When the fall breeze starts to whisper through the trees and your kitchen calls for something comforting yet wholesome, this Apple Butternut Squash Casserole is exactly what you need. This dish wraps together the naturally sweet and earthy flavor of roasted butternut squash with soft cinnamon-spiced apples, all finished with a lightly crisp, nutty topping. It’s not just a side dish—it’s the moment everyone at the table is going to talk about.

Perfect for Thanksgiving tables, weekend dinners, or anytime you crave something hearty and warm, this casserole delivers both nutrition and nostalgia. It’s an irresistible blend of soft and crisp, sweet and savory, all baked into one cozy dish that brings the season to your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

This casserole is comfort food at its finest. You’ll love how it balances natural sweetness with warm spices, making it feel both indulgent and wholesome. It’s gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly, and can easily be made ahead for stress-free hosting. Plus, it’s just as tasty the next day—a bonus for leftovers lovers.

Roasting the squash and apples before baking brings out their best flavor, and the crunchy pecan topping adds a beautiful contrast. Whether you serve it alongside roast turkey or enjoy it solo as a cozy vegetarian main, it never fails to shine.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

When it comes to apples in this casserole, you want varieties that hold their shape well during baking and offer the right balance of tart and sweet. Granny Smiths are a favorite because their tartness complements the butternut squash beautifully and they don’t turn mushy in the oven. Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples also work well for a sweeter twist. Avoid Red Delicious or softer types, as they tend to lose structure.

Ingredients for the Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

This cozy casserole comes together with simple ingredients that create layers of fall flavor. Each one plays a role in delivering a perfectly balanced bite.

Butternut squash
Apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Maple syrup
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Salt
Butter
Rolled oats
Pecans
Brown sugar

The butternut squash brings natural sweetness and creaminess that forms the heart of the dish. Apples add a juicy contrast and a touch of tartness. Maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg infuse the casserole with cozy, spiced flavor. Salt balances out the sweetness, while butter, oats, pecans, and brown sugar create a crumble topping that bakes up beautifully golden and crisp.

Apple Butternut Squash Casserole with Cozy Flavor (1)

How To Make the Apple Butternut Squash Casserole

Step 1: Roast the Squash and Apples

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash and sliced apples in olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Spread them onto a baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

In a bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is coated evenly. This will be your crisp, buttery topping.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Lower the oven to 350°F. In a casserole dish, combine the roasted squash and apples with a drizzle of maple syrup and a pinch of nutmeg. Spread them out evenly. Then, sprinkle the oat-pecan topping across the top.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling gently around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Casserole

This Apple Butternut Squash Casserole serves about 6 to 8 people, making it a fantastic option for holiday tables or hearty weeknight meals. It pairs well with roasted meats or other vegetable dishes.

To store, let it cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It keeps well for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. If you want to prep ahead, you can roast the squash and apples the day before and assemble everything just before baking.

What to Serve With Apple Butternut Squash Casserole?

Herb-Roasted Turkey

The savory and juicy richness of a traditional roasted turkey complements the natural sweetness of the casserole.

Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with a splash of balsamic vinegar create a slightly tangy counterbalance.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A smooth and creamy side that adds extra comfort to your holiday plate.

Cranberry Sauce

Bright and zesty, cranberry sauce adds a pop of tartness that pairs beautifully with the roasted flavors.

Sausage and Sage Stuffing

This hearty, herb-packed side rounds out the meal with warm and savory notes.

Honey Glazed Carrots

These bring a touch of extra sweetness that fits right in with the casserole’s flavor profile.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Add an indulgent touch with this rich pasta dish that pairs well with squash and apples Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

This cozy pasta dish adds a savory, creamy contrast to the sweetness in the casserole Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Apple Butternut Squash Casserole warmed your heart, here are more cozy casseroles you might love next:

Best Chicken and Rice Casserole when you need a comforting classic.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for a rich, family-friendly twist.
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for seafood lovers seeking comfort food.
Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole for a dreamy breakfast-for-dinner idea.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole if you love a cheesy, golden-baked top.

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Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go with pecans or try walnuts instead? Maybe added a dash of clove or ginger? I love hearing the ways you make this recipe your own.

Explore more nourishing, cozy recipes like this on Mia Recipes on Pinterest, where I share seasonal comfort foods and family favorites: Mia Recipes on Pinterest