Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash

Autumn in our home is synonymous with the warm, inviting aroma of roasted vegetables wafting from the kitchen. And amongst all the seasonal delights, there’s one dish that consistently earns rave reviews and empty plates: Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash. Honestly, this isn’t just a side dish; it’s a flavor experience. The natural sweetness of butternut squash is amplified by the rich maple syrup, while the crunchy pecans add a delightful textural contrast. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from vegetables, can’t get enough of this. It’s become a staple at our Thanksgiving table, a comforting addition to weeknight dinners, and even a welcome guest at potlucks. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious, one that captures the essence of fall in every bite, then look no further. This Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash is about to become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Butternut Squash: 2 medium-sized butternut squash (about 3-4 pounds total), peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces. Choose squash that feels heavy for its size, indicating it’s ripe and flavorful. The sweetness of butternut squash is the star of the show, and roasting intensifies its natural sugars.
• Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, preferably Grade A Dark or Amber for a richer flavor. Real maple syrup is key here; avoid pancake syrup, which lacks the depth and complexity of genuine maple. The maple syrup not only sweetens but also caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a luscious glaze.
• Pecans: 1 cup pecan halves or pieces, roughly chopped. Pecans provide a wonderful nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that complements the soft squash. Toasting them beforehand enhances their flavor even further, adding depth to the dish.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil helps the squash roast evenly and adds a subtle fruity note. It also aids in browning and caramelization, contributing to the overall flavor and texture.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cinnamon brings warmth and autumnal spice to the dish, perfectly complementing the maple and squash. Its aromatic notes enhance the overall cozy feel of the recipe.
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with both squash and maple. It’s a classic fall spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste. Salt enhances the sweetness of the squash and balances the flavors. Kosher salt is preferred for its clean taste and ease of use.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste. Black pepper adds a subtle savory note and a touch of spice that complements the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. Freshly ground pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Roasted Butternut Squash

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for roasting vegetables, ensuring they become tender and caramelized without becoming mushy. While the oven is preheating, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil instead.
2. Prepare the Butternut Squash: If you haven’t already, start by peeling, seeding, and cubing your butternut squash. To peel a butternut squash easily, you can microwave it whole for 2-3 minutes to slightly soften the skin. Then, use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon. Cut each half into 1-inch cubes. Aim for relatively uniform cube sizes to ensure even cooking.
3. Combine Squash and Olive Oil: In a large bowl, place the cubed butternut squash. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Using your hands or a spatula, toss the squash to ensure each piece is evenly coated with oil. This step is crucial for roasting; the oil prevents the squash from drying out and helps it to brown and caramelize beautifully.
4. Add Spices and Seasoning: To the bowl with the oiled squash, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together again, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed and coat all the squash pieces. Smell the aromatic spices as you mix – it’s a delightful preview of the flavors to come.
5. Arrange Squash on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned butternut squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches. Overcrowding can steam the squash instead of roasting it, preventing proper browning and caramelization. Ensure there is space between the cubes for heat to circulate.
6. Roast the Butternut Squash: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip the squash cubes using a spatula. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and nicely browned. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on the size of your squash cubes and your oven. To check for doneness, pierce a cube with a fork; it should be easily pierced and tender throughout.
7. Prepare the Maple Pecan Glaze: While the squash is roasting, you can prepare the maple pecan glaze. In a separate small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup and 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans. If you want to enhance the pecan flavor, you can lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant before chopping and adding them to the maple syrup. Be careful not to burn them.
8. Add Maple Pecan Glaze and Finish Roasting: Once the squash is fork-tender and browned, remove the baking sheet from the oven again. Drizzle the maple pecan mixture evenly over the roasted butternut squash. Gently toss the squash to coat it with the maple pecan glaze. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for a final 5-7 minutes. This final roasting period allows the maple syrup to caramelize further and the pecans to toast slightly, infusing the squash with a sweet and nutty glaze. Keep a close eye on it during this final stage to prevent the pecans from burning.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. The Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash is now ready to serve. You can serve it immediately while it’s hot and the pecans are still crunchy. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a fresh herb like thyme or rosemary for an extra touch of elegance, if desired. The aroma and taste of this dish are truly irresistible!

