Butternut Squash and Chickpea Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

Before we get to the fun part—cooking—let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups of fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)

Pantry Staples

• 1 can of chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (optional, for a heartier casserole)

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp turmeric
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Toppings

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or vegan alternatives)
• A handful of breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

Got everything? Great! Let’s move on to prepping and assembling this delicious casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Create the Perfect Casserole

Making this casserole is simple and straightforward. Let’s break it down so you can tackle each step with ease.

Prepping the Ingredients

• Start by peeling and dicing the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. This ensures it cooks evenly.
• Chop the onion and garlic. The aroma when these hit the pan will set the tone for the dish.
• Rinse and drain your chickpeas thoroughly.

Tip: Don’t skip rinsing the chickpeas—it helps remove excess sodium and improves their texture.

Sautéing for Maximum Flavor

• Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the onions and garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the spices—cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Let them toast for a minute to release their aromas.

Building the Casserole

1. Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet and toss to coat it with the spices.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
3. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until the squash begins to soften.

Layering in the Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked quinoa or rice (if using) at the bottom.
• Pour the butternut squash and chickpea mixture over the base.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a golden, crispy finish.

Baking to Perfection

• Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, the flavors intensify as it rests.