Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that captures the essence of fall, you’ve landed in the right place with this Butternut Squash Apple Bake. This recipe has been a cherished part of my family gatherings, bringing smiles and sweet aromas to our holiday table. The delightful combination of roasted butternut squash and crisp apples makes it a standout side dish, perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive feasts.

What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. It’s easy to throw together, yet it feels special enough for any occasion. The warm spices and natural sweetness will have your loved ones asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of butternut squash and apples; it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish ahead of time, saving you valuable moments during busy meal prep.
• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and mixed fruits create a comforting taste that perfectly embodies the fall season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is made from simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Each component adds its own unique flavor, making this dish a true delight.

• 1 1/2 pounds peeled (seeded, and small cubed butternut squash {about 2 cups, cubed evenly})
• 2 gala apples (peeled, cored and diced {or a sweet apple of your choice})
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar {or use honey}
• 2 tablespoons butter (chopped into sections)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup pecans {or walnuts}
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Variations

One of the best things about Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how flexible it is. Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Fruits: Toss in some chopped pears or figs for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Switch Up the Nuts: Try almonds or hazelnuts instead of pecans or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to keep this dish plant-based.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an exciting twist on classic fall flavors.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures that your Butternut Squash Apple Bake cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown color we all adore.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mixing these ingredients well allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 3: Season It Right

Next, add salt and black pepper to the mixture. These seasonings enhance the natural sweetness of the squash and apples while adding depth to the flavor profile.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid, spreading it out evenly. This step helps ensure even cooking throughout the bake.

Step 5: Add Butter and Bake

Place chopped pieces of butter throughout the mixture before covering it with the lid. Bake for about 15 minutes; this will help soften the squash while allowing those delicious flavors to develop.

Step 6: Mix in Fruits & Nuts

After baking for15 minutes, carefully add in raisins, cranberries, and pecans. Gently toss everything together using tongs or a spoon so that every bite is packed with goodness! Cover again and return to bake for another 15 minutes until everything is tender.

Step 7: Final Touches & Serve

Once done baking, give your dish a good stir before serving warm. This final step helps blend all those wonderful flavors together one last time!

Now you have an incredible Butternut Squash Apple Bake ready to impress at any meal! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

With these simple tips, you can elevate your Butternut Squash Apple Bake to a whole new level of deliciousness!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji. Their natural sweetness complements the squash beautifully and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Uniform cubing: Ensure your butternut squash and apples are cut into similar-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly, resulting in a tender texture throughout.
• Mix it up: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits! Adding almonds or dried cherries can provide a delightful twist to the classic recipe, making it uniquely yours.
• Don’t skip the cover: Covering the dish while it bakes keeps moisture in, allowing the squash to steam and soften without drying out. This ensures a perfectly tender bake every time.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Presenting your Butternut Squash Apple Bake is all about enhancing its warm and cozy vibe. Here are some great ideas for serving this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle a bit of fresh thyme or rosemary on top for an aromatic touch that brightens up the flavors.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cranberries and nuts pairs perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the bake.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crunchy texture and slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balance out the sweetness of the butternut squash well.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a crunchy, nutty complement to your meal, enhancing both taste and presentation.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting side, creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich and smooth contrast to the sweet elements of your bake.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, you’re not just creating a meal; you’re crafting a beautiful dining experience that everyone will remember fondly. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about the Butternut Squash Apple Bake is that it’s perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Butternut Squash Apple Bake!

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Absolutely! While butternut squash is recommended for its sweetness and texture, you can experiment with other varieties like acorn squash or pumpkin.

How do I make Butternut Squash Apple Bake vegan?

You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative. Instead of brown sugar, you may use maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness!

What are some variations for Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Feel free to mix in different fruits like pears or add spices such as nutmeg for extra warmth. You could also include oats on top for a crumble-like texture!

Can I prepare Butternut Squash Apple Bake in advance?

Yes! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this Butternut Squash Apple Bake! With its sweet and warm flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite side dish at your holiday table or any cozy gathering. Enjoy creating this comforting recipe and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!