Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when kitchens fill with the aroma of spices and roasting vegetables, and for me, nothing captures the essence of the season quite like butternut squash. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl! What I love most about it is how the natural sweetness of the squash beautifully balances with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of pecans. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for those busy holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this roasted butternut squash with maple syrup and cranberries, it’ll become a staple on your Thanksgiving table, just like it is on mine!
Ingredients List
- 1 medium butternut squash – peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces. This is the star of the show, bringing that sweet, nutty flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – to help achieve that lovely golden-brown roasting and add a bit of richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. Don’t skip this!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – just a hint of spice to balance the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – this warm spice is essential for that cozy, autumn vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – adds depth and warmth, making each bite feel like a fall celebration.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup – for that sweet drizzle at the end, it really elevates the flavors!
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans – these give a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the squash.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries – they add a pop of tartness and a burst of color to the dish.
How to Prepare butternut squash recipes thanksgiving
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your butternut squash gets that perfect roast and caramelization!
- While the oven is heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your peeled and diced butternut squash. Drizzle in the olive oil, then sprinkle the salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the top. Get in there with your hands and mix it all together until the squash is evenly coated. Trust me, this step is key for that robust flavor!
- Next, spread the seasoned butternut squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Give it some space so it can roast nicely—crowding the pan will lead to steaming instead of roasting!
- Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let it roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, I like to give it a good stir to ensure even cooking and browning. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden and the squash is fork-tender!
- Once it’s out of the oven, drizzle the maple syrup over the roasted squash while it’s still warm. This will make it glisten and add that sweet touch.
- Lastly, fold in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries gently. This adds delightful texture and a burst of flavor. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dish ready to roast while you focus on other Thanksgiving dishes.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet butternut squash, warm spices, and the rich drizzle of maple syrup creates an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Healthy Side Dish: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this dish is a guilt-free addition to your holiday table that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving: Its vibrant colors and festive flavors make it a stunning centerpiece on your Thanksgiving spread, impressing your guests!
- Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare the squash in advance and simply roast it just before serving, making it a stress-free option for busy holiday cooking.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices! If you love a bit more warmth, add an extra pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of ginger. Tailor it to your taste, and let your kitchen be your playground!
- Ensure Even Roasting: Give the butternut squash enough room on the baking sheet. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we definitely want that caramelized goodness! Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Check for Doneness: Every oven is a bit different, so start checking around the 25-minute mark. You want the squash to be fork-tender and slightly caramelized. If it needs a little more time, just keep an eye on it!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish warm, straight from the oven! It’s great on its own or as a side to roasted turkey or ham. You can even sprinkle a bit of feta or goat cheese on top for an added savory touch.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re prepping for a big gathering, you can roast the butternut squash a day in advance. Just reheat it gently in the oven before serving, drizzled with maple syrup and mixed with pecans and cranberries for that fresh taste!
Variations
- Nut Swap: If you’re not a fan of pecans or simply want to switch things up, try using walnuts instead! They add a slightly different flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the squash.
- Spice It Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix. It’ll give your dish a surprising depth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavors even more. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the squash before roasting for that aromatic touch.
- Other Veggies: Feel free to mix in other root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Just remember to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they roast evenly!
- Fruit Twist: Swap out cranberries for apple chunks or pears for a different fruity flavor. They’ll caramelize nicely and add a juicy burst in every bite!
- Maple Variations: Experiment with different sweeteners; honey or agave syrup can be used in place of maple syrup for a unique sweetness. Each one gives a different character to the dish!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional information for this delightful butternut squash dish. These values are based on common ingredient brands, so your results might vary a bit:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving table without the guilt! Enjoy every bite knowing you’re nourishing your body, too!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the butternut squash mixture a day before and keep it in the fridge. Just roast it just before serving for the best flavor and texture!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it up!
Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the roasted butternut squash. Just let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for about 2-3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently in the oven.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or agave syrup are great alternatives! Just keep in mind that they may slightly alter the flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?
You can, but fresh cranberries are much more tart. If you decide to use them, consider adding a bit more sweetness to balance the flavors.
What if I don’t have pecans?
No problem! Walnuts or even sliced almonds can work just as well. Feel free to use whatever nuts you have on hand!
How do I know when the butternut squash is done roasting?
You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fork-tender and has a lovely golden-brown color. Don’t rush this step—those caramelized edges are where the magic happens!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying this delicious butternut squash dish even after Thanksgiving! First, let the roasted squash cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture buildup that can make your squash soggy. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and I promise, it’ll still taste great!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple! I recommend warming it up in the oven to maintain that lovely texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the squash on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you want to freshen it up, drizzle a little extra maple syrup and toss in some fresh cranberries or pecans right before serving!
If you happen to have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, you can freeze them! Just let the squash cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy every flavorful bite as if it were fresh from the oven!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to Thanksgiving, this roasted butternut squash dish is a showstopper, but it truly shines when paired with other delicious sides and mains. Here are some of my favorite suggestions to create a well-rounded and festive meal:
- Roast Turkey: Nothing says Thanksgiving like a beautifully roasted turkey. The savory flavors of the turkey complement the sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly!
- Stuffing: A hearty stuffing, whether traditional or with a twist, adds texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy squash.
- Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish brings a crunchy, creamy element to your table, creating a delightful contrast with the soft, sweet squash.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce is a must-have! Its tartness beautifully balances the sweetness of the squash and enhances the overall flavor profile of your Thanksgiving feast.
- Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes. They’re the perfect vehicle for all that delicious gravy and pair well with our sweet and nutty squash.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts add a lovely bitterness that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash, creating a balanced plate.
- Gravy: Drizzle a little gravy on your butternut squash for an extra layer of flavor. It’s the perfect way to tie the meal together!
Don’t forget to set the table with some warm, crusty bread and a refreshing salad to round out your Thanksgiving spread. Trust me, with these pairings, your butternut squash dish will steal the show while fitting right in with the rest of the delicious offerings!
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Butternut Squash Recipes Thanksgiving: 5 Cozy Comforts
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious butternut squash recipe perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Add pecans and cranberries, then toss gently.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: butternut squash recipes thanksgiving
