Welcome to a cozy, comforting dish that brings the warmth of autumn right to your table: Golden Harvest Butternut Squash Casserole. This recipe is all about embracing the natural sweetness of butternut squash, complemented by fragrant herbs and a crispy, cheesy topping. It's perfect for when you want something heartwarming yet simple to prepare.
Butternut squash is the star of this casserole, offering a nutty sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory elements. The onion adds a hint of sweetness and depth. Olive oil helps to roast the squash to perfection, while salt and black pepper bring out its natural flavors. The dried thyme and rosemary add earthy, aromatic notes. Parmesan cheese provides a savory, umami element, and bread crumbs create a satisfying, crispy topping. Finally, a touch of butter enhances the dish with richness and moisture.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a fantastic side for a holiday meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside a simple green salad for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly dinner. It also complements a hearty soup on a chilly evening.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it'll be nice and hot by the time you're ready to bake. While the oven is warming up, grab a large bowl. Toss in your peeled and cubed butternut squash along with the chopped onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle on the salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Give it all a good toss with your hands or a sturdy spoon until everything's well-coated.
Next, take a greased baking dish and spread the squash mixture evenly across the bottom. You want a nice, even layer so everything cooks uniformly. In a separate small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Sprinkle this cheesy, crunchy goodness evenly over the squash layer. Then, drizzle melted butter over the top to help everything crisp up beautifully.
Cover your dish with foil to keep the moisture in during the initial bake. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15 minutes. This final stretch without the foil lets the top get golden brown and slightly crispy. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in.