Butternut Squash Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a classic, but there's a new Thanksgiving side in town starring yet another favorite fall vegetable: butternut squash casserole! Many other butternut squash casseroles go the sweet route with a candy-like pecan topping, but not this one. Instead, it has cheese, bacon, caramelized onion (that is sautéed in bacon fat), kale, and crunchy almonds sprinkled over top. Add this colorful, full-of-texture butternut squash recipe to your Thanksgiving dinner menu immediately!

Should you peel butternut squash before cooking?

Yes! The flesh of butternut squash is super creamy and soft (when cooked), but its skin is thick and tough. The good news? Pre-peeled and chopped butternut squash is super easy to find in the refrigerated produce section of most grocery stores. For this recipe, you'll need about six cups.

What's the best way to cut butternut squash?

Cutting and peeling butternut squash isn't difficult. It just takes a little know-how and a few kitchen tools. Grab a good, sharp chef's knife and cut off the ends of the squash. Next, use that same knife or a sturdy peeler to peel away the skin. Then, cut the squash in half, lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash in planks, then cube it, and you're done!

What flavors go well with butternut squash?

Because butternut squash is so mild, it’s a wonderful canvas for a wide variety of flavors. In this particular recipe, it's paired with aromatic thyme and sage, earthy parsnips, smoky bacon (and almonds!), kale, and nutty gruyère cheese.

What can you use instead of gruyère?

If you're not into the slight funk of gruyère, feel free to substitute monterey jack or Swiss cheese.

Can you add meat to butternut squash casserole?

Sure! Browned, crumbled Italian sausage or chicken sausage would be scrumptious in this dish. Fold it in in step 4.

Can butternut squash casserole be made ahead?

Yes, this recipe can be made through step 4 up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator covered. Pull the casserole out of the fridge 30 minutes before you plan to bake it and increase the final bake time by 15 to 20 minutes.

What do you serve with butternut squash casserole?

Think of butternut squash casserole as the ultimate holiday side. It fits right along side classics like green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, and cornbread dressing and goes splendidly with a traditional Thanksgiving turkey feast. But it's also a delicious, veggie-packed fall side you can enjoy any night of the week with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even roast.