If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It blends the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a delightful mix of spices and a crunchy topping that adds texture and depth. Perfect for holiday dinners or a weeknight supper, this casserole is a beautiful way to celebrate seasonal flavors and nourish your soul all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating a luscious texture, balanced sweetness, and that irresistible topping crunch that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 2 cups cooked mashed butternut squash: The star of the show, providing creamy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 eggs: Bind the casserole together, giving it structure and richness.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that complements the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1/3 cup softened butter: Brings a silky texture and enhances the overall flavor depth.
- 1/3 cup whole milk: Keeps the mixture moist and smooth for a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger: Introduces a subtle warmth and spice that brightens the dish.
- 1/2 tsp coconut flavoring: Offers a unique, tropical hint that makes the casserole stand out.
- 3/4 cup crushed cornflakes: Provides a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
- 6 Tbsp packed brown sugar: Adds extra caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans: Bring crunch and a buttery nutty flavor to the topping layer.
- 2 Tbsp melted butter: Binds the topping ingredients and gives them a golden finish when baked.
How to Make Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF to get it nice and warm. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will come out beautifully baked and golden.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine your mashed butternut squash with eggs, sugar, softened butter, whole milk, ground ginger, and coconut flavoring. Stir gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This fragrant combination is the foundation of your casserole’s creamy, tender texture and layered flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes, packed brown sugar, chopped pecans, and melted butter. This topping will create a lovely crispy crust after baking, adding a satisfying contrast to the smooth squash filling.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole in Two Stages
Pour the squash mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 minutes to let the flavors meld and the base set. Then, remove from oven and sprinkle the cornflake topping evenly over the casserole. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to toast the topping to a golden, crispy finish. Your Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans or a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg on top just before serving for added aroma and texture. A dollop of lightly whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup can also enhance the flavors beautifully if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with savory mains like roasted chicken, glazed ham, or even a hearty lentil stew. The sweet and spiced profile of the casserole balances rich proteins, making your meal feel thoughtfully composed and utterly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at your next dinner party or holiday gathering. You could also layer it with a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese and bake for a twist that adds a gooey, savory note to this naturally sweet casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so it’s a perfect make-ahead dish that tastes even better after resting.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking or after it’s completely cooled post-baking. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325ºF until warmed through, or microwave smaller portions on medium power. To revive the topping’s crunch, you might want to broil it for a minute or two at the end, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
FAQs
Can I use canned butternut squash for this recipe?
While fresh butternut squash offers the best texture and flavor, canned mashed squash can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery casserole.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the milk and butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. This keeps the casserole rich and moist while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To veganize this recipe, swap out the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes, and confirm your sugar and toppings align with vegan standards. It may change the texture slightly but will still be delicious.
How spicy is the ginger in the casserole?
The ground ginger adds just a subtle warmth and brightness—it’s not overpowering. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely, though it really enhances the overall flavor profile.
What can I do with leftover topping mixture?
If you have extra topping, sprinkle it over oatmeal, yogurt, or even fruit crisp to add a buttery sweet crunch. It’s a great way to avoid waste and add extra flavor to other dishes.
Final Thoughts
This Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe is a heartfelt dish that brings together sweet and savory in a way that makes you want to reach for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy butternut squash beyond the usual. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
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Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mashed Butternut Squash Casserole is a comforting and sweet side dish perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals. Creamy mashed butternut squash is combined with eggs, sugar, butter, and warm spices, then topped with a crunchy, buttery cornflake and pecan crust for a delicious contrast in textures.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 2 cups cooked mashed butternut squash
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, softened
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp coconut flavoring
Topping
- 3/4 cup crushed cornflakes
- 6 Tbsp packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked mashed butternut squash, eggs, sugar, softened butter, whole milk, ground ginger, and coconut flavoring. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended and smooth. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed cornflakes, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and melted butter until the dry ingredients are well coated and clusters form. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Bake Casserole: Place the filled baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 minutes. This initial baking firms up the custard-like base.
- Add Topping and Continue Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and evenly sprinkle the cornflake topping over the surface. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving warm. This dish makes a perfect sweet side or dessert during cooler months.
Notes
- You can substitute brown sugar in the topping with white sugar if preferred, but brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
- If you want a nut-free version, omit the pecans or replace with toasted sunflower seeds.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
- Make sure to cook and mash the butternut squash well ahead of time for ease of preparation.
- The coconut flavoring adds a subtle tropical note; if unavailable, vanilla extract can be used as an alternative.
