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Fall Butternut Squash and Sage Casserole

This casserole layers roasted butternut squash with a savory sage-infused filling and melted cheese, baked until golden and bubbling. It features a combination of tender, caramelized squash and a creamy, flavorful topping with a crispy edge, offering a warm, hearty presentation perfect for autumn evenings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound butternut squash peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage chopped
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cooked rice optional for filling
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese for creaminess

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Silicone spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized around the edges, filling your kitchen with a sweet, nutty aroma.
  2. While the squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped sage, cooking for another minute until the mixture smells inviting and herbs are slightly crispy.
  3. Add the roasted squash to the skillet, breaking it apart slightly with your spatula. Stir in the cooked rice, ricotta, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix everything well until combined and heated through, creating a creamy, flavorful filling with a hint of sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Transfer the filling into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top, creating a gooey, cheesy crust that will brown beautifully as it bakes.
  5. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and the cheese has melted and turned golden brown. The aroma of sage and cheesy goodness will fill the house, promising a comforting meal.
  6. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the filling set slightly and makes serving easier. Slice into portions, revealing a lush, creamy interior with crispy edges—ready to be enjoyed.

Notes

Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or swap in different herbs to customize the flavor.