Description
This Roasted Butternut Squash recipe features tender cubes of butternut squash glazed with a luscious blend of melted butter, pure maple syrup, and savory broth. Baked to perfection, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced with optional fresh herbs and creamy feta cheese for a comforting side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3½ cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
Liquids & Sweeteners
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or turkey broth or vegetable broth)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
Seasonings & Garnishes
- ½-1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add squash and liquids: Place the cubed butternut squash into the prepared casserole dish. Pour the melted butter, chicken broth, and pure maple syrup evenly over the squash to ensure it is well coated.
- Season the squash: Sprinkle the kosher salt and ground black pepper over the squash. Add chopped fresh parsley or thyme if you choose to use herbs for added flavor.
- Initial baking: Loosely cover the casserole dish with foil or a lid and bake for 15 minutes. This helps steam the squash and infuse flavors.
- Uncover and continue baking: Remove the cover, stir the squash gently to coat it again in the buttery syrup mixture, then bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the hot squash before serving. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust the maple syrup amount for less sweetness if preferred.
- Fresh herbs add brightness but are optional—dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a vegetarian main when topped with more feta or nuts.
- Ensure the squash pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
