If autumn had a signature scent, it might just be this Butternut Squash Casserole bubbling away in your oven. With caramelized apples, hearty sausage, sweet roasted squash, and a blanket of melted Gruyere, this savory squash bake is the kind of holiday comfort food we wait all year to make.

It’s warm, slightly sweet, a little herby, and deeply satisfying—basically, everything you want on a fall table. Whether you’re looking to impress at Thanksgiving or just want a cozy weeknight dish, this casserole fits the bill beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Casserole

A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Features seasonal stars like squash, apples, and fennel.
A delicious apple sausage casserole that works as a main or a hearty side.
Makes a stunning addition to any fall or holiday spread.

Ingredients

2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp pure maple syrup, divided
½ tsp dried sage
1½ tsp Herbes de Provence
½ lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
2 small fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
Fresh or fried sage leaves, for garnish

How to Make This Savory Squash Bake

Roast the squash and apples. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and mist with cooking spray. Toss squash and apples with olive oil, salt, pepper, 1 tbsp maple syrup, dried sage, and Herbes de Provence. Spread in a single layer and roast for about 35 minutes, stirring once or twice, until tender and golden.
Brown the sausage. While the squash roasts, cook sausage in a hot skillet until browned and crumbly. Remove and set aside.
Caramelize the fennel and onion. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté fennel and onion over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, until soft and golden. Combine with the sausage.
Assemble the casserole. Turn oven to broil. In a large bowl, combine roasted squash and apples with the sausage mixture. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp maple syrup and season to taste. Toss well.
Bake and finish. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with Gruyere cheese and broil for 2–4 minutes, just until melted and golden.
Garnish and serve. For a pretty, aromatic topping, fry fresh sage leaves in a bit of oil for 20 seconds. Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and garnish the casserole before serving.

Tips for the Best Holiday Comfort Food

Pre-cut squash saves time if you’re in a rush.
Make it vegetarian by swapping sausage for white beans or mushrooms.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage for a spicy kick.
Use a mix of cheeses like Fontina or sharp white cheddar for a new flavor twist.

How This Recipe Became a Family Favorite

This dish started as a fridge-cleaning experiment and turned into a Thanksgiving staple. I had some leftover roasted squash, apples from apple-picking, and just enough sausage to not be weird. One quick broil and a cheese topping later, everyone at the table asked for seconds. Now, it’s one of those rare recipes that both kids and adults love—and I never mind making a double batch.

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Casserole

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork tenderloin. It’s also great with a simple kale salad or crusty bread for a satisfying vegetarian meal. Serve it alongside your favorite stuffing or green beans for a well-rounded fall feast.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. It also freezes well—just assemble without the cheese, freeze, then bake and broil with cheese when ready.

FAQs About Butternut Squash Casserole

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the veggies and cook the sausage and fennel mixture a day ahead. Assemble just before baking.

Is this gluten-free?

It is—just check that your sausage and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of squash?

Absolutely. Acorn squash or delicata would work well here too.

Do I have to use Gruyère?

Nope! Use what you love—cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan work great.

A Fall Side Dish Worth the Spotlight

This butternut squash casserole is more than just a supporting act—it’s a showstopper in its own right. Sweet, savory, and loaded with comfort, it’s a dish that brings people back for seconds (and thirds). So light that candle, pour yourself a cosy drink, and enjoy a taste of fall at its finest.

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