Ingredients

1 butternut squash
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage or 1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage
2 teaspoons olive oil , divided
1 lb mild sausage , crumbled or sliced ( I prefer Aidell 's brand chicken and apple sausage )
1 cup diced onion
1 small sweet apple , diced ( gala , pink lady , or golden delicious , for example )
2 garlic cloves , minced
1 cup uncooked arborio rice or 1 cup other short-grain rice
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
cooking spray
1/2 cup grated fresh parmesan cheese
This tasty casserole combines butternut squash, rice, and sausage for a delicious and satisfying meal. The butternut squash adds a touch of sweetness and a good dose of vitamins and minerals, while the sausage provides hearty flavor and texture. The dish is topped with Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch of salty goodness. Best of all, it's easy to make and perfect for meal prepping or serving at a family dinner. This recipe is sure to become a favorite comfort food in your household.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F.
2.Cut the Butternut Squash in half, scoop out and discard the seeds.
3.In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the chicken broth, water, and fresh or dried sage.
4.Microwave for 4 minutes and stir in 1 teaspoon olive oil.
5.In a large skillet, cook the sausage, onions, apples, and garlic until the sausage is browned.
6.Add the uncooked rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7.Add the wine and cook until the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
8.Pour the mixture into the previously prepared baking dish.
9.Add the broth mixture and thyme to the baking dish, stirring to combine.
10.Cover the top of the butternut squash with cooking spray and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
11.Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12.Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the butternut squash is cooked through.

PROS

This casserole is a complete meal in one dish, packed with flavor and nutrition.

It’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping.

The butternut squash and other vegetables are nutrient-dense, providing important vitamins and minerals for overall health.

CONS

This dish requires some preparation and cooking time, so it’s not the best option for a quick weeknight dinner.

It contains sausage, which can be high in saturated fat and sodium.

Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid consuming too many calories and fat.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Butternut squash is a good source of vitamin A, which supports healthy vision, immune system function, and skin health.
It also contains vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
The brown rice in this recipe provides complex carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy for the body.
The use of chicken broth instead of cream or butter decreases the amount of saturated fat in the recipe.

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