Why Make This Recipe
Roasted butternut squash is a simple and delicious dish that everyone can enjoy. It is a perfect side that pairs well with many meals. The natural sweetness of the squash shines through when roasted, and the caramelization adds a lovely richness. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with vitamins!
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional: Herbs like rosemary or thyme
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cube the butternut squash.
- In a bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
How to Serve Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash is great on its own or served with a variety of dishes. You can enjoy it as a side with grilled chicken or fish. It also fits well in salads and grain bowls. For a comforting meal, pair it with rice or quinoa.
How to Store Roasted Butternut Squash
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay good for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Roasted Butternut Squash
- Make sure to cut the squash into evenly sized cubes for even cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences.
- For added flavor, try tossing the squash with garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice before roasting.
Make-Ahead, Meal-Prep & Reheat
Prep ahead (2–3 days): Peel/cube squash, toss with oil + salt, and refrigerate airtight. Roast just before serving.
Batch roast (freezer-friendly): Roast fully, cool, then freeze flat on a sheet. Transfer to bags; reheat at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 min from frozen.
Best reheat (keeps edges crisp): 425°F (220°C) oven for 5–10 min, or air fryer 390°F (200°C) for 4–6 min.
Variation
You can add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, for a colorful and nutritious mix. For a sweet twist, sprinkle some cinnamon or maple syrup over the squash before roasting.
FAQs
CAN I ROAST FROM FROZEN?
Yes. Spread frozen cubes on a preheated sheet, toss with oil/salt/pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–35 min, flipping once. Preheating the pan helps avoid sogginess.
HOW DO I GET MAXIMUM CARAMELIZATION?
Pat cubes dry, don’t crowd the pan, use a light oil coating, and roast on a dark metal sheet. Don’t stir until the 15–18 minute mark so one side can really brown.
WHAT OIL WORKS BEST?
Olive oil is great; for higher browning use avocado or grapeseed. Butter tastes lovely but can brown fast—use it as a finisher after roasting.
CAN I LEAVE THE SKIN ON?
You can if the squash is young and the skin tender. Roast slightly longer; the skin will soften and adds fiber. Most prefer peeled for this simple side.
HOW DO I SEASON WITHOUT MEASURING?
Rule of thumb per 1 medium squash: 2 tbsp oil, ¾–1 tsp kosher salt, ¼–½ tsp black pepper. Taste and finish with flaky salt if needed.
WHY DID MY SQUASH TURN MUSHY?
Likely overcrowding, under-preheating, or cubes cut too small. Spread out, use ¾–1 inch cubes, and roast hotter (425°F/220°C) for more color, then drop to 400°F (200°C) if needed.
CAN I MAKE IT SPICIER OR SWEETER?
Yes—add chili flakes or cayenne before roasting for heat; drizzle 1–2 tsp maple or honey in the last 5 minutes for a glossy, sweet finish.
Roasted Butternut Squash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- Optional: Herbs like rosemary or thyme
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and cube the butternut squash.
- In a bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.