Name: Harvest Squash Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 acorn squash, halved and seeded; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 apples, peeled, cored and chopped; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Why You’ll Love Harvest Squash Casserole Recipe

This recipe celebrates the flavors of fall with hearty squash and fresh herbs. Its vibrant colors and rich textures make it as beautiful as it is delicious, and it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients

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

1 spaghetti squash, cooked
3 large zucchini, finely shredded, about 4 cups
3 large carrots, finely shredded, about 3 cups
8 cloves garlic, minced
1 bunch fresh thyme, chopped
1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh Parmesan or pecorino Romano cheese, grated
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
Kosher salt, to taste
White pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook the Spaghetti Squash:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the whole squash in a baking dish and cover with foil, or slice and bake on a sheet. Roast for about 1 hour or until tender and easily pierced with a knife. Let cool, split open, and remove the seeds.
Alternatively, microwave halved squash with a bit of water for 10–15 minutes until strands can be pulled apart with a fork.

Prepare the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Add shredded zucchini and carrots and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in fresh thyme, parsley, salt, and white pepper. Sauté for an additional minute to blend the flavors.

Combine and Serve:
In a large bowl or casserole dish, toss the cooked spaghetti squash with the sautéed vegetables and grated cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, or cover and reheat before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 12 side-dish portions
Prep time: ~35 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes for sautéing, plus squash cooking time

Variations

Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or turkey to make it a main dish.
Make it cheesy: Top with extra cheese and broil briefly for a golden crust.
Add spice: Include red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a kick.
Switch herbs: Use rosemary or sage for a different fall flavor profile.
Try other squash: Use acorn or butternut squash in place of spaghetti squash for a change in texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, cover and warm in a 300–325°F (150–165°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

How do I cook the spaghetti squash for this recipe?

You can bake it whole or cut in slices in the oven, or microwave it halved with water until tender and the strands separate easily.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, leeks, or spinach would be great additions.

What cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino Romano offer the best flavor.

Can this be a main dish?

Yes, adding a protein source like sausage or chicken turns it into a satisfying entrée.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, it can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What herbs complement this dish?

Thyme and parsley work well, but sage and rosemary are also excellent choices.

How do I prevent the squash from being watery?

Drain the spaghetti squash thoroughly before combining it with other ingredients to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

Harvest Squash Casserole is a vibrant, hearty side that fits beautifully into any fall or holiday menu. With its simple preparation, seasonal ingredients, and flexible variations, it’s a comforting dish you’ll turn to again and again.