Warm up your dinner table with this deliciously cozy butternut squash casserole recipe! Packed with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, cheddar cheese, and fragrant spices, this dish is not only nutritious but also irresistibly tasty. It's perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress everyone with your culinary skills!
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed under cold water
2 cups vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium recommended)
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese variety)
1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (for added nutrition)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
![- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes - 1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed under cold water - 2 cups vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium recommended) - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Butternut squash is the star here. It gives the dish a creamy texture and a sweet flavor. You want to pick a squash that feels heavy for its size and has smooth skin. The quinoa adds protein and a nice bite to the dish. Make sure to rinse it well. This helps remove bitterness and makes it fluffier. The vegetable broth adds depth and aroma. You can use homemade or a good store-bought brand. - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese variety) - 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (for added nutrition) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) The cheese creates a melty, delicious layer on top. Sharp cheddar works great, but feel free to mix it up. The whole wheat breadcrumbs add crunch and a bit of fiber. Drizzling olive oil on the breadcrumbs helps them crisp up nicely. Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a bright flavor that contrasts well with the squash. - Rinsing quinoa: Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes the saponins, which can make quinoa taste bitter. - Selecting the right butternut squash: Look for a heavy squash with smooth skin. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes. - Optional seasoning suggestions: You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Try using smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. I love these tips because they help you achieve the best taste and texture. With these ingredients and notes, you’re well on your way to a wonderful butternut squash casserole. For the complete method, check out the Full Recipe. How to peel and cube butternut squash Start by cutting off both ends of the butternut squash. Use a sharp peeler to remove the skin. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Finally, chop the squash into 1-inch cubes. Properly rinsing quinoa To rinse quinoa, place it in a fine mesh strainer. Run cold water over it for about 1 minute. This helps remove any bitter coating. Shake off excess water before using it in the recipe. Sautéing onions and garlic In a large skillet, heat olive oil on medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir until the onion turns soft and slightly golden. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for 2 more minutes. Incorporating spices Next, sprinkle in ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to mix spices with the onion and garlic. This step creates a fragrant base for your casserole. Mixing ingredients and pouring into the baking dish In a big bowl, add cubed butternut squash, rinsed quinoa, and vegetable broth. Pour in the sautéed onion and garlic mix. Stir everything together until well combined. Then, transfer this mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Adding cheese and breadcrumbs Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Follow with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. This adds both flavor and texture to the casserole. Covering with foil and cooking time Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This keeps moisture inside while baking. Place it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Final baking without foil for a golden top After 30 minutes, take off the foil. Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Watch for a golden top and tender squash. A fork should easily pierce the squash when done. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To ensure tender butternut squash, cut it into even 1-inch cubes. This helps it cook evenly. Roast for about 30 minutes to soften it before adding to the casserole. For a crispy breadcrumb topping, toast the breadcrumbs in olive oil before sprinkling them on top. This small step gives your casserole a delightful crunch. You can add herbs or spices to change the taste. Try fresh thyme or sage for a warm, earthy flavor. For a twist, use smoked paprika or chili powder for a kick. You can also swap the cheese. Use mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for a tangy zing. Each cheese brings its own magic to the dish. Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a warm feel. For an upgrade, layer extra cheese on top before baking. This enhances both flavor and looks. Garnish with fresh parsley for color. You might also add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a pop of color and heat. {{image_4}} You can easily make this casserole vegetarian or vegan. For a dairy-free version, swap out the cheese. Use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese that melts well. This adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also add more veggies. Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. They will mix well with the squash and spices. You can sneak in some extra nutrients, which is always a win! Cranberries or nuts can give your casserole a nice twist. Add a cup of dried cranberries for sweetness. Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor. They also give your dish a festive touch. You might also try seasonal spices. In the fall, cinnamon and nutmeg shine. In spring, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a bright flavor. Adjust the spices to match the season and your taste. Pair your casserole with simple sides. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables work well. They bring balance to the rich flavors of the dish. Got leftovers? Transform them into a new meal! You can use the casserole as a filling for wraps or tacos. Or, serve it over a bed of greens for a light lunch. The options are endless, and you'll love the variety! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Once it cools, cover it tightly. You can use plastic wrap or a lid. In the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure to check for odors before you eat it again. You can freeze butternut squash casserole before or after baking. If you freeze it before baking, cover it well. Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it with plastic wrap. To freeze after baking, let it cool first, then wrap it. It stays good for about 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot. To prevent sogginess, let the casserole cool before storing. Also, avoid covering it too tightly. Use containers that allow some air to escape. Glass or plastic containers with a loose lid work well. This keeps the texture nice and helps the flavors stay fresh. Baking butternut squash casserole takes about 45 to 50 minutes. First, cover it with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. This method helps keep it moist and allows the top to get golden brown. Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day. When you are ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it easy for busy days. If you want to replace quinoa, try using brown rice or farro. Both options work well and give a nice texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid needed based on what you choose. Yes, butternut squash casserole is quite healthy. It is full of vitamins and minerals from the squash and quinoa. The cheese adds some calcium, while the whole wheat breadcrumbs increase fiber. It is a balanced dish that tastes great too. Yes, you can easily double or halve the recipe. Just adjust the amounts of each ingredient. Use a larger or smaller baking dish based on your serving needs. This flexibility makes it perfect for gatherings or small family meals. This post covered a tasty butternut squash casserole recipe. You learned about each ingredient, from the squash to the toppings. I shared tips on preparation, ensuring perfect texture, and ways to use leftovers. Cooking should be fun and creative. Feel free to experiment with flavors and textures. Enjoy making this dish your own, and share it with others. Happy cooking!](https://roastedflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/de4df7fa-b436-47f4-ace5-8c52966e293c-300x300.webp)