Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash is a cozy, fall-inspired side dish that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. This simple yet flavorful recipe transforms humble butternut squash into a caramelized, tender delight that complements any meal. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish is a reliable favorite. With minimal prep and a few pantry staples, you’ll have a healthy and delicious vegetable side that your family will love. Let’s dive into this sweet and savory recipe that celebrates the rich, nutty taste of roasted butternut squash.
Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash
This Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is irresistibly delicious. The natural sweetness of butternut squash is enhanced with brown sugar and a drizzle of honey, while rosemary and cinnamon add a subtle earthiness and warmth. Roasting the squash brings out its caramelized edges and velvety texture, making every bite a taste of fall. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, gluten-free, and naturally vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized butternut squash, seeds and skin removed, roughly chopped into 1″ cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 heaping tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the squash: Peel and cube your butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with brown sugar, rosemary, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Toss everything together until each cube is thoroughly coated.
- Roast: Spread the seasoned squash out in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through for even caramelization.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven, season with more salt and pepper if desired, and enjoy warm.
Helpful Tips
- Use pre-cut squash to save time on prep.
- Spread the cubes in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- For crispier edges, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
- Toss squash halfway through roasting to prevent burning and encourage even browning.
- Choose a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a matte skin—these tend to be more flavorful.
Substitutions And Variations
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can replace rosemary for a flavor twist.
- Pumpkin pie spice can be used instead of cinnamon for a spiced autumnal flair.
- Make it savory by omitting the brown sugar and honey, and using garlic powder and paprika instead.
Storage Instructions
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the squash in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or warm it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash (approximately 1 cup) contains:
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roast chicken or turkey for a comforting meal.
- Add to grain bowls with quinoa, chickpeas, and spinach for a healthy lunch.
- Pair with a green salad and crusty bread for a light vegetarian dinner.
- Use leftovers in wraps, salads, or even blended into a fall-inspired soup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the squash up to 2 days ahead and reheat it in the oven before serving.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, just omit the honey or use maple syrup instead for a fully vegan version.
How do I know when the squash is done roasting?
The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork and lightly caramelized on the edges.
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, but for best results, thaw and pat dry before seasoning and roasting to avoid sogginess.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers are great in salads, grain bowls, or mashed and added to soups and stews for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Thank you for stopping by to try this delicious Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash recipe! It’s truly one of my favorite seasonal sides—sweet, savory, and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a festive gathering or adding a touch of warmth to your weekly meals, this dish always delivers. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of our food-loving community!
Print
Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
Description
Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut Squash is a cozy, sweet-and-savory side dish made with simple ingredients and baked to caramelized perfection.
Ingredients
1 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 heaping tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp dried rosemary
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tbsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the squash: Peel and cube your butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with brown sugar, rosemary, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Toss everything together until each cube is thoroughly coated.
- Roast: Spread the seasoned squash out in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through for even caramelization.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven, season with more salt and pepper if desired, and enjoy warm.
Notes
Use pre-cut squash to save prep time.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure crisp edges.
Substitute maple syrup for honey if preferred.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
