Cozy Butternut Squash & Sausage Casserole

This cozy butternut squash and sausage casserole is one of my favorite comfort meals for chilly days. It’s hearty, savory, and slightly sweet with roasted butternut squash, flavorful sausage, and a golden, cheesy topping. The textures and flavors blend beautifully, making every bite warm, satisfying, and full of fall-inspired goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to make, full of rich flavor, and perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. The butternut squash turns tender and sweet in the oven, while the sausage adds a savory depth. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with a cozy aroma and makes everyone excited to dig in. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different greens, grains, or cheeses. Cozy Butternut Squash & Sausage Casserole

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
olive oil
salt and black pepper
Italian sausage
onion (chopped)
garlic (minced)
kale or spinach (chopped)
cooked rice, farro, or quinoa (optional, for added heartiness)
eggs
milk or cream
shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
fresh thyme or sage (optional, for extra flavor)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F and roasting the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 25–30 minutes, until tender and golden.
While the squash roasts, I cook the sausage in a skillet until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
I add chopped onions and garlic to the pan and sauté until softened.
Then I stir in the chopped greens and let them wilt down.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, a bit of salt and pepper, and half of the shredded cheese.
I combine the roasted squash, sausage mixture, and optional cooked grains, then pour the egg mixture over everything and toss gently to combine.
I transfer it all to a greased baking dish, sprinkle the remaining cheese and parmesan on top, and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, or until set and bubbling.
I let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings and takes around 1 hour from start to finish, including roasting and baking time.

Variations

Sometimes I use sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash or add mushrooms for extra earthiness. I’ve also used turkey sausage or made it vegetarian with white beans or lentils. For added creaminess, I stir in a spoonful of ricotta before baking, and if I want extra crunch, I top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven. I also freeze individual portions and reheat them from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before warming. Cozy Butternut Squash & Sausage Casserole

FAQs

Can I use pre-cut squash?

Yes, I often use store-bought pre-cut butternut squash to save time. I still roast it the same way for the best flavor.

What type of sausage works best?

I usually go with mild or spicy Italian sausage, but any ground sausage will work, including chicken or turkey varieties.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. I use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and it still turns out creamy and delicious.

Do I have to use eggs?

The eggs help bind everything together like a casserole. If I want to skip them, I reduce the liquid slightly and bake until firm.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. The next day, I bring it to room temp while the oven preheats and bake as usual.

Conclusion

Cozy butternut squash and sausage casserole is everything I love in a fall or winter meal—comforting, hearty, and full of flavor. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for a few days, it’s one of those recipes that always feels like home. The mix of roasted squash, savory sausage, and melty cheese is hard to beat, and I always look forward to having it on the table.

Cozy Butternut Squash & Sausage Casserole

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This cozy butternut squash and sausage casserole is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for fall and winter. It features roasted butternut squash, savory sausage, tender greens, and melty cheese all baked together in one delicious dish.

Ingredients

4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
1 cup cooked rice, farro, or quinoa (optional)
4 large eggs
1 cup milk or cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tsp fresh thyme or chopped sage (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and golden. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F.
Meanwhile, cook sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheese.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine roasted squash, sausage mixture, and cooked grains (if using). Pour the egg mixture over and gently toss to combine.
Top with remaining shredded cheese and parmesan (if using).
Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and bubbling. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.