How to Roast Butternut Squash
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How to Roast Butternut Squash
Learning How to Roast Butternut Squash is quick and easy. This versatile dish is packed with flavorful herbs and roasted to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil. Delicious served as a side or tossed into your favorite fall recipes, Butternut Squash is a fall must-have and an easy substitute for pumpkin. It's the ultimate oven-baked butternut squash recipe! Make Ahead + Air-fryer option.
Why Learn How to Roast Butternut Squash?
With squash season well and truly here I thought I would kick it off with a back-to-the-basics post. Sometimes I completely forget that it’s the how-to recipes that are most needed. Besides, with so many butternut squash recipes already on Orchids + Sweet Tea I figured it was about time I show y'all you How to Roast Butternut Squash, too!
When fall rolls around, butternut squash becomes the undisputed king of my kitchen. It stars in cherished classics like my soul-soothing Easy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, adds a touch of deliciousness to Vegan Pumpkin Curry Butternut Squash, and brings a delightful twist to my families favorite BBQ Chicken Pizza with Butternut Squash!
Learning how to roast butternut squash is like uncovering the key to a treasure trove of mouthwatering recipes. It's surprisingly easy, and the flavors you'll get are well worth your time. Plus, it's a game-changer for effortless seasonal cooking that'll please the whole gang. Similar in taste and texture to pumpkins, butternut squash is more manageable to roast + puree, thanks to its smaller size. In a pinch, I've even swapped one for the other when I don't have both on hand and don't want to make a last-minute grocery run. Win-win. Haha
Jump to:
- Why Learn How to Roast Butternut Squash?
- What You Need to Roast Butternut Squash
- Roasted Butternut Squash Ingredients
- How To Roast Butternut Squash
- Why I LOVE Butternut Squash SO MUCH
- Seasoning Ideas + Sauces
- How To Use Roasted Butternut Squash
- How To Choose THE PERFECT Butternut Squash
- How to Freeze + Reheat Roasted Butternut Squash
- Is Butternut Squash a Healthy Carb?
- Roasted Butternut Squash Q + A's
- More Back-To-The-Basics Recipes You Will LOVE!
- MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
- How to Roast Butternut Squash
What You Need to Roast Butternut Squash
Butternut squash can be roasted in different ways: halved, in slices, or cubed. The method you choose depends on your recipe. In this particular one, we'll be cubing the squash.
To roast butternut squash, you'll need an oven, one or two baking sheets, or a baking dish, and a large sharp knife + high-quality vegetable peeler to remove the tough skin.
Roasted Butternut Squash Ingredients
Before you start, remember that you'll only need the butternut squash itself, olive oil(I like using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and depth), and your choice of herbs and spices. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. The spices I use + love are:
- Sea salt + Black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried parsley
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Dried thyme
- Red pepper flakes
- Ground cinnamon
- Chili powder
How To Roast Butternut Squash
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, with just 4 main steps: preparation + cutting, followed by seasoning + baking.
PREP + CUT THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH:
- Using a vegetable peeler, peel the skin and white layer beneath the skin of the squash. On a cutting board, carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise with a large knife, scooping out the seeds and pulp using a spoon and discarding them.
- Then with each half, cut the butternut squash into 1-inch medium thick cubes until all butternut squash is used. Add everything to a large bowl.
SEASON + BAKE:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In the bowl with the cubed butternut squash, add the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, parsley, oregano, basil, garlic powder, thyme, chili powder, red pepper flakes, and cinnamon, tossing everything together until it's fully coated.
- Transfer the butternut squash to the baking sheet and arrange in a single layer. Bake until the butternut squash is golden-brown and knife tender, about 30-35 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool.
SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS BUTTERNUT SQUASH!
Here, I’ve curated a list of baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods, especially with this Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe. Everything from my fave sheet pans, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
Why I LOVE Butternut Squash SO MUCH
- Sweet + nutty flavor
- Versatile in SO MANY recipes
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Perfect in both savory + sweet dishes
- A fall & winter staple that great for sides or mains
- Completely comforting + hearty
- Adds pop of color on the plate
- And of course, it's simply healthy + delicious.
Seasoning Ideas + Sauces
Playing with seasonings and spices can take your butternut squash to a whole new level of deliciousness. And, who can resist a tasty dip? Here are some of my favorite seasonings and dipping sauces:
- Homemade Jerk Dry Rub Seasoning
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning
- Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Homemade Pesto Sauce
- Creamy Chipotle Dressing
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Dressing
How To Use Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash is incredibly versatile and can be transformed by your choice of seasonings and spices. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:
Roasted butternut squash is a versatile and delectable ingredient that can enhance a variety of dishes. Its sweet, nutty flavor and tender texture make it a delightful addition to your culinary creations. Here's how to make the most of roasted butternut squash:
As a Side Dish:
Roasted butternut squash makes an excellent side dish + it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats--hello Jerk Whole Roast Chicken , poultry, or as a side for your holiday feasts!
In Soups:
Mash or blend the roasted squash to create a creamy, velvety base for soups. It adds depth of flavor and a luscious texture to classic butternut squash soup or other autumn-inspired soups like this cozy Slow Cooker Quinoa Veggie Soup
Salads + Bowls:
Toss roasted butternut squash cubes into salads or grain bowls for added sweetness, color, and nutrition. It's a great way to elevate your salad game. Try it in this Savory Chickpea Quinoa Buddha Bowl or my personal favorite the Best Buffalo Chickpea Kale Salad
Pasta + Pizza + Tacos :
Mix roasted butternut squash with pasta for a satisfying meal, this Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells with Quinoa + Kale is the ultimate weeknight dinner. It adds a natural creaminess and sweetness to the dish. OR add atop of pizza or tacos for some fall infused deliciousness.
