Fall Casserole Recipe for Dinner
For a delicious fall casserole, combine 1 lb ground pork, 2 cups cubed butternut squash, and 2 cups cubed red potatoes. Start by sautéing onion in olive oil until translucent, then brown the pork with your favorite seasonings. Mix in the squash and potatoes with a little liquid. Cook everything under high pressure in an Instant Pot for 10 minutes. Finally, stir in 2 cups of spinach and 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese before broiling. This meal is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, and you can enhance it with herbs or leftover ingredients for extra flavor and creativity.
Key Takeaways
- This fall casserole features ground pork, butternut squash, and red potatoes for a hearty and nutritious meal.
- Incorporate fresh or frozen spinach and Parmesan cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use an Instant Pot to cook quickly under high pressure for just 10 minutes.
- Enhance the dish with seasonal herbs like thyme or rosemary for robust flavor.
- Ideal for family gatherings, this versatile casserole is perfect for cozy autumn dinners.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
When you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, this fall casserole recipe is a perfect choice.
You’ll appreciate how simple it’s to make, as it requires quick assembly and uses common, seasonal ingredients. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, which is great for busy days. This casserole can include vegetables like butternut squash, making it a nutritious option.
The flexibility of this recipe is another bonus. You can adjust it to fit different tastes and dietary needs, using vegetables like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts.
This casserole offers balanced nutrition with protein, vegetables, and whole grains, ensuring a satisfying meal.
With minimal cleanup thanks to one-pan cooking, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!
Recipe
Fall Casserole Recipe
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to celebrate the season. This fall casserole combines the earthy flavors of ground pork, butternut squash, and red potatoes, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. The addition of spinach and Parmesan cheese not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a delightful savory flavor that elevates the dish. Using the Instant Pot, this recipe makes it easy to prepare a delicious casserole in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven. You’ll enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other tasks. This dish is particularly appealing for fall because it features seasonal ingredients that highlight the best of the harvest season.
Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, this fall casserole is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 2 cups red potatoes, cubed
- 2 cups fresh or frozen spinach
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Once the pork is browned, stir in the garlic powder, kosher salt, and poultry seasoning, mixing well to combine.
- Add the cubed butternut squash and red potatoes to the pot, followed by 1 cup of water or broth to create steam.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure manually.
- Once the pressure is released, open the lid and stir in the spinach until wilted.
- Then, mix in half of the shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, top with the remaining Parmesan cheese, and place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For a more robust flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the ground pork mixture.
Additionally, using pre-cut butternut squash and red potatoes can save time on preparation.
If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can mix in a can of cream of mushroom soup or a splash of cream before baking.
Lastly, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving will enhance both the presentation and flavor of your dish.
Enjoy your comforting fall casserole!
Final Thoughts
As you embrace the flavors of fall, casseroles offer a delightful way to bring comfort and warmth to your table. They provide a variety of options, from classic green bean to creative pumpkin lasagna. Their ease of preparation makes them ideal for busy weeknights, as many recipes can be made ahead and stored. Casseroles are perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or casual gatherings, catering to diverse dietary needs. You can serve them as main dishes or sides, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. With nutritious ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins, these dishes balance comfort and health. Additionally, casseroles for entertaining allow you to effortlessly serve a crowd, making them a go-to choice for holiday meals. Try customizing your casseroles with leftover ingredients, reducing waste while enjoying delicious meals. Embrace the versatility and warmth of fall casseroles this season!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it, refrigerate overnight, or freeze it for later. Just remember to cool it completely before storing and follow proper reheating guidelines when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve?
When you’re planning meals, consider roasted honey sweet potatoes or a classic green bean casserole. Honey-thyme butternut squash and baked corn also complement main dishes beautifully, adding seasonal flavors to your table.
How Do I Store Leftovers Properly?
To store leftovers properly, cool them to room temperature within two hours, then refrigerate in airtight containers. Label with dates, and consume within 3 to 5 days to maintain freshness and safety.
Can I Freeze This Casserole for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole for later use. Just ensure it’s cooled completely, wrapped tightly, and labeled. Remember to consume it within three months for the best quality and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
What Substitutions Can I Make for Dietary Restrictions?
You can make various substitutions for dietary restrictions. For vegan diets, use plant-based alternatives. For gluten-free, choose appropriate flours and pastas. For low-carb, opt for veggies like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Always read labels.
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