Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.

Its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture make it a favorite for many, whether served as a side or a star on your plate.

This simple preparation transforms the squash into a golden, caramelized delight, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.

What’s more, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just a few ingredients and a little time in the oven turn this humble vegetable into something truly special.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, roasted butternut squash is a delicious way to savor the season’s best flavors. Let’s get into how to make this heartwarming dish!

Table of Contents

Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe

Ingredients

1 large butternut squash (about 3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 ½ tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
1-2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (optional, omit for Whole30)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon fine sea salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)

Optional Seasonings

Chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or sage for garnish
½ – 1 teaspoon of any of these seasonings to taste: dried or fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or oregano

Instructions

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet (or two if needed) with parchment paper.
Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the skin from the butternut squash. Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp. Next, chop the squash into 1-inch cubes.
Place the butternut squash cubes in a large mixing bowl or on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the avocado or olive oil. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, maple syrup (if using), salt, and black pepper over the squash. Add any optional seasonings you like. Toss everything together gently using your hands or tongs until the squash is evenly coated.
Spread the squash cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overlapping. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You can flip the squash halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. The squash is done when it’s tender and has golden brown edges.
Once roasted, transfer the squash to a serving plate or bowl. If desired, sprinkle with fresh herbs for an added touch. Enjoy your warm roasted butternut squash as a delicious side dish!

How To Peel Butternut Squash?

Peeling a butternut squash may seem tricky, but it’s simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s how to get the job done without a fuss:

Start by washing the squash to remove any dirt or debris.
Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Hold the squash steady and peel from top to bottom.
Trim the ends with a sharp knife to create a flat surface so the squash doesn’t roll while you’re peeling.
If the skin is too tough, you can microwave the squash for about 1-2 minutes to soften it slightly, making it easier to peel.

Once peeled, you’re ready to move on to cutting!

How To Cut Butternut Squash?

Cutting butternut squash can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller pieces helps. Here’s a simple guide to make it easier:

Cut off both ends of the squash to give you a flat surface to work with.
Slice the squash in half lengthwise, from top to bottom. Be careful and use a sharp, sturdy knife.
Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center using a spoon.
Cut each half into smaller chunks by slicing the squash into 1-inch thick rings or cubes. This size is perfect for roasting!

How To Season Butternut Squash?

The beauty of butternut squash is that it works well with many flavors, so you can get creative with the seasoning! Here’s a few ideas to enhance its natural sweetness:

Basic Seasoning: A drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper is simple but tasty.
Sweet Flavors: Add a little cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Savory Flavors: Use garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika for a more savory taste.
Herbs for Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, or thyme make for a beautiful and tasty garnish after roasting.

How Long To Cook Butternut Squash?

The cooking time for butternut squash depends on how you prepare it. Here’s a quick guide for roasting, boiling, and steaming:

Roasting: If cut into 1-inch cubes, roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
Boiling: Boil butternut squash cubes for around 10-15 minutes until tender.
Steaming: Steam squash cubes for about 15-20 minutes until soft.

For all methods, make sure to test with a fork—if it slides in easily, your squash is done!

How To Serve Roasted Butternut Squash?

Roasted butternut squash is so versatile that you can enjoy it in many different ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

As a side dish: Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dash of extra salt or pepper.
In salads: Toss it into a leafy green salad with ingredients like feta cheese, dried cranberries, and a light vinaigrette.
With grains: Pair it with quinoa, couscous, or rice for a heartier meal.
As a soup topping: Use roasted cubes to garnish soups like butternut squash or pumpkin soup for added texture and flavor.

However you choose to serve it, roasted butternut squash is a delicious and healthy addition to your meal.

Is Butternut Squash Healthy?

Yes, butternut squash is packed with nutrients and is incredibly good for you! Here’s why:

Rich in Vitamins: Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system and eye health.
Good Source of Fiber: It contains plenty of fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you feeling full.
Low in Calories: Despite its natural sweetness, butternut squash is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice.
Full of Antioxidants: Antioxidants in butternut squash help protect your body from harmful free radicals, keeping you healthy.

How To Store, Freeze, And Reheat Roasted Butternut Squash?

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious roasted butternut squash, knowing how to store, freeze, and reheat it can help you enjoy it later! Here’s a simple guide:

Storing Roasted Butternut Squash

Cool Completely: Let the roasted squash cool down to room temperature before storing.
Use an Airtight Container: Place the squash in a clean, airtight container to keep it fresh.
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Make sure to label the container with the date.

Freezing Roasted Butternut Squash

Prepare for Freezing: After cooling, spread the squash cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours until firm. This helps prevent them from sticking together.
Transfer to a Freezer Bag: Once frozen, move the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Label and Store: Write the date on the bag. You can freeze roasted butternut squash for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Butternut Squash

In the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the squash on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
In the Microwave: Place the squash in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
In a Skillet: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the squash and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed.

Tips For Success When Making Butternut Squash In The Oven

Making roasted butternut squash can be easy and fun! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your squash turns out perfectly every time:

Choose a Good Squash: Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size with smooth skin and no soft spots.
Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the squash easier and safer. If the squash is tough to cut, try microwaving it for a minute to soften it slightly.
Cut Uniformly: Try to cut the squash into even 1-inch cubes. This helps it cook evenly, so some pieces don’t burn while others are still hard.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the squash enough space on the baking sheet. If you crowd it, it will steam instead of roast, which can make it less crispy.
Flip Halfway Through: Turning the squash halfway through cooking helps it roast evenly and get a nice golden color on all sides.
Taste and Adjust: Once cooked, taste your squash. You can always add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your liking.