Simple Roasted Butternut Squash

Let’s talk about the Simple Roasted Butternut Squash recipe—your new kitchen bestie! If you’re looking for a quick and healthy side dish, this one’s a winner. It’s super easy to make; all you need is a handful of ingredients and your oven does most of the work. The result? Golden, caramelized cubes of squash that are sweet, nutty, and full of cozy vibes. Perfect for snacking, tossing in a salad, or pairing with your favorite weeknight dinner. Ready to give it a go?

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About The Simple Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe

Roasted butternut squash is like a warm hug on a chilly day—it’s comforting, flavorful, and never goes out of style. This Simple Roasted Butternut Squash recipe likely reminds you of those cozy family dinners or holiday feasts. But here’s the best part: It’s not just a holiday treat. This recipe is so easy and flexible, you can whip it up any day of the week.

Butternut squash has been around for ages and is loved worldwide for its natural sweetness. When roasted, it turns into these soft yet crispy-edged bites with a nutty, caramel-like flavor. It’s basically fall on a plate!

What makes this recipe extra special? You only need simple ingredients—squash, olive oil, salt, and pepper—to create outrageously good results. You can even dress it up with herbs and spices if you’re feeling fancy. Whether you’re a pro cook or just learning your way around the kitchen, this is a recipe anyone can nail. And trust me, your taste buds (and your family) will thank you for it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make in under 40 minutes
  • Rich, caramelized flavor with minimal effort
  • Versatile side dish that pairs with almost any meal
  • Healthy and family-friendly option
  • Only a few simple, budget-friendly ingredients needed
  • Perfect for fall and winter meals

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Butternut Squash: The star! Feel free to swap with acorn squash or sweet potatoes if that’s what you have.
  • Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps the squash get that perfect roast. Avocado oil or melted coconut oil works too.
  • Salt: Keeps it savory and brings out the natural sweetness. Sea salt works best, but table salt is fine in a pinch.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a little kick of spice. White pepper or even paprika are fun alternatives.

How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even roasting and crispy edges.
  • Peel the butternut squash with a sharp peeler, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Take your time to keep them evenly sized for even cooking.
  • Toss the squash cubes in olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re well coated. You can do this in a large mixing bowl or directly on a baking sheet for less cleanup.
  • Spread the coated squash evenly on a large baking sheet, making sure they’re not crowded. Crowding = steaming, and we want roasting!
  • Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
  • Take the squash out of the oven when the edges are golden and caramelized. Let it cool slightly, then serve!

Expert Tips for Success

Don’t skip peeling your squash—the skin gets tough when roasted!
Cut your cubes the same size for even cooking.
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
Don’t crowd the baking sheet; spread the squash out into a single layer.
Want more flavor? Sprinkle cinnamon, garlic powder, or even some grated Parmesan on the squash before roasting.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is super versatile! Looking for a sweet twist? Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg along with the salt and pepper. Want something savory? Add some minced garlic or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting. For those who love a spicy kick, a pinch of chili powder or cayenne does the trick. You can even drizzle honey or balsamic glaze over the roasted squash for a gourmet touch.

Nutritional Information

This Simple Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is not just tasty, it’s healthy too! A one-cup serving is around 120 calories, making it light yet satisfying. You’ll get plenty of complex carbs to keep you full, a little bit of fiber, and almost no fat (unless you’re generous with the olive oil!). Butternut squash is also a great source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium—which is like a metabolism-boosting trifecta. Add this to your meal, and you’re serving up a nutritious win!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! Store your roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes—this helps bring back its crispy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 2 minutes if you’re in a rush, but it might lose some of that toasty crunch.

Recipe Card of Simple Roasted Butternut Squash

5 from 1 vote
Alicia Smith
This effortlessly roasted butternut squash comes out beautifully tender and flavorful, with just the perfect crispy edges. It's a breeze to prepare with only four ingredients, making it an ideal side for any fall or holiday meal.
Simple Roasted Butternut Squash
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 177 kcal

Ingredients list
  

  • 1 medium butternut squash
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • salt and ground black pepper to taste
Simple Roasted Butternut Squash recipe ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions
 

  • Gather all the ingredients and preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  • Grab your squash and peel it with a sharp vegetable peeler. Halve it lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  • Cut the halves into 1-inch slices, and then cube those slices into 1-inch squares.
  • In a large bowl, mix the butternut squash cubes with olive oil and minced garlic, ensuring each piece is well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Spread the squash in a single layer over a baking sheet.
  • Bake until it's tender and lightly browned, approximately 25-35 minutes.

Notes

Transform this simple dish into a delightful centerpiece by exploring various seasonings and toppings. Share your own twists!

Nutrition

Calories: 177kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 11mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6g
Keyword butternut squash, roasted squash, squash dish
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All Your Questions About This Recipe

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the butternut squash earlier in the day and reheat with no problem. It’s a great time-saver for busy nights or holiday meals.

Do I need to peel the butternut squash?

Yes, peeling is recommended for the best texture. The skin gets tough when roasted, so it’s better to remove it.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Frozen squash works, but keep in mind it might not caramelize as well as fresh squash. Thaw and pat dry before roasting for better results.

What if I don’t have olive oil?

No worries! You can use avocado oil, melted coconut oil, or even a neutral vegetable oil instead.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely! Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.

1 thought on “Simple Roasted Butternut Squash”

  1. 5 stars
    Wow, this Simple Roasted Butternut Squash recipe sounds amazing! I love that it only uses four ingredients and gets those perfectly crispy edges. I think I might sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or toss in some rosemary before roasting for an extra flavor twist. Thanks for the inspiration—this is perfect for cozy fall dinners! 🍂

    Reply
5 from 1 vote

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