This roasted butternut squash is sweet and creamy, making it a perfect side dish. Just toss the squash with some olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs!
I love watching it turn golden and smell amazing as it roasts in the oven. Plus, it’s so easy to make that I can whip it up even on busy nights. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This sweet squash adds a lovely creaminess when roasted. If you can’t find butternut squash, you can swap it with acorn squash or pumpkin. They will give a similar flavor, but butternut squash is generally sweeter.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil helps in roasting and gives a nice flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil. However, I often prefer avocado oil for its high smoke point and rich taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth to the flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder will work, but use less (about 1/2 teaspoon). For those who prefer a milder taste, roast the garlic separately and toss it in at the end.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme is my favorite because it gives a more vibrant flavor. If thyme isn’t your thing, rosemary or sage would work well too, adding a different but delightful twist.
Maple Syrup/Honey: This is optional but adds a lovely sweetness that contrasts with the savory notes. You can leave it out if you prefer a more traditional savory dish or use brown sugar if needed.
How Do I Get My Butternut Squash Perfectly Roasted?
Getting that perfect roast on butternut squash is key to a great dish. Here are my simple tips to ensure your squash comes out tender and delicious:
- Cut Evenly: Make sure your squash cubes are cut into uniform sizes. This helps them roast evenly, so you won’t end up with some pieces being undercooked and others burnt.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Spread the squash out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Crowding will steam the squash instead of roasting it, making it mushy.
- Flip Halfway: Turning the squash halfway through the cooking time allows for even browning. This step is crucial for those caramelized edges that make roasted squash so tasty.
- Check for Doneness: When the time is up, give the squash a poke with a fork. It should be tender and easily pierced. If it’s still firm, let it roast a few more minutes.
Enjoy your perfectly roasted butternut squash! It’s such a comforting side that pairs beautifully with various dishes.
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, simple, and the result is a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help the squash caramelize beautifully, giving you that sweet and savory flavor!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Next, peel the butternut squash, cut it in half, and scoop out the seeds. Then, chop the squash into even 1-inch cubes. This uniform size ensures they cook evenly.
3. Season the Squash:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed squash with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until all the squash pieces are evenly coated with the oil and spices. If you want to add a bit of sweetness, now is the time to drizzle in some maple syrup or honey and give it another toss!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure not to crowd the squash; giving them space will help them roast rather than steam.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip the pieces halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. If desired, add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious roasted butternut squash!
This easy recipe enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash while adding savory, herbal notes from the garlic and thyme. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal—enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash! Just be aware that it may release more moisture while roasting. Thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels to help achieve that desirable caramelization.
What Can I Serve with Roasted Butternut Squash?
Roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grains like quinoa or rice, or can be added to salads for a sweet touch. It’s a versatile side that complements many dishes!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can add spices like cinnamon, cumin, or paprika for different flavor profiles. Just adjust according to your taste preference!