right before serving.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Other good options include Golden Delicious, Gala, or Jonagold.
Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Yes, you may substitute with turkey sausage or another variety of your choice. For a lighter dish, you can also leave it out entirely.
Can I swap Gruyere cheese for a different cheese?
Certainly. Cheeses such as mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, or even crumbled brie can be used depending on your flavor preference.
How can I tell when the squash is perfectly roasted?
The squash should be tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork and lightly golden around the edges.
Is it possible to adjust the recipe for a smaller serving size?
Yes, simply reduce the ingredient amounts proportionally to suit a smaller batch if needed.
Can leftovers be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the roasted squash may become mushy upon thawing.
How should I store any leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Conclusion
This butternut squash casserole is a delightful celebration of fall flavors, perfectly balancing sweet and savory elements with a comforting texture that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty side for a holiday meal or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight dinner, its vibrant ingredients and versatile nature are sure to impress. Enjoy the seasonal goodness and warm your home with this delicious recipe.
Butternut Squash Casserole
This Butternut Squash Casserole is a delightful blend of autumn flavors, combining roasted butternut squash and apples with sweet Italian sausage, caramelized fennel, and onions, all topped with melted Gruyere cheese. It’s a comforting dish perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and cubed
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground dried sage
- 1½ teaspoons Herbes de Provence
- ½ pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
- 2 small fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Squash and Apples: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash and apples with olive oil, salt, pepper, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the crumbled sweet Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Caramelize Fennel and Onions: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the sliced fennel and onion until deeply golden and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash and apples, cooked sausage, and caramelized fennel and onions. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and toss gently to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a medium-sized (approximately 9×13 inches) baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese evenly over the top. Place under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and golden-brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh sage leaves and serve warm.
Notes:
- Vegetarian Option: To make this casserole vegetarian, omit the sweet Italian sausage.
- Cheese Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, consider using sharp white cheddar or fontina cheese in place of Gruyere.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Details:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Category: Side Method: Baking Cuisine: American Diet: Gluten-Free Keywords: Butternut squash casserole, fall recipes, roasted butternut squash, savory casserole, autumn dishes
This recipe offers a harmonious blend of sweet and savory elements, making it a standout addition to any meal. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting textures.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: To make this casserole vegetarian, omit the sweet Italian sausage.
- Cheese Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, consider using sharp white cheddar or fontina cheese in place of Gruyere.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
