Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that's also surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! This hamburger and butternut squash casserole is the perfect blend of savory ground beef, sweet butternut squash, and creamy goodness. It's an easy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for a family gathering. This recipe offers a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it a guilt-free indulgence you'll crave again and again. It's one of those best recipes that effortlessly balances flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a key component of the delicious dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics
While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base of your casserole.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, cooked ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a golden-brown crust.
Tips for the Best Hamburger and Butternut Squash Casserole:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it creamy: Use a combination of milk and cream for an even richer casserole.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian sausage. This creates a hearty and flavorful vegetarian alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onion and garlic for an extra spicy touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 20-25g Fat: Approximately 18-22g Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This hearty and healthy hamburger and butternut squash casserole is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying homemade cooking experience. Enjoy!