
This savory butternut squash crumble brings a delightful twist to the classic sweet dessert. The squash transforms into a silky smooth puree topped with a crispy parmesan crust that never fails to impress dinner guests. The recipe was perfected during autumn evenings when looking for new ways to prepare seasonal squash.
A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dish
This recipe has become a staple for fall entertaining. The warmth and comfort it brings makes it perfect for gatherings with friends and family. The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs beautifully with the crunchy crumble topping, while crispy bacon adds just the right touch of saltiness.
Key Components for Success
- Butternut Base: Choose a ripe squash for optimal sweetness, homemade stock for depth of flavor, and creamy ricotta for extra smoothness.
- Filling: Crispy bacon pieces and caramelized onions create perfect textural contrast.
- Topping: Fresh-grated parmesan, day-old bread crumbs, and softened butter combine for the ideal crumble texture.
Preparation Steps
- Preparing the Squash
- Cut butternut into evenly-sized cubes for consistent cooking. Let the stock simmer to infuse flavors.
- Building Flavors
- Cook onions until translucent while bacon crisps and releases its savory aroma.
- Creating the Topping
- Gently work ingredients together until achieving a sandy texture that will become golden and crisp.
- Final Assembly
- Layer components in individual ramekins before baking to perfection.

Professional Tips
Always taste the butternut puree for seasoning before assembling. A fresh crack of black pepper over the crumble just before baking enhances the final flavor. Using aged Parmigiano Reggiano (24 months) creates an exceptionally flavorful golden crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prep this crumble ahead of time?
Sure! Get everything ready the day before. Just assemble and bake it fresh when you're ready to keep it nice and crispy.
- → What can I use instead of butternut squash?
Other great options are pumpkin or red kuri squash. Be sure to adjust cooking times for the squash variety you're using.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to get that crunch back on the crumble.
- → Is freezing this dish a good idea?
Freezing isn't recommended because it changes the texture of the crumble and the butternut squash puree.
- → Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the bacon for sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.