Transform your fall cooking with this Simple Baked Butternut Squash recipe, a flavorful, fuss-free dish that celebrates the naturally sweet and nutty flavors of this seasonal favorite. With just a handful of pantry staples—olive oil, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and fresh thyme—this oven-roasted squash is perfectly caramelized, tender, and bursting with autumnal goodness. Ready in just an hour, including prep time, this wholesome side dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it alongside roasted meats, toss it into salads or grain bowls, or simply enjoy it as a comforting plant-based option at your table. Ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, this recipe is your go-to for a cozy taste of fall.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Begin by carefully peeling the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler. Cut off the top and bottom ends of the squash.
Slice the peeled squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and discard them.
Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes, trying to keep the pieces as uniform as possible for even cooking.
In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly browned, stirring halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Remove the squash from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving.
Serve warm as a comforting side dish or incorporate into salads, grain bowls, or pasta for a hearty meal.
Calories |
806 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.5 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1236 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 144.8 g | 53% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.7 g | 160% | |
| Total Sugars | 26.9 g | ||
| Protein | 12.5 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 581 mg | 45% | |
| Iron | 8.8 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 3885 mg | 83% | |
*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.