Crunchy Butternut Squash ‘n Apple Bake
Butternut squash pairs perfectly with apples in this naturally-sweetened casserole that’s laced with the heady scents of cinnamon and ginger. Finished with just the right touch of nutty crunch. So simple, so delicious… so “Thanksgiving.”
Ingredients
- Olive oil spray
- 2 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes (see MPM Mini-Bites)
- 2 tablespoons low fat coconut milk
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup depending on desired sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon more if you like
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large baking apples peeled, cored and sliced (such as Braeburn, Fuji or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 2-quart casserole dish with olive oil spray.
- Steam squash for about 7 minutes or until tender when pricked with a fork. (Or boil if desired- just be careful not to overcook) Transfer squash to a large bowl
- Using a potato masher or large fork, mash squash with coconut milk, maple syrup and spices. Taste; if more sweetness is desired, continue mashing with up to another tablespoon of maple syrup.
- Place a layer of apples into casserole dish. Top with a layer of mashed squash. Continue layering with remaining apples and squash. (Layers do not need to be equal.)
- Bake covered for 40 minutes or until apples are soft. Uncover; sprinkle with pecans. Continue baking for 12 to 15 minutes. (Be careful not to allow pecans to burn.)
Notes
Make Ahead and Storage Tips: casserole may be assembled up to 8 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate. (not recommended to prepare any earlier as squash may become watery.) Leftover casserole may be reheated, covered, at 325 degrees F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Casserole may be frozen for up to 4 months.
For a great tutorial about cutting, peeling and preparing butternut squash, click here.
If you are short on time, stores such as Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market often have fresh peeled and cut butternut squash.
Another dish that will remind you of Thanksgiving is Pecan Sweet Potatoes.
