Warm up your home and heart with Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans. This cozy dish offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making it an ideal side for family dinners or a comforting weeknight treat. If you’re looking to impress your loved ones with minimal effort, this delightful recipe is just what you need!
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: You can whip it up in no time, even on busy nights.
- Family Favorite: Everyone loves the sweet, nutty flavors that remind us of home.
- Budget-Friendly: Butternut squash and pecans won’t break the bank.
- Nostalgic Comfort: This dish brings back cozy memories of family gatherings and fall evenings.
What truly makes this recipe special is the way the maple syrup carmelizes on the squash, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. You’ll find comfort in every bite, making this dish perfect for creating warm family memories.
Ingredients
For the base:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Note: Unsalted butter can be added for richness, but is not necessary.
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the squash roast evenly and develop a lovely caramelized flavor.
- Prepare the squash: In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. Make sure every piece is glistening!
- Roast the squash: Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through. This step ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
- Add maple syrup and pecans: Once the squash is fork-tender, drizzle the maple syrup over it and sprinkle the chopped pecans on top. If you like, add cinnamon for a warm touch.
- Finish roasting: Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. The syrup will bubble and the pecans will toast, filling the kitchen with heavenly smells.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
How to Serve Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans
- Presentation: Serve it in a shallow bowl, letting the glossy maple syrup shine through.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle a few extra pecans on top for added crunch.
- Pairings: This dish goes great alongside roasted chicken or as part of a vegetarian feast.
How to Store Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips to Make Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet; this lets the squash get nice and crispy.
- For a deeper flavor, roast the squash until it’s caramelized slightly; it’ll add extra sweetness.
- Experiment with spices! Nutmeg or ginger can add a lovely warmth.
- If you’re nut-free, you can skip the pecans for a similar taste.
Variation
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
- Vegan: Make it vegan by ensuring the maple syrup you use is certified vegan.
FAQs
What can I use instead of butternut squash?
You can substitute with sweet potatoes or carrots for a similar texture and flavor.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Stored properly in an airtight container, roasted butternut squash can last in the fridge for about 3 days.
Can I skip the maple syrup?
You can, but the maple syrup adds a delicious sweetness that enhances the dish. If you prefer less sweetness, you can use a smaller amount.
Conclusion
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans is not just a dish; it’s an experience. With its warm flavors and cozy aromas, it’s perfect for bringing loved ones together. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment and a star rating below, and don’t forget to share this recipe on Pinterest or Facebook. What twist did you try? Let us know below!
Print
Roasted Butternut Squash with Maple and Pecans
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy dish offering a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, ideal for family dinners or comforting weeknight treats.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Once fork-tender, drizzle maple syrup over the squash and sprinkle chopped pecans on top. If desired, add cinnamon.
- Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until syrup bubbles and pecans toast.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
For richer flavor, consider adding unsalted butter, though it is not necessary. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg