Delicious Baked Butternut Squash Casserole with Pecan and Marshmallow Topping
Dive into the cozy, comforting embrace of our Baked Butternut Squash Casserole, perfect for any family gathering or holiday feast. This dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a crunchy pecan streusel and a golden marshmallow topping, baked to perfection. It's a delightful twist on traditional sweet potato casserole that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
FAQ – Baked Butternut Squash Casserole
How do you keep squash casserole from getting watery?
Drain Thoroughly: After cooking the squash, drain it well to remove excess moisture.
Roast Instead of Boil: Roasting the squash instead of boiling can help reduce moisture content.
Use a Thickener: Add a small amount of flour or cornstarch to the squash mixture to absorb excess liquid.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can release more moisture from the squash. Mix gently to combine ingredients.
How does Gordon Ramsay cook butternut squash?
While we can't speak for Gordon Ramsay, respectfully, nobody can. But here's what I would do:
Roast butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness.
Here's a simple method he might use:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Squash: Peel and cut the butternut squash into cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Roast: Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Do you have to peel butternut squash before baking?
Yes, it is generally recommended to peel butternut squash before baking, especially if you are cubing it for recipes like casseroles or roasted dishes. The skin can be tough and fibrous. However, if you are roasting squash halves or slices, you can leave the skin on and scoop out the flesh after baking.
Can you make squash casserole ahead of time?
Yes, squash casserole can be made ahead of time. Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
What are some variations of squash casserole?
You can vary squash casserole by changing the type of squash, nuts, or additional ingredients:
Squash: Use acorn squash, pumpkin, or a mix of different winter squashes.
Nuts: Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts.
Add-ins: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor.
How do you store leftover squash casserole?
Store leftover squash casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave.