Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It perfectly blends the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the subtle bite of red onions, creamy cauliflower, and a luscious mix of Parmesan and aged cheddar cheeses. The celery soup binds everything into a comforting, rich casserole that’s ideal for family dinners or even holiday gatherings. This recipe is an accessible way to add a festive, wholesome side or even a vegetarian main that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to nailing this casserole. Each component brings something special—whether it’s texture, flavor, or creaminess—to the final dish. You won’t need any fancy items, just pantry staples that work beautifully together.

• Sea salt: Just a teaspoon to enhance and balance the natural sweetness of the squash and cauliflower.
• Diced red onions: Half a cup adds a mild, slightly sweet punch that mellows out when baked.
• Celery soup (Campbell’s recommended): One can for that rich, creamy base that binds everything effortlessly.
• Cauliflower florets: Two cups provide a subtle earthiness and lovely texture contrast.
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred): One cup for a sharp, nutty depth that brightens up the casserole.
• Butternut squash, cubed: Two cups as the star ingredient, bringing sweetness, smoothness, and color.
• Black pepper: A teaspoon to add a gentle kick that balances the richness.
• Aged cheddar cheese (shredded): A generous topping for a bubbly, golden crust and bold flavor.

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by placing the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Add the cubed butternut squash and diced red onions to the bowl to build the fresh veggie base. This fresh trio creates a fantastic foundation of flavors and textures that will soften and meld beautifully in the oven.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Next, pour in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The sharp, salty Parmesan will amplify the flavor factor even before baking. Sprinkle in the sea salt and black pepper; these seasonings are just enough to season the veggies without overpowering their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Mix and Combine

Pour the can of celery soup into the mix for a creamy, comforting binder. Use a large spoon or spatula to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the cheese, soup, and seasoning coat every bit of veggie. This step is critical to achieving a uniform, luscious casserole texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer this heavenly mixture into a square baking dish, spreading it evenly so every bite is loaded with veggies and cheese. Finally, blanket the top with a generous layer of shredded aged cheddar cheese—this will melt into a gorgeous, bubbly, golden crust during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. The goal is the perfect melt on the cheddar topping and tender, roasted vegetables underneath. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges bubble and the cheese turns golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to settle. This waiting time helps everything firm up slightly for cleaner serving and allows those flavors to mingle even more intensely. Scoop out warm portions and get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme just before serving. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top adds rustic charm and an inviting aroma right at the table.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or turkey for a hearty meal. Alternatively, a bright, crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy richness and adds a refreshing contrast to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or make this dish more festive? Serve in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to showcase the vibrant colors of squash, cauliflower, and cheese—a real eye-catcher on any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day enjoyment.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. For best results, assemble the dish but hold off on baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick fix or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Adding a splash of broth before reheating can help maintain moisture and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you use frozen, just thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Is this casserole suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly as written. Just ensure your celery soup is vegetarian, as some brands may contain meat-based ingredients.

Can I substitute other cheeses in the Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe?

You can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a sharp white cheddar for the topping. Just remember, the flavors and melt qualities will vary slightly but remain delicious.

What if I don’t have celery soup? Any alternatives?

You can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup if you’re not strictly vegetarian. Another alternative is making a homemade white sauce to maintain control over ingredients and flavor.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check that the celery soup and cheeses are certified gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten sources.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is such a treasure in the kitchen, combining simplicity with comforting flavors that feel truly special. It’s a perfect way to elevate seasonal vegetables without spending hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to try it—it might just become your new go-to dish for cozy dinners and celebratory feasts alike!

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