Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole with Sausage

by

Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole with Sausage

A comforting casserole that balances savory sausage with sweet apples and spiced squash.

Introduction

This casserole is the perfect marriage of flavors: the earthiness of butternut squash, the sweetness of apples, and the richness of sausage, all tied together with warm spices. It’s a dish that feels festive yet simple, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

2 cups apples, peeled and sliced

1 pound sausage (Italian or your choice)

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup chicken broth

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

¼ cup brown sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  1. Cook Sausage

In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.

  1. Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.

  1. Add Squash and Apples

Stir in butternut squash and apples.

  1. Season and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth. Add thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

  1. Combine

Return sausage to skillet, mixing everything together.

  1. Assemble Casserole

Transfer mixture to a casserole dish. Sprinkle with brown sugar.

  1. Bake Covered

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

  1. Finish

Remove foil, add cheese if using, and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Prep & Bake Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Bake Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hr 5 mins

Tips for Success

Use tart apples (like Granny Smith) for balance against the sweetness of squash.

Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on top, adding depth.

For extra richness, swap chicken broth with apple cider.

If making ahead, assemble casserole and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with chickpeas or lentils.

Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add chili flakes.

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts before serving.

Cheese Lovers: Double the cheddar or add Gruyère for a sharper flavor.

Serving Ideas

Pair with crusty bread or cornbread.

Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a holiday spread.

Enjoy as a standalone main dish with a green salad.

Storytelling Element

Imagine pulling this casserole from the oven — the aroma of cinnamon and thyme mingling with savory sausage, the apples softened into sweetness, and the squash tender and golden. It’s a dish that feels like autumn comfort in every bite.

Conclusion

This Butternut Squash and Apple Casserole with Sausage is hearty, flavorful, and versatile. With its blend of sweet and savory, it’s a recipe that brings warmth to the table and will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Leave a Comment