Easy Roasted Butternut Squash

Perfectly roasted butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're enjoying it as a flavorful vegetable side dish or incorporating it into your favorite fall soups, this simple, no-fuss method makes roasting squash in the oven a breeze.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 (as a side dish)

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 3 lbs)

• 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  

  Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven. Set the oven to 400°F with the rack in the center. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, or use a non-stick baking sheet.

  2. Peel the squash. Using a potato peeler or vegetable peeler, peel the butternut squash going from the stem to the base. Cut off the stem, then halve the squash lengthwise. Scoop out and discard the seeds.

  3. Chop the squash. Cut the squash into 1-inch chunks. They don't have to be perfect, but keeping them evenly sized will ensure even roasting.

  4. Season the squash. Transfer the squash to the baking sheet, drizzle with oil, salt, and pepper, and toss to combine.

  5. Roast. Spread the squash evenly in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake until fork-tender and golden brown in spots, about 35–40 minutes, depending on the size. Be sure to turn the squash after 20 minutes for even roasting.

  Notes

  Variations:

  • Cinnamon – Toss with cinnamon and brown sugar.

  • Spicy – Season with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or Cajun spice.

  • Pecans – Sprinkle with crushed pecans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

  • Herbs – Toss with dried herbs or garnish with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, parsley, chives, garlic, or oregano.

  • Bacon – Toss with bacon fat before roasting for more flavor. Top with cooked and diced bacon or pancetta to serve.

  • Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan or pecorino.
    

    Nutrition Per Serving

    • Calories: 119 kcal

    • Carbs: 15g

    • Protein: 1g

    • Fat: 7g