Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

This recipe for Easy Roasted Butternut Squash is the epitome of simple, cozy, and delicious fall cooking. It transforms the humble butternut squash into tender, sweet, and savory cubes with just a few pantry staples. The squash is roasted until perfectly soft and caramelized with a coating of melted butter, sweet brown sugar, and a warm hint of cinnamon. It’s a classic, foolproof method that highlights the vegetable’s natural sweetness.

Perfect as a simple side dish for a weeknight dinner or as an elegant addition to your Thanksgiving table, this roasted butternut squash is incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a healthy, satisfying, and beautiful way to celebrate the flavors of the autumn season.

this recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Easy: Requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work.
• Healthy & Delicious: A nutritious side dish that tastes like a decadent treat.
• Perfect Fall Flavors: The sweet and savory combination of squash, brown sugar, and cinnamon is pure comfort.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork, or a holiday turkey.

Ingredients

• 1 medium Butternut Squash
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt
• Pinch of Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prep the Squash: Carefully peel the butternut squash, then cut it in half lengthwise. Use a sturdy spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. Season: In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Roast: Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the squash is completely tender and the edges are lightly caramelized.
6. Serve: Serve hot, right out of the oven.

Tips & Variations

• Pro Tip: To make peeling and cutting the squash easier, you can pierce the skin a few times with a knife and microwave the whole squash for 3-5 minutes to soften it slightly.
• Savory Version: For a savory twist, omit the brown sugar and cinnamon. Instead, toss the squash with butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary.
• Maple Syrup: Substitute the brown sugar with an equal amount of pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
• Add Nuts: After roasting, toss with some toasted chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunchy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Do I have to peel the butternut squash?
  • Yes, for this recipe, it’s best to peel the butternut squash. The skin is thick and tough and does not become tender enough to eat, unlike the skin of delicata squash.
• How do I store and reheat leftovers?
  • Store any leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• How do I know when the squash is done?
  • The best way to tell is by piercing a cube with a fork. If the fork slides in easily with no resistance, the squash is perfectly tender and ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

• This simple roasted butternut squash is a perfect side dish for roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or as part of a Thanksgiving feast. It’s also a great addition to salads and grain bowls.

Abby

Easy Roasted Butternut Squash

This cinnamon roasted butternut squash is caramelized, tender, and full of cozy fall flavor. Brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of cayenne make it both sweet and slightly spicy.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Fall

Calories: 203

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• dash cayenne pepper, optional

Equipment

• Large baking sheets
• Aluminum foil or silicone baking mats
• Mixing bowl
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line two large baking sheets with aluminum foil or silicone baking mats.
2. In a large bowl, toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne until well coated.
3. Spread the seasoned squash evenly onto prepared baking sheets in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for best browning.
4. Roast for 40–45 minutes, turning once and rotating pans halfway through, until edges are lightly browned and centers are tender. Check occasionally to prevent over-roasting.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even caramelization. Great as a side dish for fall and holiday meals. Optional cayenne adds a subtle heat.