Description
A comforting Sweet Butternut Squash Casserole featuring tender mashed butternut squash mixed with brown sugar and vanilla, topped with a buttery pecan streusel. This classic side dish is baked until golden and perfect for holiday meals or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Casserole
- 4 Tbsp butter, melted
- 2 pounds peeled and cubed butternut squash
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 2 eggs
Topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 Tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Butternut Squash: Place the peeled and cubed butternut squash into a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the squash is very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly. Mash the cooked squash until smooth.
- Prepare Casserole Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons melted butter, mashed butternut squash, milk, ¼ cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and eggs until fully combined. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Make Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ½ cup packed brown sugar, 4 tablespoons melted butter, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir until the mixture becomes moist and clumps together. Fold in the chopped pecans. Evenly spread this topping over the butternut squash mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare the squash a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator to save time on the day of baking.
- For a crunchy topping without pecans, omit them or substitute with walnuts or almonds.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Ensure the squash is well-mashed for a smooth texture in the casserole.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.
