Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to bring warmth to your dining table, you’ve found it! Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fall flavors that can brighten any meal. The combination of sweet butternut squash and tart apples creates a delightful harmony that brings smiles all around. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting family over the holidays, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

What makes this dish extra special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously hearty bake ready in no time. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make Butternut Squash Apple Bake again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this dish prepped and in the oven quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet flavors of apples and squash; it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to vegetarian meals.
• Deliciously Seasonal: This bake captures all the lovely flavors of fall, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or any chilly evening.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this Butternut Squash Apple Bake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each one adds its own unique flavor and texture to create something truly special. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Bake

• 1 1/2 pounds peeled (seeded and small cubed) butternut squash (about 2 cups)
• 2 gala apples (peeled, cored, and diced or use 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 with your ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences.

• Change the Nuts: Use almonds or pumpkin seeds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
• Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make It Sweeter: Add more brown sugar or mix in some maple syrup for an added sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your bake cooks evenly and develops that lovely golden color we all adore.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes with the diced apples, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Mixing these ingredients well is key; it helps infuse the flavors throughout the squash and apples.

Step 3: Season It Right

Next, add the salt and pepper into your mixture. This step might seem small, but seasoning properly enhances all those natural flavors. Give everything another good mix until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour your mixed ingredients into a baking dish with a lid. Spread everything evenly so each piece gets nice and tender during baking.

Step 5: Add Butter & First Bake

Scatter the chopped butter throughout your mixture—it will melt during baking and add richness. Cover with the lid and pop it into the oven for 15 minutes. This first round helps soften everything up beautifully!

Step 6: Add Dried Fruits & Nuts

After 15 minutes, take out your dish and stir in the raisins, dried cranberries, and pecans. Toss everything together using tongs or a spoon; this ensures every bite has a bit of crunch as well as sweetness.

Step 7: Final Bake & Serve

Cover again and return to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is tender and lightly browned. Once done, stir again before serving warm! Enjoy this delightful blend of squash and apple goodness with your loved ones at any gathering or cozy night in!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Making the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips!

• Choose ripe apples: Using fresh, ripe apples ensures a natural sweetness that complements the squash beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
• Uniform cubing: Cutting the butternut squash and apples into even-sized pieces helps them cook evenly, ensuring that every bite is perfectly tender and delicious.
• Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of cinnamon or add nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth. This flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to your family’s preferences.
• Experiment with nuts: While pecans and walnuts are great choices, consider trying almonds or hazelnuts for a unique twist. Different nuts can bring varied textures and flavors that elevate your bake.
• Let it rest: After baking, let your dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together even more, making each bite delightful.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Serving Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just as fun as making it! The warm colors and inviting aroma make it a heartwarming centerpiece on any table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: Dusting a little extra cinnamon on top right before serving can enhance its aromatic appeal and reinforce those cozy fall flavors.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances the sweetness of the bake, creating a harmonious plate.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast while adding protein to your meal.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans with slivered almonds provide crunch and a hint of nuttiness, complementing the textures in your bake beautifully.
• Cranberry sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness of the bake, adding an exciting flavor contrast that guests will love.

Enjoy creating this delightful dish for your holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only a delightful dish for any occasion but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it, making your holiday preparations much easier.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down entirely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

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

Absolutely! While gala apples work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with any sweet apple variety you prefer, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp.

How long does it take to prepare the Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

The total time for this recipe is just 35 minutes: 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking. It’s a quick and easy side dish!

Can I make the Butternut Squash Apple Bake vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace brown sugar with maple syrup or agave if desired.

What health benefits does Butternut Squash provide?

Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this bake not only delicious but also nutritious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Butternut Squash Apple Bake! It’s a special recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table during the holidays. The combination of sweet apples and savory squash is truly comforting. Enjoy every bite and share it with loved ones; I’m sure they’ll love it just as much as you will. Happy cooking!