If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing side that perfectly balances sweet and savory, look no further than Honey Roasted Butternut Squash. This dish transforms humble squash into caramelized cubes of golden deliciousness with just a handful of simple ingredients. Each bite bursts with warm cinnamon and a gentle touch of honey, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or festive holiday spreads. Whether you’re new to roasting vegetables or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this recipe is as easy as it is irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Honey Roasted Butternut Squash lies in its simplicity. With only a few ingredients, each one shines through, bringing layers of flavor and color that make this dish so memorable. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is essential:
- Butternut squash: Its natural sweetness and creamy texture are the heart of this recipe. Use a medium squash for about 4 cups when cubed.
- Olive oil: Adds deep richness and ensures the squash gets beautifully crisp around the edges without drying out.
- Honey: The star ingredient for a luscious glaze and lovely caramelized bits.
- Ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and earthy aroma, taking the flavor profile straight into comfort-food territory.
- Salt: Pops the natural sweetness and balances the honey perfectly.
- Black pepper: Gives just enough bite to prevent the dish from tasting cloying.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a vibrant, fresh finish that wakes up the final dish and gives it color.
How to Make Honey Roasted Butternut Squash
Step 1: Prep the Butternut Squash
Start by carefully peeling your butternut squash, then slice it lengthwise to remove the seeds. Cut it into even 1-inch cubes, aiming for similar sizes so the pieces roast evenly. If you’re short on time, some stores offer pre-cubed squash, making this step a breeze.
Step 2: Toss with Honey and Spices
In a large mixing bowl, combine your squash cubes with olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the pieces are thoroughly coated—this is what creates that signature golden, glistening finish we love in Honey Roasted Butternut Squash!
Step 3: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup simple. Spread the coated squash cubes out in a single layer, giving each piece a little space. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting, so don’t be shy about using two trays if needed.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Roast the squash at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through. You’re looking for nicely browned edges and a fork-tender interior. Opening the oven to the sweet, caramelized aroma of Honey Roasted Butternut Squash is nothing short of magical.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once roasted, give your squash a final toss and transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and a pop of color, then enjoy while warm so every bite is soft and flavorful.
How to Serve Honey Roasted Butternut Squash
Garnishes
For a beautiful presentation and a hit of brightness, scatter chopped fresh parsley over the warm squash. If you love a little texture, try toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of crumbled feta. These add extra flavor and turn your Honey Roasted Butternut Squash into something restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains like roasted chicken, beef tenderloin, or even a holiday ham. For vegetarians, toss it into grain bowls or serve alongside a hearty lentil salad. The balance of sweet and savory ensures Honey Roasted Butternut Squash makes friends with just about anything on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning leftovers into a vibrant autumn salad with baby greens, toasted nuts, and goat cheese. For a fun appetizer, scoop the roasted squash onto crostini with a swipe of ricotta. Or blend into a creamy, spiced soup for a second act that’s every bit as comforting and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftover Honey Roasted Butternut Squash to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a wonderful make-ahead option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your dish, allow the squash to cool completely before spreading in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Transfer to freezer bags or containers and store for up to 2 months. Thawed squash works especially well in soups and grain bowls.
Reheating
To reheat, simply spread the squash on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and slightly crisped. Microwaving is fast, but the oven delivers the best texture, reviving the outside’s gentle caramelization while keeping the inside tender.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash for Honey Roasted Butternut Squash?
Absolutely! Pre-cut squash is a fantastic time-saver and works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even roasting.
Is it necessary to peel the butternut squash?
For the best texture, yes. The peel can be tough and chewy after roasting, so a quick peel with a vegetable peeler is well worth the extra minute.
What can I substitute for honey?
If you’d like to make your Honey Roasted Butternut Squash vegan or just want a different flavor, try pure maple syrup or agave nectar in equal amounts. The end result will still be sweetly caramelized and delicious.
How do I know when the squash is done?
The squash is perfectly cooked when you can easily pierce a cube with a fork and the edges are deeply golden and caramelized. Give it a gentle toss at the 15-minute mark to ensure even browning.
Can I add other spices?
Definitely! A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper will add a little heat, or sprinkle on some garlic powder for a savory twist. The base recipe is wonderfully flexible to your favorite flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made Honey Roasted Butternut Squash before, now’s your moment! The balance of silky-soft squash, golden honey, and aromatic spices makes this dish truly unforgettable. I hope you’ll give it a try soon—one bite and you’ll see why this is a go-to favorite for gatherings and cozy dinners alike.
Print
Honey Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash recipe is a delightful side dish perfect for fall. The combination of sweet honey, warm cinnamon, and savory squash creates a dish that is both comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed—about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, honey, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the squash in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and tender.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, toss in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grain bowls, or holiday sides.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
