If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall, the Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is absolutely a must-try. This dish combines tender, caramelized cubes of butternut squash with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, delivering an irresistible balance of sweet and savory that’s simple to prepare yet profoundly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a side for holiday celebrations, this recipe brings vibrant color and comforting aroma to your table in a way few dishes can.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beautiful thing about this Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is how a handful of simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the rich earthiness of the olive oil to the sweet warmth of brown sugar and spices.
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes: The star ingredient, providing sweetness and a creamy texture when roasted.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky richness that helps caramelize the squash beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Enhances natural sweetness and encourages that lovely golden glaze.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warm, comforting spice that defines the dish’s character.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the squash’s natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle bite that livens up every mouthful.
How to Make Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This initial step ensures your squash roasts evenly and none of those precious caramelized edges stick to the pan.
Step 2: Toss the Butternut Squash with the Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until every single cube is coated in the perfectly balanced seasoning mix. This step guarantees maximum flavor infusion.
Step 3: Arrange the Squash on the Baking Sheet
Spread the coated butternut squash cubes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding them because this helps the cubes roast properly and develop that desirable caramelized edge instead of steaming.
Step 4: Roast and Flip for Even Cooking
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the squash for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through the roasting time, flip the cubes carefully so that all sides get that lovely golden caramelization. The squash should be fork-tender and glowing with a slightly crisp exterior.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once your Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is out of the oven, serve it warm as a delightful side dish that complements everything from roasted meats to holiday spreads beautifully.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped pecans adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the squash. For those who adore a touch of extra indulgence, a light drizzle of maple syrup after roasting brings an extra layer of seasonal charm.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe shines alongside main courses like roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a hearty grain bowl. Its subtly sweet and warmly spiced character makes it a perfect partner to savory, richly flavored dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive flair, consider plating the roasted squash atop a bed of fluffy quinoa or wild rice adorned with fresh herbs. Alternatively, toss the cubes into a kale salad with toasted seeds and a tangy vinaigrette for a vibrant contrast that makes every bite exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making the squash perfect for quick weekday meals or cozy lunches.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Lay the roasted butternut squash cubes flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months and thawed in the fridge prior to reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the squash in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts to avoid sogginess. A quick toss back into a hot skillet with a bit of oil can also refresh that crispy edge wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, you can also try delicata or kabocha squash with this recipe. Just adjust roasting time based on the squash’s density.
Is this Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan and gluten-free! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect side dish for those following vegan or gluten-free diets.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before a party?
Yes, you can roast the squash earlier in the day and gently reheat it just before serving. It holds its flavor and texture really well when warmed carefully.
What can I add to make this dish more savory?
Consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to balance the sweetness with a little kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme also complement the squash’s flavor beautifully.
How do I know when the squash is perfectly roasted?
Look for tender cubes that easily break with a fork and are caramelized with golden edges. The aroma will be rich and slightly sweet-spiced, signaling that it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is truly a heartwarming dish that elevates any meal with its simplicity and rich flavors. Whether you’re new to roasting squash or a seasoned pro, I promise this recipe will become one of your favorites to make again and again. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and let those cozy cinnamon scents fill your kitchen – you won’t regret it!
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Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan,Gluten Free
Description
This Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash recipe offers a warm and cozy side dish perfect for fall and holiday meals. Cubes of butternut squash are tossed in olive oil, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then roasted until tender and caramelized, creating a deliciously sweet and fragrant vegetable side that pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
- Toss Squash with Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the squash pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned butternut squash cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow even roasting and caramelization.
- Roast Squash: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the cubes once halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
- Check Doneness and Serve: The squash is done when it is tender and has caramelized edges. Remove from the oven and serve warm as a flavorful side dish to complement roasted meats or holiday meals.
Notes
- For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or drizzle maple syrup over the roasted squash before serving.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or as part of a festive holiday spread.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or adding a touch of honey if preferred.
