Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash

Name: Sunday Roasted Butternut Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making roasted butternut squash on Sundays as a comforting addition to our family meals. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with a hint of spice, creating a dish that's both satisfying and healthy. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for a special gathering. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Just chop, season, and roast. The result is a golden-brown, caramelized masterpiece that fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma.

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:30:36.793Z

When I first attempted roasting butternut squash, I was surprised by how easy and delicious it turned out to be. After trying multiple methods, I found that a simple toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper really lets the natural flavors shine. The key is cutting the squash into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

The aroma that fills the kitchen as it roasts is nothing short of heavenly. It’s one of those recipes that transforms an ordinary vegetable into something truly special, making it a staple in my home. Pairing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end elevates the dish even further!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Natural sweetness complemented by savory spices
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping
Nutritious and a great way to enjoy fall flavors

      

Choosing the Perfect Butternut Squash

When selecting a butternut squash, look for one that is heavy for its size with a smooth, firm skin that is tan in color. Avoid squash with blemishes or soft spots, as they could indicate spoilage. If possible, opt for a squash with a long neck, which provides more flesh for roasting and fewer seeds to deal with. Fresh butternut squash should feel dense and slightly heavy, a sign of optimal ripeness and flavor.

To get the best results from your dish, always remember that size matters. If your squash is particularly large, you might need to adjust your roasting time. Larger cubes will take longer to roast to achieve the desired caramelization. A good rule of thumb is to aim for uniform cube sizes of about one inch to ensure even cooking and texture throughout.

Mastering the Roasting Technique

Roasting butternut squash at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving a perfect balance of tenderness and caramelization. The high heat allows the natural sugars to caramelize, giving you those rich, golden edges that enhance the flavor beautifully. Keep an eye on the squash during the last 10 minutes of roasting; it can go from perfectly roasted to burnt quickly, especially the smaller pieces.

Using a rimmed baking sheet helps contain any juices that escape as the squash cooks, preventing a messy oven cleanup. If you're looking for an even crispier result, consider using a baking rack in the pan, allowing more heat circulation around the squash. Just make sure to flip the squash halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides brown evenly for that delightful texture.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Butternut Squash

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully peel the butternut squash, then cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and cube it into bite-sized pieces.

Season the Squash

In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon until well coated.

Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious roasted butternut squash!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the squash during the last few minutes of roasting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Roasted butternut squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep its texture intact, layer parchment paper between the pieces to minimize moisture loss. When reheating, I recommend using the oven or an air fryer to restore its crispness, as microwaving may result in a soggy texture. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

If you have leftovers, consider incorporating them into soups or salads for a quick and nutritious meal. Roasted squash adds a delightful sweetness and vibrant color to dishes, making it a versatile ingredient for your weeknight cooking.

Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a more complex flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix. These spices enhance the sweetness of the squash with a hint of heat, making for an exciting dish. Additionally, try tossing in some nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, during the last 10 minutes of roasting for added texture and a nutty flavor.

This roasted butternut squash pairs well with a variety of proteins like grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish. Alternatively, you can serve it over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens, creating a nutritious and hearty salad that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash, but the texture may be different. Make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with roasted butternut squash?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, as a side dish for Thanksgiving, or mixed into salads for added sweetness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftover roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

→ Can I add other spices to the squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or chili powder for a different flavor profile.