Introduction
When the weather turns crisp and you're craving something warm and satisfying, this butternut squash and sausage casserole is the perfect answer. This cozy comfort food bake combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory beef sausage, creating a balanced and nourishing meal that the whole family will love.
This easy casserole recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. The butternut squash provides a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber, while quality beef sausage adds protein and rich flavor. Together, they create a fall dinner that's both comforting and nutrient-dense, without any of the guilt that comes with heavier, cream-laden casseroles.
Whether you're looking for a new addition to your autumn recipe rotation or simply want a one-dish meal that delivers on both taste and nutrition, this butternut squash casserole will quickly become a household favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This sausage casserole stands out for several reasons. First, it's incredibly versatile and forgiving, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced home chefs. The ingredients are simple and accessible, yet the final result tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a satisfying depth that keeps you coming back for more. The butternut squash becomes tender and caramelized in the oven, while the beef sausage adds a hearty, protein-rich element that makes this dish truly filling.
From a nutritional standpoint, this comfort food bake checks all the boxes. Butternut squash is loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It supports immune health, promotes healthy skin, and provides sustained energy without blood sugar spikes. The beef sausage contributes essential protein, iron, and B vitamins, making this a well-rounded meal.
Ingredient Notes
Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash with no soft spots. You'll need about 3-4 pounds, which yields approximately 6 cups of cubed squash. Pre-cut squash from the grocery store works great for saving time.
Beef Sausage: Look for high-quality beef sausage with minimal additives. Italian-seasoned beef sausage works wonderfully, but plain ground beef sausage allows you to control the seasoning yourself. Aim for grass-fed options when possible for better nutritional value.
Onions: Yellow or white onions add sweetness and depth. They become beautifully caramelized during roasting, adding another layer of flavor to the casserole.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic flavor that complements both the squash and sausage perfectly.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps the vegetables roast evenly and enhances nutrient absorption.
Fresh Herbs: Sage and thyme are classic fall herbs that pair beautifully with butternut squash. Fresh is best, but dried herbs work in a pinch (use one-third the amount).
Broth: Use beef or chicken broth for added moisture and flavor. Choose low-sodium options to control salt levels.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this fall dinner successfully, you'll need:
- Large rimmed baking sheet
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 6 cups)
- 1 pound beef sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Place the cubed squash on a large rimmed baking sheet.
Step 2: Season and Roast
Drizzle the squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Spread the squash in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized at the edges.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
While the squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic, sage, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, cooked sausage, and sautéed onion mixture. Add the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and the broth. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with foil and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is slightly crispy and everything is heated through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash and sausage casserole is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with several side dishes. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
If you're looking for additional comfort food pairings, consider serving it with crusty whole-grain bread for soaking up any delicious juices, or alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for extra vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing provides a peppery contrast that complements the sweet squash perfectly.
For a complete fall dinner spread, pair this easy casserole with roasted root vegetables or cauliflower mash. The casserole also works wonderfully as part of a holiday table, fitting right in with traditional autumn and winter celebrations.
Recipe Variations
Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese (if dairy is tolerated) for a Mediterranean twist on this comfort food bake.
Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes and add diced jalapeños to the onion mixture for extra heat.
Vegetable-Loaded: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for even more nutrients and fiber.
Different Proteins: Swap the beef sausage for ground turkey sausage or ground chicken for a leaner option.
Herb Variations: Try rosemary instead of sage, or add fresh oregano for an Italian-inspired flavor profile.
Sweet and Savory: Add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples for extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This butternut squash casserole stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole covered with foil in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth if the mixture seems dry after refrigeration.
For longer storage, this sausage casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Freeze in individual portions or as a whole casserole. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the butternut squash holds up remarkably well after freezing, making this an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeks.
Nutritional Benefits
This nutrient-dense casserole provides substantial health benefits beyond just being delicious. Butternut squash is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates that provide steady energy without causing blood sugar spikes. Its high fiber content supports digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness.
The vitamin A in butternut squash (in the form of beta-carotene) supports eye health, immune function, and skin health. Just one serving of this casserole provides well over 100% of your daily vitamin A needs. The vitamin C content further boosts immune function, especially important during cold and flu season.
Beef sausage contributes high-quality protein necessary for muscle maintenance and repair. It also provides iron, which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, and B vitamins that support energy metabolism and nervous system function.
The olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the herbs and aromatics provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Together, these ingredients create a balanced, wholesome meal that nourishes your body while satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Tips for Success
Uniform Cutting: Cut the butternut squash into evenly sized cubes to ensure consistent cooking. Pieces that are too large will remain undercooked while smaller pieces may become mushy.
Don't Skip the Pre-Roasting: Roasting the squash before assembling the casserole is crucial. This step caramelizes the natural sugars and removes excess moisture, preventing a watery final dish.
Quality Sausage Matters: Since the sausage is a star ingredient, choose high-quality beef sausage with good flavor and minimal fillers. Check the ingredient list and opt for products with recognizable ingredients.
Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Different sausage brands have varying salt levels, so your seasoning needs may vary.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This easy casserole is perfect for advance preparation. You can prep the components up to 2 days ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. Roast the butternut squash, cook the sausage and onion mixture, and store everything in airtight containers. When ready to serve, simply combine everything, add the broth, and bake as directed.
Alternatively, you can fully assemble the casserole (but don't bake it yet) and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time since you're starting with a cold dish.
Conclusion
This cozy butternut squash and sausage casserole embodies everything we love about fall dinner recipes. It's comforting without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and nutritious without sacrificing taste. The combination of sweet roasted squash and savory beef sausage creates a perfectly balanced dish that satisfies on every level.
Whether you're feeding a family on a busy weeknight, meal prepping for the week ahead, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a gathering, this comfort food bake delivers. The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Give this butternut squash casserole a try, and it just might become your new favorite way to enjoy the flavors of autumn all season long.
Butternut Squash and Sausage Casserole Recipe (Cozy)
A comforting bake with roasted butternut squash and beef sausage for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound beef sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Toss butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until tender.
- While squash roasts, heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook sliced sausage until browned, about 8 minutes.
- Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and sage, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine roasted butternut squash and sausage mixture in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Baking sheet
- Large skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage or turkey sausage for beef sausage.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before the final baking step.