Butternut squash is one of those magical ingredients that can transform any dish into a cozy, heartwarming experience. Seriously, whether you’re roasting, mashing, or pureeing, this vibrant veggie brings such a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor to the table. I absolutely adore how versatile it is—perfect for a rustic autumn stew or a simple side dish that steals the show! My roasted butternut squash recipe is one of my go-to favorites, especially on chilly evenings. The aroma of garlic and thyme wafting through the house is just divine. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to make it a regular feature on your dinner table. It’s all about that comforting warmth and delicious flavor, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! 
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
You can easily adjust the seasoning to your taste, so don’t be shy! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different twist. You can also swap the olive oil for melted coconut oil for a hint of sweetness, or use avocado oil for a higher smoke point. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so much fun! Just remember, the key is to keep it simple and let the natural flavors of the butternut squash shine through.
How to Prepare Roasted Butternut Squash
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your butternut squash roasts evenly and gets that beautiful golden color. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Prepare the Butternut Squash
Now, let’s tackle that squash! Start by peeling the skin with a vegetable peeler—be careful, it can be a little tough! Once it’s peeled, cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Then, chop it into uniform cubes, about 1-inch in size. This helps them cook evenly, so you get that perfect tenderness. A sharp knife makes all the difference here—safety first!
Season the Squash
In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Make sure every piece gets a good coating—this is where the flavor magic happens! I usually use my hands to mix it all together; it feels so satisfying to get in there!
Spread and Roast
Next, spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. This is super important for even roasting, so don’t overcrowd the pan—give them space to breathe! Pop the sheet in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden. You’ll want to flip them halfway through for that lovely caramelization.
Serve Warm
Once they’re out of the oven, serve your roasted butternut squash warm. They make a delightful side dish or can even shine as a main event when paired with grains or greens. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoying this dish right after cooking is the best part—just wait for that heavenly aroma to fill your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 45 minutes!
- Healthy ingredients that are naturally vegan and packed with nutrients.
- Versatile serving options—perfect as a side dish or a main event.
- Great flavor with a sweet and savory balance that everyone will love.
- Beautiful golden color that adds a pop of warmth to your table.
- Simple enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough for special occasions.
- Customize with your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your roasted butternut squash turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some handy tips that I swear by:
- Check for Tenderness: About 20 minutes into roasting, I like to give the squash a little poke with a fork. You want it to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on it!
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste and tweak! If you prefer a little more kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. And if you love garlic, go ahead and add a bit more garlic powder.
- Experiment with Herbs: While thyme and garlic are classic favorites, feel free to mix in other herbs! Fresh rosemary or sage can bring a whole new flavor profile to the dish. Just remember, fresh herbs can be a bit stronger, so start with a smaller amount.
- Use a Big Enough Baking Sheet: Make sure you’re using a large enough baking sheet so the squash has room to roast rather than steam. If they’re too crowded, they won’t get that lovely caramelization!
- Save the Seeds: If you’re up for it, don’t toss those seeds! Roast them with a bit of oil and salt for a crunchy, nutty snack. It’s a great way to reduce waste and add a little extra something to your meal.
With these tips in your back pocket, I just know you’ll ace this recipe! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s in this delicious roasted butternut squash! Each serving is packed with good-for-you nutrients while still being super satisfying. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 82
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of how wholesome this dish really is! You’ll get a delightful mix of vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your meals without any guilt. Enjoy the warmth and flavor while knowing you’re treating your body right!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a convenient option and can save you time. Just toss it directly into the oven without thawing first. Keep in mind that the cooking time might be a little longer since it’s frozen, so check for tenderness as you roast.
What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?
Roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! You can serve it alongside grains like quinoa or rice for a filling meal, or enjoy it with a hearty salad. It also complements proteins like grilled chicken, fish, or even beans for a vegan option. The sweet and savory flavors really elevate any dish!
How do I store leftovers?
To store your leftover roasted butternut squash, simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. You can easily reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Just a quick tip: a splash of olive oil before reheating can help bring back that delicious flavor!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your roasted butternut squash properly is key to maintaining its delightful flavor and texture. After your squash has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for about 3–5 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to prevent any moisture from sneaking in!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze! I recommend popping it back in the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then spread the squash on a baking sheet and warm it up for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain that lovely caramelization and keeps the squash from getting mushy.
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just place your desired amount in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until it’s warmed to your liking. You might want to drizzle a little olive oil on top before reheating to bring back some of that delicious richness. Enjoy your tasty squash again, and savor those wonderful flavors all over!
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Butternut Squash: 7 Heartwarming Recipes for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delicious roasted butternut squash with herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cube the butternut squash.
- In a large bowl, mix the squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender and golden.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Try adding other herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 82
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: butternut squash, roasted vegetables, healthy side dish