Nutritional Goodness: Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. The following is an estimate per serving, assuming 6 servings from the recipe.)

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings. This recipe is designed to serve around 6 people as a side dish. Serving sizes can be adjusted based on individual needs and preferences.
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories. This is an estimated range, and the exact calorie count can depend on the amount of maple syrup and pecans used, as well as the size of the butternut squash. This dish is a relatively healthy and satisfying side option.
• Fiber (Approximately 5-7 grams per serving): Butternut squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, aiding in weight management. Including fiber-rich foods like butternut squash in your diet is beneficial for overall well-being.
• Vitamin A (High in Vitamin A): Butternut squash is packed with Vitamin A, primarily in the form of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, cell growth, and healthy skin. A single serving of this dish provides a significant portion of your daily Vitamin A needs.
• Potassium (Good source of Potassium): Butternut squash also provides a good amount of potassium, an essential electrolyte. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood pressure, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Adequate potassium intake is important for overall cardiovascular health.

Prep Time: Get Ready in Minutes

The active preparation time for this Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is approximately 20-25 minutes. This includes peeling, seeding, and cubing the butternut squash, chopping pecans, and mixing the ingredients. The total time from start to finish, including roasting time, is about 45-50 minutes. This makes it a relatively quick and easy side dish to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a flavorful and healthy addition to your meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The majority of the time is hands-off roasting time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the oven does its magic.

Serving Suggestions: Ways to Enjoy Your Roasted Butternut Squash

This versatile Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash is delicious on its own as a side dish, but it can also be incorporated into various meals and culinary creations. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Classic Side Dish: Serve it as a vibrant and flavorful side dish alongside roasted chicken, turkey, pork tenderloin, or grilled fish. It complements a wide range of main courses, adding a touch of sweetness and nutty crunch.
• Thanksgiving or Holiday Table Staple: This dish is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday feast. Its autumnal flavors and vibrant colors make it a festive and crowd-pleasing side that complements traditional holiday meals beautifully.
• Warm Salad Base: Toss the roasted butternut squash with mixed greens, baby spinach, or kale to create a warm and hearty salad. Add crumbled goat cheese or feta, dried cranberries, and a balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor and texture.
• Grain Bowl Component: Incorporate roasted butternut squash into grain bowls with quinoa, brown rice, or farro. Combine it with other roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a tahini dressing for a complete and nutritious meal.
• Pasta Sauce Enhancement: Puree leftover roasted butternut squash to create a creamy and flavorful pasta sauce. Toss with your favorite pasta, add some sautéed spinach or kale, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a comforting vegetarian dish.
• Pizza or Flatbread Topping: Use roasted butternut squash as a topping for homemade pizzas or flatbreads. Combine it with caramelized onions, ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh sage for a gourmet and autumnal pizza.
• Soup Thickener and Flavor Booster: Add roasted butternut squash to your favorite vegetable soups or stews to enhance their flavor and add a creamy texture. It blends seamlessly into soups and provides a boost of nutrients and sweetness.
• Tacos or Wraps Filling: Dice the roasted butternut squash into smaller pieces and use it as a unique and flavorful filling for vegetarian tacos or wraps. Combine it with black beans, corn salsa, and a spicy chipotle sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash

