Roasted butternut squash is a warm and cozy dish that brings a touch of sweetness to your table. Just chop, toss with some olive oil, and roast until tender and golden!
This dish is like nature’s candy! I love the way it makes the kitchen smell so good while it cooks. Perfect as a side or tossed in salads. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! You can choose a medium-sized squash, but if you find acorn squash or sweet potatoes, they can work too for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives the squash a great flavor, but you can also use canola oil or avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice touch of flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can use 1-2 cloves minced. Just add it a little later in the roasting process to avoid burning it!
Smoked Paprika/Chili Powder: These spices can add a fun kick! If you want something mild, a bit of Italian seasoning or just extra pepper works fine.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Roast on My Butternut Squash?
The key to really flavorful roasted butternut squash lies in the roasting process. Here are some important tips to make sure you nail it!
- Make sure your oven is preheated! Roasting at the right temperature gets those yummy, caramelized edges.
- Cut the squash into even-sized cubes to get a uniform cook. This way, everything will roast at the same time.
- A single layer on your baking sheet is crucial. If they’re crowded, they will steam instead of roast.
- Don’t skip on the flipping halfway through cooking. This helps brown all sides for a delicious finish.
Give it a whirl, and you’ll enjoy a beautiful, tender squash that’s perfect for any meal! Happy cooking!
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Coarse sea salt or flaky finishing salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 to 30 minutes to roast in the oven. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious roasted butternut squash in about 40 minutes. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to help the squash from sticking.
2. Prepare the Squash:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with the olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you’d like to add some bonus flavor, toss in garlic powder and smoked paprika or chili powder as well. Mix until all the squash is nicely coated with the oil and spices.
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the seasoned squash cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s some space between them; they shouldn’t be crowded. This way they will roast beautifully instead of steaming!
4. Roast Until Golden:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for about 25 to 30 minutes. Remember to flip the pieces halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know it’s done when the squash is tender and has a nice golden color on the edges.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once roasted, carefully remove the squash from the oven. Transfer it to a serving plate and give it a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or flaky finishing salt. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your roasted butternut squash warm either as a delightful side dish or toss it into salads or grain bowls for extra flavor. Enjoy that sweet, caramelized taste and the fragrant aroma of thyme!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before roasting, as the extra water can affect texture and roasting time.
How Do I Know When the Squash is Done Roasting?
The squash is done when it’s tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, with a golden-brown color on the edges. If in doubt, check a few pieces to ensure they are all cooked through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that different veggies may require different cooking times, so cut them to similar sizes as the squash for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.