Warm up your kitchen with this irresistible Baked Winter Squash recipe, a perfect side dish for cozy nights or festive gatherings. Featuring versatile winter squash varieties like butternut, acorn, or delicata, this dish is roasted to perfection with a luscious glaze of olive oil, maple syrup, and aromatic cinnamon. Hints of fresh thyme elevate the earthy sweetness, while salt and black pepper add a gentle savory balance. The squash caramelizes beautifully, creating golden edges and tender bites that burst with flavor. Ready in just an hour, this easy, crowd-pleasing dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, seasonal salads, or grain bowls. Whether you're embracing fall flavors or looking for a hearty vegetarian option, this baked squash recipe hits all the right notes!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Wash and dry the winter squash. Slice each squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. If using delicata squash, you can leave the skin on. For butternut or acorn squash, you may choose to peel it if preferred.
Cut the squash into 1-inch thick slices or chunks for even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. If desired, add the fresh thyme for extra flavor.
Add the squash pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
Spread the coated squash onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your baked winter squash as a side dish, salad topping, or a comforting main course!
Calories |
677 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.8 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1215 mg | 53% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 113.9 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.6 g | 95% | |
| Total Sugars | 42.1 g | ||
| Protein | 7.1 g | 14% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 344 mg | 26% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 2285 mg | 49% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.