Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash is everything you want in a fall side dish: it’s sweet and savory, warmly spiced, and gloriously caramelized at the edges. The gentle warmth from cinnamon, cumin, and smoked paprika balances beautifully with a drizzle of maple syrup, transforming everyday squash into something you’ll want to eat right off the pan. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal or building the perfect holiday spread, this dish is always a showstopper—and just wait until your kitchen fills with those irresistible autumn aromas!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients truly make this dish shine, and each one plays a starring role—whether adding natural sweetness, warm spice, or a fresh pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need to bring Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash to life, plus a few tips to ensure every bite is a burst of flavor.
- Butternut squash: Choose a large, firm squash with matte skin; sweet and earthy, it’s the main event in this recipe.
- Olive oil: This adds richness, helps the spices cling, and encourages beautifully crispy, caramelized edges.
- Maple syrup: For subtle sweetness and sticky, golden flavor, look for pure maple—never the fake stuff!
- Ground cinnamon: Brings classic warmth and a hint of coziness to every bite.
- Ground cumin: Adds depth and a gently savory, nutty undertone that plays well with sweetness.
- Ground cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of pleasant heat; adjust or leave out to suit your spice preference.
- Smoked paprika: This spice imparts a hint of smokiness, giving a complex, grown-up kick to the squash.
- Salt: Essential to enhance all the other flavors and balance out the natural sweetness.
- Black pepper: A hint of sharpness to round out the spice profile—freshly ground is best if you have it.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped and scattered just before serving for a burst of color and herby freshness.
How to Make Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and ensures nothing sticks, so you get every golden, caramelized bite without the fuss.
Step 2: Season the Squash
In a big bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated—use your hands for maximum coverage and to fully infuse the squash with all those delicious spices.
Step 3: Arrange and Roast
Spread out the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Crowding the pan will make them steam instead of roast, so grab a second sheet if you need space. Slide them into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. You’re looking for squash that’s fork-tender in the middle and golden on the edges.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once your Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash is gorgeously caramelized and your kitchen smells like autumn, transfer the cubes to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you have it. Serve warm—and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash
Garnishes
This dish is already stunning, but a little finish goes a long way! A handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro brings a welcome freshness and pop of green. If you’d like to get a bit fancy, try toasted pumpkin seeds, a sprinkle of pomegranate arils, or even a dusting of extra smoked paprika—each one adds its own sparkle and intrigue to your Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash.
Side Dishes
Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash is versatile enough to cozy up alongside just about anything. Pair it with roast chicken or turkey for a holiday table, or spoon it next to grilled salmon or pork chops. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside wild rice pilaf, a leafy green salad, or a sharp cheese-topped gratin—the flavors really play well with others!
Creative Ways to Present
Set this squash in the center of the table as a showpiece side, top it with feta or goat cheese crumbles for a Mediterranean vibe, or use the cubes to add punchy color and flavor to grain bowls or salads. If you’re in the mood to impress, skewer a few roasted cubes onto cocktail picks for party appetizers, or stash leftovers in wraps and sandwiches for a lunch-time upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash keeps happily in the fridge for up to four days. Store the cooled squash in an airtight container—just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to prevent sogginess from steam.
Freezing
Want to make ahead? Absolutely! Lay cooled squash cubes flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then stash in zip-top bags or containers for up to three months. This method keeps the pieces from sticking together, so you can use just what you need.
Reheating
To reclaim the crispy edges and tender center, reheat the squash in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or toss them in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes. The microwave will do in a pinch, though the texture won’t be quite as magical.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Absolutely! Pre-cut butternut squash makes this dish even easier. Just check for freshness and trim any overly large pieces so everything roasts evenly.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
No problem at all. Feel free to skip the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to suit your taste. The Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash will still be flavorful, just without the heat.
Can I substitute another type Side Dish
Definitely—this recipe works well with other firm winter squash like acorn or kabocha. Each variety brings its own unique flavor and texture, so experiment and find your favorite!
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash is naturally gluten-free and, as long as you use pure maple syrup, completely vegan too. It’s perfect for sharing with all kinds of guests.
How do I prevent the squash from sticking?
Lining your pan with parchment paper is the best way to prevent sticking, and tossing the cubes thoroughly in olive oil also helps. Be sure not to crowd the pan—space lets the squash roast instead of steam!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash a spot on your table. It’s the kind of dish that makes any meal feel special and brings warmth to every bite. Gather your favorite people, set out a big bowl, and dig in—you’ll be coming back for seconds!
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Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Roasted Spiced Butternut Squash recipe is a delightful side dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The butternut squash is coated in a blend of warm spices and roasted to caramelized perfection, making it a great addition to any meal, especially during the fall season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 5 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Roast the squash: Toss until the squash is evenly coated with the oil and spices. Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a side dish.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level or omit it entirely for a milder version.
- This dish pairs perfectly with roasted meats, poultry, or as a colorful vegetarian side for holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
