Savory Buttercup Squash Bake
Delight in the creamy richness of this Savory Buttercup Squash Bake. This dish transforms the sweet and nutty flavors of buttercup squash into a cozy casserole, perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a comforting family dinner. Infused with warm spices and topped with fresh chives, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Easy to prepare and wonderfully aromatic, it’s an excellent way to showcase winter squash!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
buttercup squash
2.5 lbs (cut into quarters, seeds removed)
brown sugar
2 tablespoons (packed)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (none)
butter or margarine
2 tablespoons (none)
fresh chives
1 tablespoon (chopped)
ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (if desired, for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Cut the buttercup squash into quarters and remove the seeds. Place the squash pieces, cut sides down, in an ungreased shallow baking dish.
3
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Allow the squash to cool slightly after baking.
4
Once cooled, scoop the pulp from the skin into a medium bowl, discarding the skin.
5
Add the brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and butter to the squash pulp. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or fork until it's well blended and creamy.
6
Transfer the mashed squash mixture into a greased 1-quart casserole dish.
7
Sprinkle the top with chopped fresh chives and an additional 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg if desired.
8
Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden on top.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Buttercup Squash Bake?
It is a creamy casserole dish that transforms the sweet and nutty flavors of buttercup squash into a cozy, spiced side dish topped with fresh chives.
What type of squash is best for this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for buttercup squash due to its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Can I substitute buttercup squash with another variety?
Yes, you can substitute with kabocha squash or butternut squash if buttercup squash is not available, as they have similar profiles.
How do I prepare the squash for roasting?
Cut the buttercup squash into quarters and remove the seeds before placing them cut-side down in a baking dish.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for both the roasting and the final bake.
How long does it take to roast the squash?
The squash needs to bake for 45 to 50 minutes until it is tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork.
Do I need to grease the dish for the initial roasting?
No, the instructions specify using an ungreased shallow baking dish for the initial roasting of the squash quarters.
How do I remove the squash pulp?
Once the squash has cooled slightly after roasting, use a spoon to scoop the pulp from the skin into a bowl and discard the skin.
What seasonings are added to the squash mash?
The mash is seasoned with brown sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and butter.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either butter or margarine to be used in the squash mixture.
What is the best way to mash the squash?
You can use a potato masher or a fork to blend the squash with spices until it is creamy and well-blended.
What size casserole dish is needed for the final bake?
You should use a greased 1-quart casserole dish for the final stage of baking.
What are the toppings for the Savory Buttercup Squash Bake?
The dish is topped with chopped fresh chives and an optional additional 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg.
How long is the final baking time for the casserole?
The assembled casserole bakes for 20 to 25 minutes until it is heated through and slightly golden.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a perfect side dish for holidays, gatherings, and Thanksgiving.
Is Savory Buttercup Squash Bake healthy?
Yes, buttercup squash is nutritious, and this preparation uses wholesome ingredients to highlight its natural benefits.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast and mash the squash in advance, then store it in the fridge and perform the final bake before serving.
Can I use dried chives instead of fresh?
While fresh chives provide the best flavor and color, you can use dried chives if necessary, though you may want to use a smaller amount.
What does buttercup squash taste like?
Buttercup squash has a sweet, mild flavor with a nutty undertone and a very creamy, dense texture when cooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredient list provided (squash, butter, sugar, spices, chives), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine, the recipe can easily be made vegan.
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
The casserole is done when it is heated thoroughly and the top begins to look slightly golden.
Should I peel the squash before roasting?
No, it is easier to roast the squash in its skin and scoop the flesh out afterward.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
While not in the original recipe, adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping would add a nice texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this squash bake be frozen?
Yes, the mashed squash mixture freezes well. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating or performing the final bake.
Is the brown sugar mandatory?
The brown sugar enhances the squash's natural sweetness, but you can reduce the amount or use a sugar substitute if preferred.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a knife, a baking dish for roasting, a mixing bowl, a potato masher, and a 1-quart casserole dish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger 2-quart casserole dish to serve 8 people.