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Looking for a hearty, nutritious dish that still brings a taste of Italy to your table? Look no further than this Healthy Italian Butternut Sweet Potato Casserole! Bursting with the natural sweetness of butternut squash and sweet potatoes, this casserole is layered with Italian herbs, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Serving Size
- Serves: 6
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 45 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that delightful golden crust on top.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the diced butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked butternut squash and sweet potatoes with chopped onion, minced garlic, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. The ricotta adds a creamy texture, while the Italian seasoning infuses the dish with fantastic flavor.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Finally, add the whole wheat breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
5. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Garnish and Serve
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving. This Healthy Italian Butternut Sweet Potato Casserole is perfect on its own or served alongside a simple green salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is not just easy to make; it’s packed with nutrients and flavor. The combination of butternut squash and sweet potatoes creates a naturally sweet and creamy base, while the cheeses add richness and depth. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in!
Pro Tip: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, like cooked ground turkey or spinach!
Ready to whip up a delicious and healthy meal? This Healthy Italian Butternut Sweet Potato Casserole is here to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling great! Perfect for family dinners or as a meal prep option, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and this casserole makes it easy! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a dish that not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on your table. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s make some magic happen with this delightful casserole!
