Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash

Name: Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making roasted butternut squash on lazy Sunday afternoons. There's something absolutely magical about how the roasting process transforms the squash into a sweet, caramelized side dish. Every bite is a perfect balance of nuttiness and sweetness, especially when seasoned with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s simple and requires minimal effort, yet it brings such warmth and comfort to our Sunday meals. Plus, I love knowing that it’s both delicious and healthy!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:52:15.922Z

When I first tried roasted butternut squash, I was amazed at how its flavor deepened with roasting. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully, creating a slight crisp on the outside while keeping the inside tender. I like to toss the cubes with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, but the addition of a hint of maple syrup takes it to another level. This balance of sweet and savory is the star of any meal!

After perfecting my technique, I discovered that baking it at a high temperature ensures that the squash roasts evenly and develops that lovely, golden color. To make meal prep easier, I often peel and cube it the night before. When it comes time to roast, it's just a matter of tossing and baking for a delightful dish that complements any main course.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The natural sweetness shines through roasting.
It's a fantastic way to get more veggies on your plate.
Versatile as a side or mixed into salads.

      

Key Technique Tips

When roasting butternut squash, achieving that perfect caramelization is key. To do this, make sure your oven is preheated to 425°F (220°C) before you start. This high temperature encourages the sugars in the squash to caramelize beautifully, resulting in that sweet and nutty flavor. A common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet; this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Spread the cubes out in a single layer, ensuring they have space to breathe.

For even cooking, toss the squash halfway through the roasting time. This will allow all sides to get nice and golden brown, enhancing the texture you desire. If you find your squash is getting a little too brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to prevent burning while it continues to cook through.

Ingredient Insights

The butternut squash is the star of this dish, and its flavor can vary depending on its ripeness. For the best results, choose squash that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, firm skin. Avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes. If you have trouble peeling, use a sharp knife to slice off the ends before peeling to get a good grip.

Olive oil not only aids in roasting but also helps the spices adhere to the squash. It's important to coat the squash evenly for the best flavor distribution. While I love the combination of cinnamon and maple syrup, feel free to experiment with other spices like paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile, enhancing the earthiness of the squash.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious roasted butternut squash dish.

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Make sure to adjust seasonings according to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your roasted butternut squash.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting.

Prepare the Squash

Peel the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and then cube it into 1-inch pieces.

Season the Squash

In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and maple syrup if using, until everything is well coated.

Roast in the Oven

Spread the seasoned squash evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and golden brown, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm as a side dish, or mix it into salads or grain bowls.

Enjoy the incredible flavors of your roasted butternut squash!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.

Serving Ideas

Roasted butternut squash makes an excellent side dish with a variety of meals. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork. If you’re looking to incorporate it into a salad, toss the warm squash with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a hearty meal. The warm squash will slightly wilt the greens, adding to the dish's texture and making it comforting.

This dish is also great for grain bowls. Serve it over quinoa or farro, topped with feta cheese, walnuts, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a well-rounded, nutritious meal. Mixing the roasted squash into other dishes enhances their flavor and adds a seasonal twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great things about roasted butternut squash is that it can be made ahead of time. If you're meal prepping, roast a larger batch, and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to restore some of that initial crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the squash soggy and less enjoyable.

For longer storage, roasted butternut squash can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then spread it on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about an hour before transferring to a freezer bag. This will prevent it from clumping together. Use within three months for the best flavor and texture. When ready to use, there’s no need to thaw; you can roast it straight from frozen, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works well. Just ensure to adjust the roasting time as it may cook faster.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?

It pairs well with proteins like chicken or fish, or you can enjoy it in salads or grain bowls.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots or sweet potatoes roast well alongside the butternut squash for a colorful medley.