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roasted butternut squash bake - featured image

Roasted Butternut Squash Bake


  • Author: Lara
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A comforting, creamy winter dish that transforms roasted butternut squash into a luxurious bake with a crispy, cheesy topping. It is naturally gluten-free, versatile, and perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large butternut squash (about 34 pounds / 1.5 kg), peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Peel the squash, remove seeds, and cut flesh into 1-inch cubes.
  3. Place squash cubes on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Roast for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized. Let cool slightly.
  5. Transfer roasted squash to a large mixing bowl. Add melted butter, maple syrup, heavy cream, egg, garlic, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper.
  6. Blend with a food processor until smooth or mash with a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  8. Pour squash mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
  9. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, toasted nuts, and fresh thyme.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  11. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil, coconut cream, and vegan cheese. The bake can be made ahead by roasting and mashing the squash up to 2 days in advance. Do not freeze, as the texture may become grainy. Toast nuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before adding for better flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 14
  • Sodium: 320
  • Fat: 15
  • Saturated Fat: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 32
  • Fiber: 5
  • Protein: 8

Keywords: butternut squash, roasted squash, winter recipes, gluten-free, vegetarian, comfort food, holiday sides, healthy dinner