As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on that crisp, comforting chill, it’s the perfect time to fill your kitchen with the rich aromas of autumn. Enter: roasted maple glazed butternut squash, an ideal side dish for any fall meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a festive autumn gathering, this dish will bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of sweetness to your table.
There’s something magical about the transformation of seasonal ingredients during this time of year. The natural sweetness of butternut squash, combined with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, makes this dish a quintessential autumn experience. Not only is it delicious, but it also reflects the essence of fall—comfort, coziness, and the joy of seasonal eating. The caramelized edges of the squash bring a depth of flavor that complements any main dish, while the hint of maple creates a satisfying sweetness without being overly indulgent. It’s a great way to connect with the season, bringing the bounty of fall right to your dinner table and creating moments of togetherness with those you love.
A Little Butternut Squash of History
Butternut squash, with its creamy texture and nutty sweetness, is a quintessential fall vegetable. Originally cultivated by Native Americans, it’s a close relative of pumpkins and gourds. This versatile vegetable has a fascinating history rooted in ancient agriculture, where it was valued not only for its flavor but also for its ability to be stored through long winters. Its adaptability and resilience made it an essential part of many traditional diets, and today, it remains a beloved staple of seasonal cooking for countless households. The natural sugars in butternut squash, when exposed to heat, transform it into something wonderfully caramelized and rich, making it a perfect candidate for roasting.
It’s not just the history that makes butternut squash so special—its nutritional benefits are impressive too. Rich in vitamins A and C, along with fiber and essential minerals, it contributes to a healthy immune system and glowing skin, making it a true autumn powerhouse. By roasting it to caramelized perfection, we’re bringing out its full potential. The addition of maple syrup enhances its natural sweetness while the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg lend it that comforting autumn essence. It’s a simple yet delightful way to celebrate the harvest season and bring the taste of fall into your home.
Delicious Pairings to Complete Your Meal
This roasted maple glazed butternut squash pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Serve it alongside a roasted chicken or a savory pork tenderloin for a comforting, balanced meal. It also works wonderfully with other fall sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes or Brussels sprouts.
For a vegetarian option, try pairing it with a hearty grain salad—quinoa with cranberries and pecans, for example, makes an excellent partner. And don’t forget the sauce! A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Creative Twists and Flavorful Variations
Want to make this Butternut Squash uniquely yours? Here are a few ideas to switch it up:
- Add Some Crunch: Toss a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts in with the squash before roasting for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Cranberry Glaze: For a festive touch, add some dried cranberries during the last 10 minutes of roasting. The cranberries will soften and add a pop of tartness that complements the maple glaze.
- Herby Delight: Swap out the thyme for rosemary or sage for a different herbal note that pairs beautifully with fall flavors.
Why Roasted Maple Glazed Butternut Squash?
Roasted maple glazed butternut squash is everything you want in a fall side dish: it’s sweet, savory, and caramelized, with a hint of earthiness that pairs perfectly with any main course. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make. This dish can be prepped in just minutes, and then the oven does all the work—filling your home with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone excited to sit down for dinner.
Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even a hearty autumn salad. The slight sweetness from the maple syrup complements savory dishes perfectly, adding just the right amount of depth and flavor to your plate. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or adding it to your Thanksgiving spread, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Roasted Maple Glazed Butternut Squash
4
servings15
minutes30
minutes
Roasted Maple Glazed Butternut Squash is a perfect autumn side dish that’s both simple and elegant. With its tender texture, warm spices, and caramelized edges, it brings a touch of fall flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Let’s Make This Autumn Delight!
Prep the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Carefully peel the butternut squash, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.Butternut squash can be a little tricky to peel and cut, so take your time—use a sharp vegetable peeler and a sturdy knife to make it easier. Once cut, make sure your pieces are similar in size to ensure even roasting.- Season the Squash: Place the squash cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, then sprinkle with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.The combination of maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg is what gives this dish its signature autumn flavor. It’s sweet, but not overpowering, and the spices add warmth that’s perfect for this time of year.
- Roast to Perfection: Spread the squash cubes out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and creates those crispy, caramelized edges that make this dish so irresistible. Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will prevent the squash from roasting properly.
Garnish and Serve: Once roasted, transfer the squash to a serving dish and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and a subtle earthy note that complements the sweetness of the squash.- Storing and Reheating: Leftovers? No problem! Store any leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply spread the squash out on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also enjoy this dish cold as part of a salad—toss the leftover squash with some arugula, goat cheese, and toasted pumpkin seeds for a light, flavorful lunch the next day.
Notes
Conclusion
Roasted maple glazed butternut squash is the quintessential autumn side dish—easy to prepare, full of seasonal flavors, and perfect for cozy dinners or holiday feasts. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, filling your home with the warm, comforting aromas of fall.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a holiday feast, this dish will add a touch of warmth and comfort to your meal. So embrace the season, gather your ingredients, and let the flavors of autumn shine on your plate. This roasted butternut squash will become a staple in your fall recipe rotation, guaranteed to delight your family and friends alike!
Don’t forget to share your creations with us by tagging #EATS on social media. We can’t wait to see your take on this fall classic. Get after it and let us know how it came out!
