Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash 🍁🎃🌰
This Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash is the ultimate sweet and savory fall side dish! Caramelized butternut squash cubes are tossed with rich maple syrup, butter, and toasted pecans for a festive, cozy flavor perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals. 💚
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Squash 💚
- ✅ Sweet & Savory: Maple syrup and butter balance perfectly with the earthy squash.
- ✅ Simple Ingredients: Made with easy pantry staples and fresh produce.
- ✅ Perfect Fall Vibes: Toasty, caramelized, cozy flavors in every bite.
- ✅ Holiday Ready: Elegant enough for Thanksgiving, easy enough for every day!
🎃 Maple Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–2½ lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed 🎃
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup 🍁
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- ½ tsp cinnamon 🌿
- ¼ tsp salt 🧂
- ¼ tsp black pepper 🧂
- ⅓ cup chopped pecans 🌰
- Optional: extra maple syrup for drizzling 🍁
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (Expanded)
- Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare the squash:
- Place cubed squash in a large mixing bowl.
- Add olive oil, melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Toss until all pieces are evenly coated with the sweet and savory mixture.
- Roast the squash:
Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through for even caramelization. - Add the pecans:
After 25 minutes, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the squash. Continue roasting for another 8–10 minutes, until the squash is fork-tender and the pecans are lightly toasted. - Finish & serve:
Drizzle with a little extra maple syrup if desired and serve warm. 🍁🎃🌰
💡 Flavor Tips & Creative Variations
- ✨ Make it smoky: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
- ✨ Extra herbs: Toss with fresh rosemary or sage before roasting for an earthy touch.
- ✨ Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a sweet-and-spicy combo.
- ✨ Nut swap: Use walnuts or hazelnuts if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
🌰 Nutritional Highlights
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Pecans add healthy fats and minerals, while maple syrup provides natural sweetness—making this dish both delicious and nourishing.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- ✅ Make-ahead tip: Peel and cube the squash up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container.
- ✅ Storage: Store roasted squash in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- ✅ Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best texture.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Absolutely! Pre-cut squash saves time. Just make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for even roasting.
Is it necessary to peel the butternut squash?
Yes, for the best texture. The peel can be tough even after roasting, so it’s best to remove it before cooking.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with more olive oil or use a vegan butter alternative.
Cozy, Sweet, & Perfectly Roasted 💚
Celebrate fall flavors with this Maple Pecan Roasted Butternut Squash! 🍁🎃💬 Share your cozy side dish photos in the comments or tag your creations on Pinterest!