How To Choose THE PERFECT Butternut Squash
Y'all after MANY years of cooking with butternut squash, I've honed the art of selecting the best ones. Here are 4 tips to help you choose the perfect butternut squash:
Skin quality-- Look for a squash with a smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any with cuts, bruises, or soft spots, as these can be indicators of spoilage or diminished flavor.
Color consistency--Opt for a butternut squash with a consistent, deep beige or tan color on its skin. While minor variations are normal, patches of green or excessive shine may suggest under-ripeness.
Heaviness matters: A heavy squash relative to its size indicates a higher flesh-to-seed ratio and ripeness. It's a good sign of a well-matured squash.
Stem + top inspection: Ensure the stem is intact and firmly attached. The top of the squash, opposite the stem, should be free from mold, decay, or any damage.
How to Freeze + Reheat Roasted Butternut Squash
Freezing roasted butternut squash is EASY and perfect for meal prepping.
Freeze it cooked
So, after you've let your diced, cooked squash cool to room temperature, spread them out on a baking sheet for freezing. Once they're good and frozen, pop them in a freezer-safe container.
NOTE: When you decide to thaw that cooked, frozen squash, it'll come out with a softer texture, which is absolutely perfect for creamy, soul-warming soups or whipping up a delightful mash that showcases its natural sweetness and flavor. It's like having a touch of cozy comfort at your fingertips!
Reheating Methods
Depending on your recipe and how you prefer to reheat it, there are several methods to bring your roasted squash back to life. You can use a stovetop pan, pop it in the oven, give it a crisp in the air fryer, or, for a quicker option, use the microwave, bearing in mind that it might become a tad softer in texture.
Is Butternut Squash a Healthy Carb?
You bet! It's bursting with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, and it's got fiber for digestive wellness. So, when you're in the mood for some guilt-free, feel-good carbs, butternut squash is your delicious go-to option. PLUS it won't leave you with a post-meal energy slump, and your body will appreciate the nutritious boost!
Roasted Butternut Squash Q + A's
Leftovers of oven baked butternut squash can be stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated when ready to serve. To re-heat, add roasted butternut squash to the oven on a baking sheet, until warmed through.
Oven baked butternut squash freezes really well! Can be frozen for 4–6 months. To do so, simply add cooled roasted butternut squash to a large freezer-safe ziplock bag or container and store it in the freezer. The great thing about freezing squash is that you can freeze it cooked or uncooked. You can also puree it before freezing for best results which avoids it from getting mushy in texture.
Absolutely! You can roast it in various ways – halved, cubed, or sliced, depending on your recipe and preference. If larger you will need to adjust cooking time.
This oven baked butternut squash is ready when it's tender, slightly caramelized, and easily pierced with a fork. The exact time depends on the size of your pieces and your oven temperature.
It's not a must but peeling can enhance the texture and flavor, especially for dishes where the skin may be less desirable.
Absolutely. Follow all the same steps then air fry at around 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking or flipping them occasionally for even cooking. You'll end up with perfectly roasted butternut squash, with a delightful crunch on the outside and creamy insides!
More Back-To-The-Basics Recipes You Will LOVE!
- How To Cook Basmati Rice
- How to Make Quick Pickled Vegetables
- How To Make Chocolate Oat Milk
- How To Make Crispy Seasoned French Fries
- How to Make Vegan Ranch Dressing
MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
If you loved my How to Roast Butternut Squash recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you.
How to Roast Butternut Squash
Ingredients
BUTTERNUT SQUASH:
- 1 small butternut squash, organic (About 1 lb.)
- ¼ cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsps sea salt
- 2 tsps black pepper
- 2 tsps smoked paprika
- 2 tsps garlic powder
- 2 tsps onion powder
- 2 tsps dried parsley
- 2 tsps dried oregano
- 2 tsps dried basil
- 2 tsps dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of chili powder
Instructions
PREP + CUT THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH:
- Using a vegetable peeler, peel the skin and white layer beneath the skin of the squash. On a cutting board, carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise with a large knife, scooping out the seeds and pulp using a spoon and discarding them.
- Then with each half, cut the butternut squash into 1-inch medium thick cubes until all butternut squash is used. Add everything to a large bowl.
SEASON + BAKE:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In the bowl with the cubed butternut squash, add the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, parsley, oregano, basil, garlic powder, thyme, chili powder, red pepper flakes, and cinnamon, tossing everything together until it's fully coated.
- Transfer the butternut squash to the baking sheet and arrange in a single layer. Bake until the butternut squash is golden-brown and knife tender, about 30-35 minutes. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool.
- Use the roasted butternut squash in any recipe like soup, over tacos, in pasta, etc.
- Leftovers can be stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated when ready to serve. To re-heat, add roasted butternut squash to the oven on a baking sheet, until warmed through.
- Bon Appetit!
Tips & Tricks
- STORAGE: Leftovers can be stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated when ready to serve. To re-heat, add roasted butternut squash to the oven on a baking sheet, until warmed through.
- FREEZE OPTION: Butternut squash freezes really well! Can be frozen for 4–6 months. To do so, simply add cooled roasted butternut squash to a large freezer-safe ziplock bag or container and store it in the freezer. The great thing about freezing squash is that you can freeze it cooked or uncooked. You can also puree it before freezing for best results which avoids it from getting mushy in texture.
Nutrition
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