Butternut Squash Recipes: Sweet & Savory Delights

Butternut squash recipes are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. I remember one Thanksgiving when my son, Jake, insisted on helping me make a sweet butternut squash mash. He ended up adding a bit too much maple syrup, but we laughed it off and enjoyed a sweet treat that became a family favorite. Today, I’m excited to share some sweet and savory delights that will make your holiday table shine.

Why You’ll Love It

• Butternut squash is versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
• It’s packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
• The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with spices and savory ingredients.

Pure Comfort

There’s something about the creamy texture and rich flavor of butternut squash that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re preparing a comforting side dish or a hearty main course, these recipes will fill your home with delightful aromas.

What You Need

• 4 cups 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed – You can substitute with buttercup squash if needed.
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can use melted butter for a richer flavor.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp black pepper – Add more for extra spice.
• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup maple syrup – Honey can be used as a substitute.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp cinnamon – Nutmeg works well too.
• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup chopped pecans – Walnuts are a good alternative.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prep the squash a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400 °F. This will ensure your butternut squash roasts evenly and gets that lovely caramelization.
2. Next, peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. You want them uniform so they cook at the same rate. The vibrant orange color is a good sign that they’re fresh.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated well. This will help them roast beautifully and develop a nice golden color.
4. Spread the squash out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow for even roasting. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
5. While the squash is roasting, mix the maple syrup and cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will add a sweet glaze that complements the squash perfectly.
6. After 25 minutes, drizzle the maple syrup mixture over the squash and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. The squash should be tender and glistening with the syrup. It’s ready to serve!
8. Serve warm as a side dish or even as a main course. The combination of sweet and savory will impress everyone at your table.

Make It Perfect

• For a quicker prep, buy pre-cut butternut squash from the grocery store.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

Mix It Up

• Try adding cooked quinoa or rice for a heartier dish.
• Mix in some sautéed onions or garlic for extra flavor.

Perfect Partners

• Pairs well with roasted chicken or turkey for Thanksgiving.
• Great alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal.

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Conclusion

These butternut squash recipes are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Whether you choose to make a sweet dish or a savory delight, your family and friends will love the flavors. So, grab that squash and get cooking!

Butternut Squash Recipes: Sweet & Savory Delights

Butternut squash recipes offer a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall with both sweet and savory dishes. These recipes are packed with nutrients and are perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Side

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Large bowl

Ingredients

  

Butternut Squash

• 4 cups 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed You can substitute with buttercup squash if needed.
• 2 tbsp olive oil Can use melted butter for a richer flavor.
• 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper Add more for extra spice.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup Honey can be used as a substitute.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon Nutmeg works well too.
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans Walnuts are a good alternative.

Instructions

 

• Start by preheating your oven to 400 °F. This will ensure your butternut squash roasts evenly and gets that lovely caramelization.
• Next, peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. You want them uniform so they cook at the same rate. The vibrant orange color is a good sign that they’re fresh.
• In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated well. This will help them roast beautifully and develop a nice golden color.
• Spread the squash out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow for even roasting. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
• While the squash is roasting, mix the maple syrup and cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will add a sweet glaze that complements the squash perfectly.
• After 25 minutes, drizzle the maple syrup mixture over the squash and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. The squash should be tender and glistening with the syrup. It’s ready to serve!
• Serve warm as a side dish or even as a main course. The combination of sweet and savory will impress everyone at your table.

Keyword butternut squash, Fall Recipes, savory recipes, sweet recipes, Thanksgiving, vegetarian