Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash

Name: Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Highlighted under: Natural Meals

I look forward to Sundays, especially when I can fill my kitchen with the warm, sweet aroma of roasted butternut squash. This recipe transforms a simple squash into a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully in the oven, creating a soft and tender texture. With a sprinkle of spices, this dish becomes a comforting favorite that my family loves, and it always feels like a special treat on our dinner table.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:54:40.580Z

Roasting butternut squash is one of my favorite ways to bring out its natural sweetness. I discovered that if I cut it into even cubes and drizzle a bit of olive oil over it, the texture turns silky and smooth when cooked. Adding a touch of salt and pepper enhances the flavor without overshadowing the squash's innate taste.

Over the years, I've experimented with various spices, but a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg never fails to impress. The sweetness from the squash combined with these warm spices creates an unforgettable dish that shines brightly on our Sunday table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The sweet, caramelized edges bring a satisfying depth of flavor.
Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up as a comforting side dish.
Versatile enough to pair with both savory and sweet meals.

The Role of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is the star ingredient in this dish, offering a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture when roasted. Its natural sweetness enhances the overall taste, making it a favorite among those who enjoy comfort food. Additionally, its vibrant orange hue means it's packed with vitamins A and C, boosting the nutritional profile of any meal. Choosing a squash that's heavy for its size ensures you're getting maximum flavor and a good yield of tender cubes.

When prepping butternut squash, it's essential to ensure uniformity in your cubes. This not only promotes even cooking but also helps achieve that desirable caramelization across the pieces. Try to aim for approximately 1-inch cubes; this size allows for thorough cooking without the risk of burning. If you find peeling the squash difficult, you can microwave it for a few minutes to soften the skin, making it easier to manage.

Achieving Perfectly Roasted Squash

Roasting at the right temperature is key to achieving that delicious, caramelized edge while ensuring the squash maintains its structural integrity. Baking at 400°F (200°C) strikes a perfect balance, allowing a thorough cook without losing moisture. It’s beneficial to flip the squash halfway through the roasting time, as this encourages even browning and caramelization on all sides, resulting in that irresistible glaze.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider experimenting with additional spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a lovely kick, or you could swap the cinnamon for smoked paprika for a savory twist. Remember, the key is to taste your squash before serving; if you feel it needs a little more seasoning, don’t hesitate to add a dash more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious roasted butternut squash.

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start roasting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your roasted butternut squash masterpiece.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a properly heated environment for roasting.

Prepare the Squash

Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then cut into even cubes.

Season the Squash

In a large bowl, combine the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until evenly coated.

Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delightful roasted side dish!

Once you’ve crafted this dish, feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices!

Pro Tips

For a touch of sweetness, you can also add a drizzle of maple syrup before roasting. It pairs perfectly with the spices.

Storage and Reheating

Once cooled, you can store any leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheating is best done in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, providing that fresh-roasted flavor again. This method avoids the mushiness that can occur when microwaving, which tends to steam the squash instead of crisping it up.

If you want to freeze your roasted squash for later use, ensure it's completely cooled first. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. This method prevents the pieces from sticking together, allowing you to take out just what you need for soups, salads, or grain bowls.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted butternut squash pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats, such as chicken or pork, where the sweetness of the squash balances the savory flavors. It also works well in salads; mix it with arugula, feta cheese, and nuts for a hearty, satisfying meal.

For a vegetarian option, toss the roasted squash with cooked quinoa and your favorite greens, then drizzle with a lemon-tahini dressing. The nutty flavor of the quinoa complements the squash, adding another layer of texture and nutrition to your meal. Feel free to get creative—this dish’s flavors can seamlessly blend into many culinary styles!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, you can, but reduce the roasting time as frozen cubes may cook faster.

→ What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?

It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grains, or even as a filling in salads.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts are great additions for a roasted vegetable medley.