Simple & Perfectly Caramelized Roasted Butternut Squash
This recipe shows you how to roast butternut squash to achieve crispy, golden edges and a soft, creamy interior. It is a simple, sweet and savory side dish perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Oven Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Peel the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg over the squash cubes. Toss everything together until the squash is evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan; use two sheets if necessary to promote caramelization.
- Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through, until the edges are caramelized and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder along with the other seasonings.
- If you prefer a less sweet side dish, reduce the maple syrup to 1 tablespoon and increase the salt slightly.
- To ensure crispy edges, make sure the squash pieces are in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup cooked
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 0