Welcome to the world of comfort food with a seasonal twist! Our Harvest Spice Squash Casserole is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, featuring the aromatic warmth of fall spices. It's a cozy, satisfying dish that brings the flavors of autumn right to your table.
Butternut squash is the star of the show, providing a naturally sweet and nutty base. The chopped onions add a mild sweetness and depth of flavor, while the garlic brings a savory punch. Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables, enhancing their flavors. The spices — cinnamon and nutmeg — add warmth and a hint of sweetness, perfectly complementing the squash. Salt and black pepper balance the flavors with a touch of seasoning. Cheddar cheese introduces a creamy, tangy element, and the breadcrumbs create a crispy layer on top. Pecans add a nutty crunch, and the melted butter helps to brown the topping beautifully.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier spread, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. A glass of crisp white wine or a spiced apple cider complements the flavors wonderfully.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Begin with the butternut squash — peel it, and then cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. It’s a bit of work, but totally worth it for that soft, sweet finish.
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium warmth. Drizzle in the olive oil, then toss in the chopped onions. Let them sauté until they become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
Now, it’s time to add the cubed squash to the skillet. Sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting it cook until the squash is just starting to become tender — this usually takes about 10 minutes.
Transfer the squash mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top. Make sure it’s covered nicely for that gooey, cheesy layer.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the chopped pecans and melted butter. Mix until everything is coated well. Evenly spread this mixture over the cheese layer in your baking dish.
Pop the whole thing into your preheated oven. Let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese underneath is bubbly and irresistible. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in.
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