Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, then Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just what you need! This delightful recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of butternut squash and apples, creating a warm side dish that’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings. It’s one of those recipes that fills your home with an inviting aroma, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it even hits the table.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something that not only tastes amazing but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, Butternut Squash Apple Bake is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors and comforting textures; it’s a hit with everyone!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious fall flavors: The combination of cinnamon, apples, and butternut squash capture all the warmth of autumn in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Butternut Squash Apple Bake, you’ll be using simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. They come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.

For the Bake

• 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

The beauty of Butternut Squash Apple Bake is its flexibility. Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Add extra crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an added texture that complements the softness of the squash.
• Sweeten it up: If you love things a bit sweeter, try adding maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique twist!
• Go nut-free: If you’re avoiding nuts, simply omit them or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds for similar crunch without the allergens.
• Mix in other fruits: Pears or even figs would pair wonderfully with the squash and spices for an even more flavorful bake.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This step ensures that your dish will cook evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mixing these ingredients well allows their flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s important because each bite should be bursting with sweetness!

Step 3: Season It Up

Add in the salt and black pepper next. Mixing these in will enhance all those fabulous flavors while balancing out the sweetness from the fruit.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour your butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid. Spreading it evenly helps ensure even cooking throughout so every piece gets that delicious roasted flavor.

Step 5: Add Butter and Start Baking

Now sprinkle chopped butter throughout the mixture. Covering it up and baking for 15 minutes allows the squash to start softening while soaking up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Add More Goodies

After 15 minutes, take it out and add in your raisins, cranberries, and pecans. Give everything a good toss to mix—this adds richness and texture. Cover again and place back in the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is tender and lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once done baking, remove it from the oven and give it a gentle stir. Serve warm as a delightful side dish that brings warmth to any meal! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Creating the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is easy with a few handy tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji to balance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash. This enhances the overall flavor profile and makes the dish irresistibly delicious.
• Cut Evenly: Make sure to cube your butternut squash and apples into similar sizes. Even pieces ensure uniform cooking, leading to tender and perfectly baked fruit and veggies every time.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon can significantly enhance the aroma and flavor of your bake. A little extra care in choosing high-quality spices goes a long way in making your dish memorable.
• Experiment with Nuts: While pecans and walnuts are great choices, don’t hesitate to try other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a unique crunch. Different nuts can provide varying textures and flavors that keep things interesting!
• Let it Rest: Allowing your Butternut Squash Apple Bake to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It also makes serving easier as it firms up slightly.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Presenting your Butternut Squash Apple Bake can be as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ways to serve this comforting dish at your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm, sweet flavors of the bake.
• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup just before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: For a twist, serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top for those who enjoy a creamy finish!

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts provide a savory contrast to the sweet bake, balancing out the meal perfectly while adding fiber and nutrients.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing touch alongside the rich flavors of the Butternut Squash Apple Bake.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes bring comfort to any table, making them an excellent pairing for this cozy dish.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness, complementing both flavor and texture in your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Butternut Squash Apple Bake will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the Butternut Squash Apple Bake completely.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it for quicker reheating!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Butternut Squash Apple Bake that you might find helpful!

Can I make Butternut Squash Apple Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish the day before and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.

What can I substitute for brown sugar in Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, honey works beautifully. You could also use maple syrup or coconut sugar depending on your preference.

How do I know when my Butternut Squash Apple Bake is done?

The bake is ready when the butternut squash is tender and lightly browned. A fork should easily pierce through the squash when it’s fully cooked.

Can I use other types of apples in Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Yes! While gala apples are sweet and great for baking, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Butternut Squash Apple Bake! It’s a delightful addition to any meal, bursting with fall flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is special because it brings everyone together around the table. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!