Savory Butternut Squash Casserole
Delight your family and friends with this delicious Savory Butternut Squash Casserole. This comforting dish combines the creamy richness of mashed butternut squash with the sweetness of sugar and the warmth of spices. Topped with a crispy crust of Rice Krispies and pecans, it's the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether served at a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Experience the wonderful flavors of fall in every bite!
7
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter or Margarine
1/3 cup (softened)
Sugar
3/4 cup
Eggs
2 (beaten)
Evaporated Milk
5 ounces (from a can)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon
Butternut Squash
2 cups (mashed, cooked)
Rice Krispies
1/2 cup
Chopped Pecans
1/4 cup (toasted (optional))
Butter or Margarine
2 tablespoons (melted)
Brown Sugar
1/4 cup (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Carefully bake the butternut squash until tender, about 45 minutes. A fork should easily pierce through the flesh.
3
Once cooked, cut the squash, scoop out the flesh, and discard the seeds.
4
Mash the squash until smooth, measuring out 2 cups for the recipe.
5
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
6
Beat in the eggs, then gradually add the evaporated milk and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
7
Stir in the mashed butternut squash, ensuring a well-combined mixture.
8
Pour the squash mixture into an 11 x 7 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
9
Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes, until it is set and lightly golden.
10
While the casserole is baking, prepare the topping by combining the Rice Krispies, chopped pecans, melted butter, and optional brown sugar in a small bowl.
11
After the initial baking time, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the topping evenly over the top.
12
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping is crispy and golden brown.
13
Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your Savory Butternut Squash Casserole!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Butternut Squash Casserole?
It is a comforting side dish that combines creamy mashed butternut squash with sugar and spices, finished with a crispy Rice Krispies and pecan topping.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 7 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How do I prepare the butternut squash for this recipe?
Bake the squash until tender, then scoop out the flesh, discard the seeds, and mash it until smooth.
How long does it take to bake the butternut squash initially?
The squash takes about 45 minutes to become tender in the oven.
How much mashed butternut squash do I need?
You will need exactly 2 cups of mashed, cooked butternut squash for this recipe.
What is the first step in mixing the casserole base?
Start by creaming together 1/3 cup of softened butter or margarine with 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
What kind of milk is used in this casserole?
The recipe calls for 5 ounces of evaporated milk from a can.
What size baking pan is required?
An 11 x 7 inch baking pan is recommended for this dish.
How long does the casserole bake before adding the topping?
The casserole should bake uncovered for 45 minutes until it is set and lightly golden.
What ingredients make up the topping?
The topping is a combination of Rice Krispies, chopped pecans, melted butter, and optional brown sugar.
When should the topping be added to the casserole?
The topping should be sprinkled evenly over the top after the initial 45-minute baking period.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either butter or margarine in both the base and the topping.
Are the pecans in the topping mandatory?
No, the chopped pecans are optional and can be omitted if preferred.
Is brown sugar required for the topping?
No, the 1/4 cup of brown sugar in the topping is an optional addition.
How do I know when the butternut squash is finished baking?
The squash is done when a fork can easily pierce through the flesh.
Should the pecans be toasted?
Toasting the pecans is optional but recommended to enhance the flavor.
What is the total baking time for the casserole?
The total baking time is 50 minutes: 45 minutes for the base and an additional 5 minutes with the topping.
Is this dish suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is tagged as a Thanksgiving side and is a perfect addition to a holiday feast.
Can I substitute the Rice Krispies in the topping?
While Rice Krispies provide the intended crunch, any similar crispy rice cereal can be used.
Do I need to peel the squash before baking?
No, you bake the squash first and then scoop the flesh out of the skin once it is cooked.
Can I use pumpkin instead of butternut squash?
This specific recipe is formulated for butternut squash, which has a distinct flavor and texture profile.
How much butter is used in the topping?
The topping requires 2 tablespoons of melted butter or margarine.
How much butter is needed for the squash mixture?
You will need 1/3 cup of softened butter or margarine for the main mixture.
What provides the crispy texture for the casserole?
The combination of Rice Krispies and pecans creates the signature crispy crust.
Should the casserole cool before being served?
Yes, allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set and improves the flavor.
Can I use an 8x8 inch pan instead of an 11x7 inch pan?
You can use a similar size pan, but be aware that the thickness and baking time may vary.
How many eggs are used in this recipe?
The recipe requires 2 beaten eggs.
What category of dish is this?
This is a vegetable dish categorized as a side dish and comfort food.
When should I measure the 2 cups of butternut squash?
You should measure the squash after it has been cooked and mashed to ensure the correct volume.