Tired of complicated recipes and endless prep time? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in a flash? Then look no further! This easy stove top squash casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish bursting with the goodness of butternut squash, perfectly seasoned and ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple, satisfying, and undeniably delicious. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 1.5 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Cook the squash: Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet. Stir in the sage, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender.
-
Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
-
Stir in cheese (optional): If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
-
Serve and garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stove Top Squash Casserole:
- Choosing your squash: For the best results, choose a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size – this indicates it’s ripe and flavorful.
- Prepping the squash: To save time, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash cubes from the grocery store. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked squash will become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm pieces.
- Seasoning is key: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Delicious Variations:
- Add some protein: Boost the protein content by stirring in some cooked chickpeas, lentils, or crumbled sausage during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier dish.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or even a blend of your favorites.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This easy stove top squash casserole is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish the whole family will enjoy. The recipe is adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs, making it a truly versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!