Turkey Sausage & Butternut Squash Casserole

Blog by Callie Birtles, RHN in The Clear Skin Solution + Recipe by Katie Stewart

As the weather cools and the days get shorter, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty casserole fresh out of the oven. This Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Casserole brings together all the flavours of fall. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, going to a potluck, or just looking for a cozy, nourishing meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot.

A Perfect Balance of Flavours and Nutrients

What makes this Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Casserole so satisfying is its perfect balance of savoury and sweet flavours. The natural sweetness of apples and maple syrup pairs beautifully with the earthy sage and Herbes de Provence, while the turkey sausage adds a rich, savoury element. The apples and butternut squash, both high in fibre, also support digestion—a crucial aspect of skin health. A healthy gut is often reflected in healthy skin, and by nourishing your body with high-fibre, nutrient-dense ingredients, you’re supporting both your digestive system and your complexion.

Lean Turkey for Hormonal Bliss, Mood, & Sleep

Turkey is an excellent source of essential amino acids and lean protein, offering a nutritious option without the excess fat found in some other meats. Protein plays a key role in hormone balance, which is particularly important for those dealing with acne triggered by hormonal fluctuations. Furthermore, turkey is rich in zinc, a mineral that helps control inflammation and regulate oil production, making it an ideal choice for anyone prone to breakouts.

Another benefit of turkey is its high content of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin—the neurotransmitter responsible for boosting mood. As the days get shorter and darker, many people experience mood shifts, including symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Adding tryptophan-rich foods like turkey to your diet can help uplift your mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep, making it a comforting choice for fall and winter meals.

Butternut Benefits

Butternut squash isn’t just a fall favourite for its flavour—it’s packed with skin-boosting benefits that make it a perfect ingredient for clear skin. Here’s why:

Rich in vitamin A

Helps reduce inflammation, promotes healthy skin regeneration, and supports cell turnover, which can aid in healing breakouts and preventing clogged pores.

High in fibre

Supports digestive health, helping to eliminate toxins and maintain balanced gut bacteria, both of which can lead to clearer skin.

Rich in Vitamin C

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen production, helping to maintain skin elasticity and firmness. Additionally, its antioxidant properties protect the skin from free radical damage, reducing the signs of aging and promoting a brighter, clearer complexion.

This casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can keep it as is for a hearty, savoury dish or drizzle it with optional cashew cream for added creaminess. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, preparing it for a weeknight meal, or toting it to a potluck, this skin-loving casserole is sure to become a go-to fall staple!

Turkey Sausage & Butternut Squash Casserole

This Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Casserole is the perfect cozy fall meal, packed with nourishing flavours.

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Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (peeled and chopped into 1.5-2 inch cubes/ about 5 cups)
• 2 apples (peeled and chopped)
• 2 lbs turkey sausage (removed from casing)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 white onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 2 Tbsp fresh sage (chopped)
• 1 Tbsp herbes de provence
• 2 Tbsp maple syrup

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sage and Herbes de Provence.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey sausage, sautéed onions, garlic, cubed butternut squash, diced apple, sage, Herbes de Provence, and maple syrup. Toss everything together until evenly mixed.
• Transfer the mixture into a large 13x9-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Cover the casserole with parchment paper, then cover with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and parchment paper, and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender.
• Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Optional: Drizzle cashew cream over the casserole before serving for added creaminess.

Notes

Optional | Drizzle with cashew cream.