Baked Cheesy Butternut Squash

Baked Cheesy Butternut Squash is the ultimate cozy side dish that brings together the natural sweetness of roasted squash and the savory richness of melted cheese. Topped with golden, garlicky panko breadcrumbs for added crunch, this dish is warm, comforting, and loaded with flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want an easy, crowd-pleasing vegetable dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect texture: Butternut squash becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the top gets deliciously crispy.

• Cheesy and comforting: A blend of white cheddar and Parmesan makes this dish rich and flavorful.

• Easy prep: Simple ingredients and a straightforward baking process make it weeknight-friendly.

• Versatile side: Pairs well with everything.

• Family-approved: A delicious way to serve more veggies that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 2-inch cubes
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
¼ cup panko crumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.

2. In a small frying pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until soft and fragrant. Remove from heat.

3. Place the panko crumbs in a small bowl. Drizzle the garlic-butter mixture over the crumbs and toss to combine. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil. Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, then season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

5. Transfer the squash mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the garlic panko crumbs over the top.

6. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and the topping is golden and crispy.

7. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the squash for extra aroma.

• Use different cheeses: Try gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, though the topping may lose its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, but make sure it’s thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Do I need to peel the squash?

Yes, peeling is essential as the skin can be tough and unpleasant in this dish.

What can I use instead of panko?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work as substitutes, though the texture may vary.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything up to the baking step and refrigerate. Add breadcrumbs just before baking to keep them crisp.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, substitute dairy-free butter and cheeses. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try adding chopped onions, spinach, or mushrooms for variety.

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Freshly shredded Parmesan is best for melting and flavor. Avoid pre-grated varieties with fillers.

Will this work with other squash?

Yes, acorn squash or delicata can be used, though textures and sweetness may vary slightly.

Is this good for the holidays?

Definitely. It’s a festive, flavorful side dish that pairs well with turkey, or roast beef.

Can I make this dish lower in fat?

Use less cheese or a lighter cheese blend, and replace some of the butter with a lower-fat alternative if desired.

Conclusion

Baked Cheesy Butternut Squash is the perfect balance of indulgent and wholesome. With tender roasted squash, gooey melted cheese, and a buttery crunch on top, this side dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Whether you’re planning a holiday meal or just need a new way to serve up veggies, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.