Description

This Cheesy Butternut Squash Casserole combines the sweet and savory flavors of roasted butternut squash and Honeycrisp apples with seasoned Italian sausage, sautéed fennel and onion, and a golden Gruyere cheese topping. Enhanced with maple syrup, herbes de Provence, and sage, this comforting casserole is perfect for a flavorful fall or winter meal. The roasted vegetables bring a tender, caramelized base, while the broiled cheese adds a rich, crispy finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Fruits

2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cut into medium cubes
2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and diced to match squash size
2 small fennel bulbs, halved, cored, and thinly sliced
1 onion, quartered and sliced into thin strips
Fresh sage leaves for garnish (fresh or fried)

Meat

1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed and broken into pieces

Oils and Fats

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided as needed
Olive oil, as needed for sautéing
1/4 cup oil, for frying sage leaves (optional)

Seasonings and Spices

Salt, generous amount, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried ground sage
1 1/2 teaspoons herbes de Provence

Other

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (divided: 1 tablespoon for roasting, 1 tablespoon for mixing)
1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded

Instructions

Roast the Butternut Squash and Apples: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat with cooking spray. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and diced Honeycrisp apples with 2 tablespoons olive oil, generous salt, black pepper, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, dried ground sage, and herbes de Provence. Spread the mixture in an even layer on the baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Brown the Sausage: While roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the sweet Italian sausage pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Fennel and Onion: In the same skillet, add additional olive oil if needed. Add sliced fennel and onion and cook over medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring periodically, until the vegetables are deeply golden and jammy. Remove from heat and combine with the cooked sausage.
Combine Ingredients and Prepare for Broiling: Change oven setting to broil. In a large bowl, mix the roasted squash and apples with the sausage, fennel, and onion mixture. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon maple syrup and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well and transfer the mixture to a 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
Prepare Crispy Sage Leaves (Optional): If using, heat 1/4 cup oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry fresh sage leaves for about 20 seconds until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt. Set aside for garnish.
Broil and Finish: Evenly sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese on top of the casserole. Place the baking dish under the broiler for several minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
Garnish and Serve: Top with fried or fresh sage leaves. Serve warm to enjoy the combined sweet, savory, and herbal flavors of this comforting casserole.

Notes

Use Honeycrisp apples or another sweet variety to balance the savory flavors.
Fennel adds a subtle anise flavor and sweetness; if unavailable, substitute with celery or leek.
Optional crispy sage leaves add a delightful texture and herbal aroma.
Monitor the casserole closely during broiling to prevent cheese from burning.
This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.
For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add extra sautéed vegetables or plant-based sausage alternatives.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 57 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Keywords: butternut squash casserole, cheesy casserole, fall recipes, roasted squash, Gruyere cheese, sweet Italian sausage, baked casserole