Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering dish that combines the rustic charm of cornbread with the sweet, velvety goodness of butternut squash! This Cornbread Crusted Squash Casserole is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine a golden, crispy cornbread topping melting into a creamy, cheese-laden squash base that's both comforting and sophisticated – it's like a warm hug for your taste buds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling and cutting it into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, milk, melted butter, eggs, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-incorporated batter.
- Spread the cubed butternut squash evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the squash to create a rich, flavorful base layer.
- Pour the cornmeal batter slowly and evenly over the squash and cheese, ensuring complete coverage. Use a spatula to distribute the batter uniformly.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. The top should turn golden brown and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes cutting and serving easier.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Squash Selection: Choose a fresh, firm butternut squash with a deep orange color for the best flavor and texture.
- Even Cutting: Take your time when cubing the squash. Uniform 1-inch pieces ensure consistent cooking and a perfect texture throughout.
- Cheese Matters: Use a high-quality shredded cheese like sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for maximum flavor depth.
- Batter Consistency: Whisk the cornmeal batter thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Prevent Burning: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while ensuring the casserole cooks through.
- Resting is Key: Always let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving much easier.
- Serving Suggestion: Elevate the dish with fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.Pro Tip: This casserole is incredibly versatile – serve it as a side dish, a vegetarian main course, or even as a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 110mg
