Butternut Squash Apple Bake – A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe
Introduction
This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a comforting and flavorful fall dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. It’s easy to prepare and makes a wonderful side or even a light main course during cooler months.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 3 firm apples, cored and sliced
- 3 tbsp butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and sliced apples with melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and maple syrup if using.
- Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 4: Bake for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Step 5: Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme or your favorite nuts for added texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the best texture and balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- For a savory variation, omit the cinnamon and nutmeg, and add chopped fresh rosemary instead.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bake ahead and refrigerate it uncovered for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use frozen butternut squash instead of fresh?
Fresh butternut squash works best for texture, but you can use thawed frozen squash. Drain any excess moisture before mixing to avoid a watery bake.
PrintButternut Squash Apple Bake – A Cozy Fall Favorite Recipe
This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a comforting and cozy dish perfect for fall. It combines tender roasted butternut squash and sweet, spiced apples baked to perfection with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of maple syrup. This simple recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a versatile side dish for holiday meals or a wholesome everyday treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruit
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
- 3 firm apples, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
Other Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and allow for easy serving.
- Prepare Squash and Apples: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash and cored, sliced apples with melted butter (or coconut oil), cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and maple syrup if using. This will evenly coat the mixture with spices and add a slight sweetness.
- Bake the Mixture: Spread the coated squash and apples evenly in the prepared baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Serve Warm: Once baked until the squash is tender and apples are soft, remove from the oven. Serve warm, optionally garnishing with fresh thyme or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the best texture that holds up well during baking.
- For a savory variation, omit the cinnamon and nutmeg and add fresh or dried rosemary instead.
- This dish can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with coconut oil.
- Delicious served as a side dish for holiday meals or as a cozy autumnal snack.
Keywords: butternut squash apple bake, fall side dish, roasted butternut squash, baked apples, autumn recipe, cozy fall recipes
