Oven-roasted butternut squash is a deliciously sweet and savory side dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. With its tender texture, caramelized edges, and rich flavor, this versatile dish can complement anything from hearty roasts to light salads.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients make this a stress-free addition to your meal.
- Naturally Sweet: Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of butternut squash, creating a flavor-packed dish.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, added to salads, or even blended into soups.
- Healthy: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it’s a nutritious choice for any diet.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Butternut squash
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Squash: Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half, and remove the seeds. Dice it into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Season the Squash: Toss the cubed squash in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Mix until evenly coated.
- Roast the Squash: Spread the cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot as a side dish or use in your favorite recipes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add Sweetness: Sprinkle with cinnamon and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before roasting for a dessert-like side.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Touch: Toss with fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Parmesan Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the squash during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy crust.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
How do I peel a butternut squash easily?
Use a sturdy vegetable peeler to remove the skin, and cut off the ends for stability while slicing.
Can I roast butternut squash without peeling it?
Yes, the skin is edible and becomes tender when roasted. If you prefer a rustic feel, leave it on.
How do I prevent the squash from becoming mushy?
Ensure the cubes are spaced out on the baking sheet to allow even roasting and avoid steaming.
What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?
It pairs well with roasted meats, grain bowls, salads, or as a topping for soups.
Can I freeze roasted butternut squash?
Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to an airtight container.
What other spices work well with butternut squash?
Cumin, nutmeg, allspice, and chili powder are excellent options to explore.
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Absolutely! Pre-cut squash saves time; just ensure it’s fresh and evenly sized.
Is roasted butternut squash healthy?
Yes, it’s low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins A and C, making it a nutrient-dense side dish.
Can I roast other vegetables with the squash?
Yes, try adding carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts to create a medley.
Why does my squash stick to the pan?
Make sure to toss the squash with enough oil and use parchment paper or a non-stick baking sheet.
Conclusion
Oven-roasted butternut squash is an easy and flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is nutritious. Whether you serve it as a side, toss it into salads, or blend it into soups, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy the rich, caramelized goodness of roasted squash!
Print
Oven-Roasted Butternut Squash
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
Oven-Roasted Butternut Squash is a simple yet flavorful side dish with caramelized edges and a tender, sweet interior. With a touch of olive oil and seasoning, this versatile dish pairs well with any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional Garnishes: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Prepare the Squash:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Ensure the squash is evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the cubes are not overcrowded for even roasting.
- Roast the Squash:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the squash halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the squash is fork-tender.
- Serve:
- Transfer the roasted squash to a serving dish. Garnish with parsley, Parmesan, or a drizzle of honey, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a sweeter version, toss the squash with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar before roasting.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Use pre-cut butternut squash to save time on prep.