Roasted Butternut Squash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory flavor: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash while the seasoning adds depth, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

• Simple to prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is incredibly easy to make.

• Versatile: Roasted butternut squash can be served as a side dish, added to salads, or incorporated into soups and stews for extra richness.

• Healthy and hearty: This dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (optional, or thyme)

• 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Prepare the squash: Peel the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. Cut off the top and bottom ends, then slice the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.

3. Season the squash: Place the cubed squash on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Toss everything together until the squash is evenly coated in the oil and spices.

4. Roast the squash: Spread the squash cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is golden brown and tender. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the squash cubes to ensure even roasting.

5. Finish and serve: Once the squash is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven. If you’d like an added touch of sweetness, drizzle the squash with maple syrup or honey. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and flavor, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy contrast to the natural sweetness of the squash.

• Sweet and savory: For a sweeter version, toss the squash with a bit of brown sugar or coconut sugar before roasting.

• Roasted garlic: Add whole garlic cloves to the baking sheet for an aromatic boost and a caramelized flavor.

• Other herbs: In addition to rosemary or thyme, try using sage, oregano, or parsley for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze roasted squash for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat by roasting at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwaving for 1-2 minutes.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the leftover squash in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It can also be added to soups or stews directly from the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the butternut squash?

Yes, peeling is recommended for this recipe as it helps the squash cook evenly and the skin can be tough. However, if you’re roasting it whole, the skin can remain on.

Can I roast butternut squash without oil?

Yes, you can roast butternut squash without oil, though it may not caramelize as beautifully. If you prefer, you can use vegetable or chicken broth to toss the cubes before roasting for a lighter version.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used, but since it tends to release more water during cooking, it may not crisp up as well as fresh squash. Reduce the roasting time and pat the squash dry to remove excess moisture before roasting.

How do I know when the squash is done?

The squash is done when it’s golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. It should also have a slight caramelized color around the edges.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the squash a day in advance and store it in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

How can I make the squash crispy?

To get crispy roasted butternut squash, ensure the pieces are spread out evenly on the baking sheet with enough space for air to circulate. Flip the squash halfway through roasting to ensure even crisping.

Can I add other vegetables to the roast?

Absolutely! Butternut squash pairs wonderfully with other roasted vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I serve roasted butternut squash in a salad?

Yes! Roasted butternut squash is a fantastic addition to salads. Toss it with mixed greens, goat cheese, cranberries, or nuts for a hearty and flavorful salad.

Conclusion

Roasted Butternut Squash is an incredibly versatile, easy-to-make side dish that’s packed with natural sweetness and flavor. With its rich, caramelized exterior and tender interior, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether it’s a festive holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner. Try experimenting with different spices and herbs to make this dish your own, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.