To ensure your Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Choose the Right Butternut Squash: Select butternut squash that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a smooth, even tan color without blemishes or soft spots. A heavy squash indicates it’s dense and flavorful, while a smooth skin suggests it’s properly ripe. Avoid squash with green spots or bruises.
2. Cut Squash into Evenly Sized Cubes: Uniformly sized cubes are crucial for even cooking. Aim for approximately 1-inch cubes. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate and become tender at the same time, preventing some pieces from being overcooked while others are still undercooked.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread the butternut squash in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between the cubes. Overcrowding can cause the squash to steam instead of roast, resulting in mushy and less caramelized squash. If needed, use two baking sheets or roast in batches.
4. Adjust Roasting Time and Temperature if Necessary: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the squash while it’s roasting. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly to 375°F (190°C). Conversely, if it’s not browning enough, you can increase the temperature slightly or roast for a bit longer. The key is to roast until fork-tender and nicely caramelized.
5. Toast Pecans for Enhanced Flavor: Toasting pecans before adding them to the maple syrup glaze significantly enhances their nutty flavor and aroma. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and lightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
6. Use Quality Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup, preferably Grade A Dark or Amber, for the best flavor and depth. Real maple syrup provides a complex sweetness that pancake syrup cannot replicate. The quality of the maple syrup directly impacts the overall taste of the glaze.
7. Experiment with Spice Variations: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic fall spices, feel free to experiment with other warm spices like ginger, cloves, or cardamom. A pinch of ground ginger or cloves can add an extra layer of warmth and complexity to the dish. A dash of smoked paprika can also provide a unique smoky note.
8. Storage and Reheating: Leftover Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals. Reheating in the oven will help retain the texture and crispness of the pecans better than microwaving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash

Q1: Can I use pre-cut butternut squash to save time?

A: Yes, absolutely! Using pre-cut butternut squash is a great time-saver, especially on busy weeknights. You can find pre-cut squash in most grocery stores in the produce section. Just make sure to check the expiration date and choose squash that looks fresh and firm. Using pre-cut squash will significantly reduce your prep time, making this recipe even quicker and easier.

Q2: Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute pecans with other nuts based on your preference or what you have on hand. Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts would all work well in this recipe. Each nut will bring a slightly different flavor profile, but they will all provide a similar nutty crunch and complement the maple and squash beautifully. Walnuts offer a slightly more earthy flavor, while almonds provide a milder and slightly sweeter taste.

Q3: Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

A: While maple syrup is integral to the flavor profile of this recipe, you can experiment with other natural sweeteners if needed. Honey or agave nectar could be used as substitutes. Honey will impart a slightly different floral note, while agave is milder and sweeter than maple syrup. Keep in mind that these substitutions will alter the overall flavor slightly, but they can still create a delicious roasted butternut squash dish.

Q4: How do I know when the butternut squash is perfectly roasted?

A: The best way to check if butternut squash is perfectly roasted is to pierce a cube with a fork. It should be easily pierced and tender throughout, with no resistance. The edges of the squash should also be nicely browned and slightly caramelized. If the fork meets resistance, continue roasting for a few more minutes and check again. Avoid over-roasting, as the squash can become mushy.

Q5: Can I prepare this roasted butternut squash ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the roasted butternut squash ahead of time. Roast the squash as instructed and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add the maple pecan glaze just before reheating or after it’s warmed through to maintain the pecan crunch.

Q6: Is this Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash recipe vegan and gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free! Butternut squash, maple syrup, pecans, olive oil, and spices are all plant-based and gluten-free ingredients. This makes it an excellent choice for those following vegan or gluten-free diets, as well as anyone looking for a healthy and inclusive side dish option.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables to roast along with the butternut squash?

A: Absolutely! Roasting other vegetables alongside butternut squash is a great way to create a more diverse and flavorful side dish. Consider adding Brussels sprouts, red onions, sweet potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers. Choose vegetables that have similar roasting times to butternut squash and toss them with olive oil and spices before roasting together. This is a fantastic way to customize the dish and use up seasonal vegetables.

Q8: How long does leftover roasted butternut squash last in the refrigerator?

A: Leftover Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash will last for approximately 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Ensure it has cooled completely before refrigerating. When reheating, consume it within this timeframe for the best quality and food safety. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off odor or change in texture, discard it for safety reasons.

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