Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole with Crunchy Topping: A Heartwarming Fall Delight

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When the leaves start changing colors, and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the fall season than by enjoying a warm, comforting dish that brings the best of autumn flavors to your table. Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole with Crunchy Topping is just the kind of recipe that will fill your home with delicious aromas, making it the perfect dish for your next family dinner or holiday gathering. With its blend of savory butternut squash, sweet apples, and a crunchy, golden topping, this casserole is a delightful and nourishing way to celebrate fall.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy side dish or a standout centerpiece for your meal, this casserole offers a unique twist on traditional fall fare, and it’s easy to prepare. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to bring this heartwarming dish to life in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. This casserole brings together the rich, natural flavors of butternut squash and apples, complemented by a crunchy topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Large Butternut Squash	1 (about 3 lbs.)
Coconut Oil	2 tablespoons
Medium Apples (Honeycrisp, etc.)	6 (about 2 lbs.)
Salted Butter	6 tablespoons, divided
Light Brown Sugar	1 cup, divided
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Ground Cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon
Ground Nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon
Corn Flakes Cereal	2 cups
Chopped Pecans	1 cup
Oats	1/4 cup
Melted Butter	4 tablespoons

Pro Tip: Feel free to mix up the apple variety. Apples like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Pink Lady work perfectly for their firm texture and balance of sweetness and tartness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasting Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors. Let’s walk through the steps to make this comforting casserole.

Preparing the Butternut Squash

The first step in this recipe is roasting the butternut squash to perfection. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it the perfect base for your casserole.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to caramelize the squash and bring out its natural sugars.
2. Cut and Prepare the Squash: Carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds with a spoon, and rub the flesh with coconut oil. The coconut oil adds a subtle flavor and helps the squash to roast evenly.
3. Roast the Squash: Place the squash, cut-side down, on a foil-lined baking sheet. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. The time may vary slightly depending on the size of the squash, so keep an eye on it.
4. Cool and Scoop the Flesh: After the squash is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh out of the skin and transfer it to a food processor or blender. Set it aside for later use in your casserole.

Sautéing the Apples

While the squash is roasting, it’s time to prepare the apples. Sautéing the apples with a little butter and brown sugar softens them and infuses them with flavor.   Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

1. Melt Butter in a Skillet: Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely.
2. Cook the Apples: Add the sliced apples to the skillet, along with 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Stir occasionally as the apples cook, for about 10-15 minutes, until they soften but retain a little texture. The apples should not be mushy, so keep an eye on them and stir gently to prevent burning.
3. Transfer Apples to Casserole Dish: Once the apples are cooked, transfer them to a greased 3-quart casserole dish. Be sure to discard any excess juices that may have accumulated during the cooking process. These could make the casserole too watery.

Making the Squash Mixture

Now, it’s time to blend the roasted butternut squash into a creamy, flavorful mixture that will form the base of your casserole.

1. Combine Squash and Butter: Take the roasted squash flesh and add it to the food processor or blender. Add 3 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
2. Blend Until Smooth: Process everything together until the mixture is completely smooth. The result should be a creamy, spiced mixture that will perfectly complement the apples.
3. Spread the Squash Mixture: Once the squash mixture is ready, spread it evenly over the cooked apples in the casserole dish.

Preparing the Crunchy Topping

The topping is where the magic happens. The crispy cornflakes and crunchy pecans provide texture that perfectly balances the creamy squash and tender apples.

1. Combine Topping Ingredients: In a small bowl, crush the cornflakes into smaller pieces. Combine them with the chopped pecans, 1/4 cup of oats, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 4 tablespoons of melted butter.
2. Mix Well: Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the butter.
3. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the squash and apple mixture, ensuring every inch is covered with the crunchy goodness.

Baking the Casserole

Now comes the final step – baking your casserole to perfection!

1. Lower the Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. If the pecans begin to burn, loosely cover the casserole with foil.
3. Let it Cool: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together, and makes it easier to serve.

Pro Tip: This casserole is delicious both warm and cold, so feel free to enjoy it immediately or save it for later. It also makes a fantastic leftover dish!

Nutritional Information and Servings

This Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 220 calories per serving (this can vary based on serving size).
• Vitamins and Minerals: The butternut squash is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Apples provide fiber and vitamin C, while the pecans offer healthy fats and protein.
• Serving Size: This recipe makes 8 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Butternut Squash: High in fiber and low in calories, this vibrant vegetable is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that promote healthy skin, eyesight, and digestion.
• Apples: Packed with soluble fiber, apples are great for digestive health and keeping your heart strong.
• Pecans: A heart-healthy nut, pecans provide essential fatty acids and protein, making them a nutritious addition to this casserole.

Why This Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole is a Fall Favorite

The combination of flavors and textures in this casserole makes it a standout dish, perfect for fall gatherings. Here’s why it’s a favorite among many:

• Warm and Comforting: The blend of roasted butternut squash, sweet apples, and a crunchy topping creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
• Seasonal Flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar evoke the classic tastes of fall, creating a dish that celebrates the season in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served as a side dish at a holiday dinner or as a light main course, this casserole is incredibly versatile. You can even enjoy it as a dessert!

FAQs About Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole can be assembled up to the point of baking. Simply cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed.

What other apples can I use for this recipe?

In addition to Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Braeburn, and Pink Lady, you can also use Fuji or Gala apples. Just ensure you choose firm apples that will hold up well during cooking.

Can I substitute coconut oil with another oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter instead of coconut oil. However, coconut oil adds a unique flavor that complements the squash beautifully.

Can I use a different topping instead of cornflakes?

Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute cornflakes with crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even granola for a different texture and flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

This Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole with Crunchy Topping is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. With its blend of tender roasted squash, sweet apples, and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will add warmth and comfort to any occasion.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and make this heartwarming casserole today! Don’t forget to share your results with us—let us know how it turned out, and if you added any personal twists to the recipe. Happy cooking!

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