Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when we gather around the table, surrounded by friends and family, and indulge in all the delicious flavors of the season. And let me tell you, one ingredient that never fails to impress is butternut squash. With its sweet, nutty flavor and vibrant orange color, it not only adds a beautiful touch to your holiday spread but also packs a punch of nutritional goodness. I absolutely love using butternut squash in my Thanksgiving dishes, and I can’t wait to share my favorite Thanksgiving butternut squash recipe with you!
This roasted butternut squash dish is simple yet so incredibly satisfying. It’s rich in vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy choice that everyone will love. The combination of warm spices and a drizzle of maple syrup elevates the natural sweetness of the squash, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple on your Thanksgiving table!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious roasted butternut squash dish. I promise, these ingredients come together beautifully!
- 1 medium butternut squash – Make sure to peel and cube it into bite-sized pieces. This helps the squash roast evenly and cook through perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This is what gives the squash that glorious, golden-brown finish. Plus, it adds a bit of richness!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Don’t skip the salt! It enhances all the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just a hint of pepper adds a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – This is where the warm, cozy holiday flavors come in! Cinnamon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – Trust me, this drizzle is the secret to taking your squash to a whole new level of deliciousness!
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped – Feel free to switch these out for pecans if you prefer! They add a wonderful crunch and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped – Fresh herbs make such a difference. Thyme adds a fragrant touch that complements the sweetness beautifully.
And there you have it! Simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s not just tasty, but also perfect for your Thanksgiving feast. You’ll want to gather them all before we dive into the preparation!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Butternut Squash Recipes
Now, let’s get into the fun part—preparing this scrumptious roasted butternut squash! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful side dish that everyone will rave about.
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that the squash roasts evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown color. Trust me, you don’t want to rush this step!
Toss the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together your cubed butternut squash with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Use your hands or a spatula to make sure every piece is well-coated. This mixture is where the magic starts, combining flavors that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Spread and Roast
Next, spread the seasoned squash onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them; giving them space allows for that gorgeous roasting! Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the squash is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Oh, and don’t forget to flip them halfway through for even cooking!
Add Maple and Nuts
Once your squash is perfectly roasted, it’s time for the grand finale! Drizzle the maple syrup over the squash and sprinkle with the chopped walnuts and fresh thyme. Give it a little toss to combine everything, then return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This step really brings out the flavors, and the walnuts will toast up beautifully!
Serving Suggestions
When your butternut squash is all done, serve it warm! It pairs wonderfully with things like roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, or even alongside a hearty grain salad. You could also whip up some creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to round out your Thanksgiving feast. Trust me, this dish is going to be a star on your table!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this roasted butternut squash dish! Here are some of my top tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and turns out absolutely delicious.
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, even skin. Avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes.
- Uniform Cubes: Try to cut the squash into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly, so you won’t have some pieces mushy while others are still crunchy.
- Don’t Skip the Flip: Remember to flip the squash halfway through roasting! This promotes even browning and delicious caramelization on all sides. Nobody wants soggy squash!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to play around with the spices! If you love a bit more sweetness, add extra maple syrup, or if you’re a spice lover, toss in a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time! Roast the squash earlier in the day, then just reheat it before serving. It’ll save you time on Thanksgiving!
- Experiment with Nuts: If you’re not a walnut fan, pecans or even toasted almonds work beautifully. Each nut brings its unique flavor and crunch to the dish.
- Garnish to Impress: Fresh herbs make a big difference! If you have extra thyme, sprinkle a bit more on just before serving for that lovely visual pop and fresh flavor.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this Thanksgiving butternut squash recipe. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in this delicious roasted butternut squash dish! It’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate, especially during the holiday season. Just a quick note: the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This dish is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a wholesome addition to your Thanksgiving table! With its healthy fats, fiber, and a good dose of vitamins, it’s the perfect way to indulge without the guilt. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the butternut squash earlier in the day and simply reheat it before serving. It saves you time on Thanksgiving and allows the flavors to meld even more!
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
No worries at all! If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme instead. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use about a third of the amount (around 1 teaspoon) for a similar flavor.
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting. Frozen squash may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it in the oven!
What other nuts can I use?
Feel free to swap out walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds! Each nut adds its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I know when the squash is done roasting?
The squash is ready when it’s tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. You’ll also see some lovely caramelization on the edges, which is a good sign of flavor development!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet butternut squash, warm spices, and a touch of maple syrup creates a mouthwatering dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is a guilt-free way to indulge during the holiday season.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for any home cook, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro!
- Perfect for Thanksgiving: This dish adds vibrant color and festive flavors to your holiday table, making it a delightful side that complements any main course.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
- Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the recipe with different nuts or spices to suit your taste or dietary preferences!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious roasted butternut squash dish, and now you’ve got some leftovers. No worries! It stores beautifully, and I’m here to tell you how to keep it just as tasty for your next meal.
To store, let the squash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to keep out any unwanted moisture or odors!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat the squash is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the squash on a baking sheet, and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Warm it up for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s heated through. This method helps retain that lovely roasted flavor and texture!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just place the squash in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking. Just a heads up—microwaving can make it a bit softer, but it’s a quick fix if you need it!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor this scrumptious Thanksgiving butternut squash dish even after the holiday feast. Enjoy every last bite!
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Thanksgiving Butternut Squash Recipes: 5 Irresistible Flavors
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and healthy Thanksgiving dish featuring roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with walnuts and thyme.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your preference.
- Use pecans instead of walnuts if desired.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- 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: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving butternut squash recipes
