Roasted butternut squash is a sweet and nutty veggie that is super easy to make. Just chop it up, toss it with a little olive oil, and roast until it’s tender and golden!
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is amazing! I love pairing it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. It’s a cozy side that’ll win over all your guests! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: The star of this dish! Look for a firm squash with smooth skin. If butternut squash isn’t available, pumpkin or acorn squash works well too, although they have slightly different flavors.
Olive Oil: Essential for roasting, it helps to enhance the flavor. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil is a great choice for roasting due to its high smoke point.
Herbs and Spices: I recommend fresh rosemary for its fragrant and earthy notes. If you can’t find it, dried rosemary works in a pinch. You could also try thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful depth. If you’re not a fan, simply skip it or substitute with regular paprika for a milder taste. The dish will still be delicious!
Cinnamon/Nutmeg: A small pinch adds warmth to the sweetness of the squash. If you prefer, you can leave it out or use allspice instead for a similar effect.
How Do I Get the Butternut Squash Perfectly Roasted?
Getting that perfect roast involves just a few simple steps. The goal is to achieve tender squash with golden, caramelized edges!
- First, remember to cube the squash evenly (about 1 to 1½ inches). This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Next, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the squash space so they roast instead of steam!
- Flipping halfway through helps them brown evenly. Use a spatula to turn the pieces gently.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; it should slide in easily when they’re ready.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly roasted butternut squash every time, ready to enjoy as a delightful side dish! 🍂
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. With a total time of around 40 minutes, you can have a tasty and healthy side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to caramelize the squash, giving it a delicious flavor. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash:
Using a vegetable peeler, peel the butternut squash carefully. Cut off both ends, then slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and any fibrous strands inside. Now, chop the squash into roughly 1 to 1½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking throughout.
3. Season the Squash:
Transfer the cubed squash into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the squash is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
4. Arrange and Roast:
Spread the seasoned squash cubes out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, as this could cause them to steam instead of roast. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the squash halfway through to help them brown evenly.
5. Add a Touch of Spice (Optional):
If you like a warm hint of spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the squash in the last 5 minutes of roasting. Gently toss to incorporate the spices before finishing the roasting process.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is beautifully golden and tender, remove it from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Feel free to garnish with a few fresh rosemary sprigs for a lovely presentation. Serve warm and enjoy this tasty addition to your meal!
Enjoy the sweet, savory, and slightly herbal flavor of perfectly roasted butternut squash!
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is a great choice, you can also use acorn squash or pumpkin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and type of squash used.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! The ingredients listed, including olive oil, garlic powder, and seasonings, do not contain any animal products, making it a perfect plant-based side dish.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the butternut squash, toss it with the seasonings, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. Just give it a little stir before popping it in the oven!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Roasted Butternut Squash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to keep them moist while reheating.
