Are you looking for a side dish that's both effortlessly elegant and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this 30-Minute Irresistible Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash! This recipe transforms humble butternut squash into a caramelized, sweet-and-savory sensation that's perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any meal in between. It's so simple, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Why You'll Love This Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
This recipe isn't just easy; it's a revelation. Butternut squash, a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, truly shines when roasted. The high heat of the oven brings out its natural sweetness, while a touch of brown sugar creates a beautiful caramelization on the edges. Combined with a hint of cinnamon, salt, and pepper, you get a harmonious blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Quick & Easy Prep
One of the best parts about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven, you can have a gourmet-tasting side dish ready in half an hour. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something homemade but don't have a lot of time.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Butternut Squash
Choosing Your Squash
When selecting a butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, unblemished skin. Avoid any with soft spots or mold.
Safe & Easy Cutting
Cutting butternut squash can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few simple tricks, it's a breeze. First, ensure you have a sturdy cutting board and a quality chef's knife. Trim both ends of the squash to create flat surfaces. Then, stand it upright and carefully slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. You can then peel the skin with a vegetable peeler, or if you prefer, roast it with the skin on (it's edible!). For this recipe, we recommend peeling and dicing into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan
For maximum caramelization and crisp edges, make sure your squash pieces are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they're too crowded, they'll steam instead of roast, leading to a softer, less flavorful result. Use two baking sheets if necessary!
Serving Suggestions
This versatile brown sugar roasted butternut squash pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside:
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Grilled pork chops
- Pan-seared salmon
- As part of a vegetarian bowl with quinoa and greens
- Tossed in a salad for added sweetness and texture
It's also a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner spread, offering a vibrant and healthy alternative to heavier side dishes.
Ready to Get Roasting?
This 30-minute irresistible brown sugar roasted butternut squash is about to become a staple in your kitchen. It's simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and perfectly tender results!
FAQs
Can I make this butternut squash recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the butternut squash ahead of time and reheat it gently in the oven or microwave. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's ideal to serve it fresh.
What are some variations for this roasted butternut squash?
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick, or a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during roasting. A drizzle of maple syrup instead of brown sugar also works beautifully.
How do I store leftover roasted butternut squash?
Store any leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or even enjoyed cold in salads.
What's the easiest way to cut a butternut squash?
To safely cut a butternut squash, first, trim off both ends. Stand it upright and carefully slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. You can then peel it with a vegetable peeler, or if roasting with the skin, simply dice it. Using a quality chef's knife makes this task much easier and safer.
30-Minute Irresistible Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy and quick recipe creates perfectly tender, sweet, and savory butternut squash roasted with brown sugar, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, deseeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with olive oil, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Toss everything together until the squash pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Spread the seasoned butternut squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the pieces are not overcrowded to allow for proper roasting and caramelization.
Step 4: Roast for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your squash cubes.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your irresistible brown sugar roasted butternut squash!
Notes
For extra crispiness, spread the squash in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat, or a dash of nutmeg for an even warmer flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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