Irresistible Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe for Fall

When you think of autumn, what comes to mind? Crisp leaves, cozy sweaters, and the unmistakable smell of roasted butternut squash wafting through the kitchen. The earthy sweetness of this vibrant vegetable caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that’s not just a side but a soul-soothing experience. cranberry upside down bundt cake fall-inspired caramel apple cupcakes Every bite feels like a warm hug from Grandma, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.

Roasted butternut squash is more than just a feast for your taste buds; it’s an opportunity to create memories around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made this dish for friends during a potluck. They were skeptical at first, eyeing the strange gourd as if it might jump off the plate and attack them. But after one bite, their faces lit up like they’d found hidden treasure. Now, they request it at every gathering!

I still chuckle when I recall how my friends devoured this dish like it was the last slice of pizza at a party.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Look for firm squashes with smooth skin; avoid any with soft spots for best flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste; it enhances the squash’s natural sweetness. For more inspiration, check out this Orange Custard Squares recipe.
• Salt: A good pinch of sea salt elevates the flavors; don’t be shy!
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth and depth; it’s essential for balance.
• Optional Spices: Consider cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warmth; they complement the squash beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. gingerbread thumbprint cookies.

Let’s Make It Together

Now that you have your ingredients ready and your excitement simmering (like my coffee on Monday mornings), let’s dive into making our roasted butternut squash masterpiece!

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot environment is essential for caramelizing those sugars and achieving that beautiful golden color.

Prepare the Squash: Cut off both ends of your butternut squash and carefully peel it with a sharp knife or vegetable peeler. Watch those fingers! Then slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out those seeds – you’re not carving pumpkins here.

Cubing Time!: Cut each half into cubes about one inch thick. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly; nobody likes a rogue chunk that’s rock hard while others are perfectly tender.

Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine your cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you fancy. Toss until every piece is coated – think of it as giving each cube a spa day before they hit the oven!

Spread on Baking Sheet: Lay out your seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Don’t overcrowd them; we want them to roast rather than steam!

Roast Away!: Pop that baking sheet into the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through until they’re fork-tender and caramelized on edges—your kitchen will smell incredible!

And there you have it! Simple steps lead to an amazing dish that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy your roasted butternut squash hot or at room temperature—it’s versatile enough to shine anytime!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash into even cubes and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also mix in maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness. Add toasted nuts or dried cranberries for texture and a flavor boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it retains its delicious texture. crispy roast potatoes.

The first time I made roasted butternut squash, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their compliments made my day and convinced me to keep this recipe as a go-to side dish. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

FAQ

How do I choose the right butternut squash?

Look for squash that’s firm, heavy, and has a smooth skin without blemishes.

Can I prep butternut squash ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop it a day before roasting to save time.

What dishes pair well with roasted butternut squash?

It complements salads, grain bowls, or serves as a side to meats beautifully.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Roasted Butternut Squash

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• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Embrace autumn with this delightful roasted butternut squash recipe! The sweet, nutty flavor of caramelized butternut squash creates the perfect side dish for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this dish transforms any meal into a comforting experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy it solo, in salads, or paired with your favorite proteins!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 lbs)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off both ends of the butternut squash, peel it, and slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds.
3. Cube the squash into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
4. In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional spices until evenly coated.
5. Spread the seasoned squash on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through until tender and caramelized.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ¾ cup (100g)
• Calories: 82
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 293mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg