Are you craving that warm, comforting taste of Boston Market's famous squash casserole? Forget takeout! This copycat recipe lets you recreate this delicious side dish right in your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade version, guaranteed to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or similar buttery crackers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter, for topping
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. You can easily check for doneness with a fork. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the squash is roasting, melt the 1/2 cup of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Season and Combine
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Once the roasted squash is cool enough to handle, add it to the creamy sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. The cheese adds a wonderful sharpness that complements the sweetness of the squash.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the squash mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top. Drizzle with the melted butter. This creates a delightful, buttery crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. The casserole should be heated through and the flavors beautifully melded.
Tips for the Best Squash Casserole:
- Don't overcook the squash: Overcooked squash can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart consistency.
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of the cheese significantly impacts the overall taste.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Variations:
- Add other cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Add herbs: Fresh sage or thyme would be a delicious addition.
- Use different crackers: Experiment with different types of crackers for varied textures and flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator online, inputting the exact ingredients and serving sizes. However, expect this dish to be relatively high in calories and fat due to the cheese and butter content.
This easy squash casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect example of delicious, healthy food that's easy to make, even for busy weeknights. Enjoy!