Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted Butternut Squash is a simple and delicious dish that turns a humble vegetable into a flavorful and satisfying side. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash, with a golden, crispy exterior and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth inside. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a festive holiday meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, easy-to-make side dish. With just three ingredients—olive oil, salt, and pepper—you can elevate the squash’s natural sweetness while maintaining its rich, hearty flavor. The roasting process caramelizes the squash, giving it a savory-sweet taste that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adjust with extra seasonings like rosemary or thyme, making it customizable to your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon salt & pepper (to taste)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper. If you like, place the whole squash directly on the oven rack while it preheats for up to 5 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.

2. Peel the squash: Trim the ends and use a Y-peeler to remove the hard skin, working around the squash twice.

3. Scoop out the seeds: Use a medium cookie scoop or a sharp-edged spoon to remove the seeds from the squash.

4. Cut into cubes: Slice the squash in half lengthwise, then cut into 1-inch slices, and finally into 1-inch cubes.

5. Roast: Place the butternut squash cubes onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender when poked with a fork. For extra browning, use a convection setting or broil for 3 minutes at the end.

6. Serve & Enjoy! Serve the roasted butternut squash warm as a side dish. If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a review and share your thoughts!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: For extra flavor, sprinkle thyme, rosemary, or sage over the squash before roasting.

• Sweeten It Up: Drizzle with maple syrup or honey before roasting for a sweet, caramelized finish.

• Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or paprika to bring a warm, spiced flavor.

• Vegan Parmesan: For a savory twist, sprinkle some vegan Parmesan over the squash before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the squash in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in a microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

How do I peel a butternut squash easily?

Use a sharp Y-peeler to remove the tough skin, and be sure to peel in long, smooth strokes to avoid waste.

Can I roast the butternut squash with the skin on?

While you can technically leave the skin on, it’s tough and may not soften during roasting. Peeling it first will give the squash a better texture.

How do I make sure the squash cooks evenly?

Cut the squash into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Also, make sure to spread the cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet.

What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?

It pairs well with roasted meats, quinoa, or other hearty vegetables. You can also serve it as a standalone side with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Can I freeze roasted butternut squash?

Yes! After roasting and cooling, store the squash in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Fresh squash works best for roasting, but if using frozen, adjust the roasting time to account for extra moisture in the cubes.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika to the squash before roasting for a spicy kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Roasted butternut squash is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Can I use a different oil for roasting?

Yes, you can use avocado oil, coconut oil, or any other oil with a high smoke point in place of olive oil.

How can I get the squash to be extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, spread the squash cubes in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. You can also use the broiler for the last few minutes of roasting to get a golden brown finish.

Conclusion

This Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is a perfect side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and richness of the vegetable. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or holiday meals. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to make it your own. Whether you enjoy it with a drizzle of honey or sprinkled with fresh herbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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