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Easy Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole Streusel Top

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A quick and easy butternut squash casserole with a creamy, cheesy base and a crunchy, buttery streusel topping. Perfect for weeknights or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–2.5 lbs / 900g-1.1kg), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (113g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided: 3/4 cup for mixture, 1/4 cup for topping)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, divided (2 tbsp for mixture, 2 tbsp for streusel)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • 1 cup (about 60g) buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz or Club), crushed
  • 1/2 cup (55g) pecans, chopped
  • 2 tbsp (25g) packed brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces. Place in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway, until fork-tender. Drain excess water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked squash, softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup shredded cheddar, sour cream, 2 tablespoons melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until well combined and creamy.
  4. Spread the squash mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  5. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Pour in remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter and stir until evenly moistened (like wet sand).
  6. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup shredded cheddar over the squash mixture, then evenly distribute the streusel topping on top. Do not press down.
  7. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until streusel is golden brown and edges are bubbly.
  8. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, shred cheese from a block. Toast pecans before adding to streusel for extra flavor. Let casserole rest before serving to set. Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash casserole, cheesy squash, streusel topping, easy casserole, holiday side dish, comfort food

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