Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash

Name: Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

I love making Roasted Butternut Squash on cozy Sundays, as its sweet flavor perfectly complements the fall season. The simple combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper lets the natural taste shine through. Just a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates each bite, leaving my kitchen smelling delightful. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, showcasing comfort and love in every forkful. As an added bonus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins for a wholesome family dinner.

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:20:37.009Z

Every time I roast butternut squash, I am amazed by how its flavor transforms in the oven. I tried different seasonings, but a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon really brought out its sweetness. The caramelization adds a depth of flavor that makes it irresistible!

Another tip I discovered is to cut the squash into uniform pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly, giving you the perfect tender texture that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Plus, a dash of freshly ground black pepper at the end brings everything together wonderfully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delectable sweetness enhanced by roasting
Perfectly caramelized edges that add flavor
Versatile side dish that complements any meal

Choosing the Right Butternut Squash

When selecting a butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. Avoid any squashes with soft spots or blemishes, as they can indicate spoilage. Ideally, pick one with a deep beige color, as this suggests it is ripe and packed with sweetness. A medium-sized squash, typically around 2 to 3 pounds, is perfect for this recipe, yielding enough cubes to serve a family without leaving excessive leftovers.

If you're in a pinch for time, pre-cut butternut squash is widely available at grocery stores. This can save you the hassle of peeling and seeding, but make sure to choose pieces that are uniformly sized to ensure even cooking. Just adjust the roasting time slightly, reducing it to about 25-30 minutes, as smaller cubes will caramelize more quickly.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the basic seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper allows the butternut squash's natural sugars to shine, consider experimenting with spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne can introduce a warm complexity, while a sprinkle of smoked paprika would impart a lovely depth. If you prefer sweeter flavors, a tablespoon of maple syrup works as a fantastic substitute for honey, providing a different yet delicious undertone to your roasted squash.

For an even more vibrant dish, try tossing in some diced apples or pears with the squash before roasting. The fruit will caramelize beautifully alongside the squash and add an extra layer of sweetness. Fresh garlic can also be included for a savory kick; simply add a few cloves to the seasoning mix before roasting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover roasted butternut squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply spread it out on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method preserves the squash's texture, ensuring it remains tender and slightly caramelized, unlike microwave reheating, which can turn it mushy.

If you find yourself with more squash than you can eat, consider freezing your roasted cubes. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months and can be tossed directly into soups, stews, or even smoothies without thawing. My freezer is never without some roasted squash for quick meals!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious roasted butternut squash:

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Make sure to prep your ingredients before starting the roast!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your roasted butternut squash:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a perfect roast.

Prepare the squash

Peel, seed, and cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. This helps them roast evenly.

Season the squash

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, honey, and cinnamon. Toss until the squash is well-coated.

Roast the squash

Spread the seasoned squash evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until golden and tender, stirring halfway through.

Serve

Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious roasted butternut squash!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up or toss in some chopped nuts for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted butternut squash makes an excellent side dish for a variety of proteins, particularly roasted chicken, turkey, or any grilled meat. Its natural sweetness and slight caramelization create a delicious contrast that balances rich, savory flavors. Additionally, it can be combined with grains like quinoa or farro for a heartier main dish, making it ideal for vegetarian meals.

For a more vibrant presentation, drizzle the dish with a balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving. The tanginess of feta complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to your meal. If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving this alongside a fresh salad for a full plate that will impress your guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your butternut squash is not browning properly, ensure that you are spreading the cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, preventing that desirable caramelization. Aim for a baking sheet with enough space so that each piece has direct contact with the hot surface. If necessary, use two sheets instead of one.

Another common issue is underseasoning. If you find the end product lacks flavor, remember that the sweetness of the squash can require a bold flavor profile to balance it. Don’t hesitate to taste the squash before roasting and adjust the seasoning accordingly, adding more salt, pepper, or spices based on your preferences.

Scaling the Recipe

This butternut squash recipe is highly scalable depending on your needs. If cooking for a larger group, simply maintain the same proportion of ingredients while increasing the quantity of squash. Keep in mind that you may need to roast in batches if using a standard-sized oven, as overloading the baking sheet can result in uneven cooking.

For smaller portions, halve the ingredients or use just a quarter of a larger squash. This dish reaps the benefits of roasting even in smaller amounts, making it adaptable for any occasion. Smaller pieces will also cook faster, so check for doneness at the 20-minute mark to ensure a perfect roast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen cubed butternut squash can be used. Just thaw and pat dry before roasting.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the squash and store it, then roast it just before serving for optimal flavor.

→ What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?

Roasted butternut squash pairs well with grilled chicken, pork, or as a topping for salads.