Savory Butternut Squash and Kale Casserole with Parmesan

As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a hearty casserole to bring warmth to your table. This butternut squash casserole is a delicious, savory dish that combines the rich, earthy flavors of roasted butternut squash with fresh herbs, chickpeas and kale for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re a fan of casseroles or just looking for new ways to use butternut squash, this recipe has you covered.

Wondering can you put butternut squash in a casserole? Absolutely! In fact, it’s the star ingredient that gives this dish its rich, velvety texture and natural sweetness.

Perfect for a family dinner or a holiday side, this recipe for butternut squash casserole is both hearty and healthy. With just 257 calories per serving, it’s packed with nutrients from vegetables, plant-based protein from chickpeas, and a burst of flavor from fresh sage, thyme and parmesan cheese. Plus, this casserole can be easily customized to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Butternut Squash Casserole

One of the best things about this savory butternut squash casserole is how simple yet satisfying it is. The roasted butternut squash gives it a rich, slightly sweet flavor, while the garlic, sage and thyme add depth and warmth. The chickpeas boost the protein content, making it a filling vegetarian option, while kale brings in a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins.

This casserole is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make dish that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of butternut squash or new to using it in recipes, this butternut squash in casserole dish is a great way to explore the versatility of this fall vegetable.

If you’re on a Nutrisystem plan, you can count each serving of this meal as one SmartCarb, one PowerFuel and two Extras.

How to Make Butternut Squash Casserole

If you’re wondering how to make butternut squash casserole, it’s incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, comforting dish ready to serve. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Roast the butternut squash: Toss cubed butternut squash in olive oil and roast it in the oven until soft. This step helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the squash and gives the casserole a rich, caramelized flavor.
2. Prepare the sauce: Half of the roasted squash is blended with half-and-half (or nondairy creamer), low-sodium vegetable broth, garlic, fresh sage, thyme and black pepper. This creamy, herb-infused sauce binds the ingredients together and adds a velvety texture to the dish.
3. Assemble the casserole: The remaining roasted squash, chickpeas and finely chopped kale are combined in a casserole dish. The sauce is poured over, and everything is stirred together. A generous layer of shredded parmesan is added on top.
4. Bake and broil: After baking the casserole, broiling it for a couple of minutes gives the parmesan a golden-brown, slightly crispy texture.

Let it cool slightly before serving, and you have a healthy butternut squash casserole that’s perfect for any meal!

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Casserole

This butternut squash and kale casserole is a well-rounded dish on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Salad: Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Whole Grains: Pair it with quinoa, farro or wild rice for an extra dose of fiber and protein.
• Protein: If you’re looking to add more protein, this casserole works well with roasted chicken or baked fish.

It’s also a fantastic side dish for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, where it complements turkey breast or ham.

Health Benefits

Butternut squash, kale and chickpeas are nutrition powerhouses that make this casserole as healthy as it is delicious.

• Butternut Squash: Rich in vitamins A and C, which supports immune health and vision. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
• Kale: One of the most nutrient-dense foods, kale is packed with vitamins K, A and C, along with antioxidants that help combat inflammation. It’s also high in fiber.
• Chickpeas: These beans not only provides plant-based protein but also boosts the fiber content, making this casserole a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy, balanced diet.

Customization Ideas

This butternut squash casserole recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add a crunch: Top the casserole with whole grain breadcrumbs or crushed nuts (like walnuts or pecans) before baking for added texture.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a plant-based creamer and dairy-free parmesan for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Swap the greens: If you’re not a fan of kale, feel free to substitute it with spinach, Swiss chard or even broccoli.

A Cozy and Comforting Casserole

This butternut squash casserole is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of fall in a healthy and comforting way. With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, it’s an easy go-to dish for weeknights, family gatherings or holiday feasts.

Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table. Plus, with the rich nutrition profile of butternut squash and kale, you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones.