Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a side dish that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table, then you’ve come to the right place! The Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it also fills the air with sweet, inviting aromas. This dish has become a family favorite of mine because it captures the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want something special for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up this delicious bake that pairs beautifully with any main course. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for all your gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for even the busiest schedules.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its sweet flavors and delightful texture, kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Fall Flavors: The combination of butternut squash and apples brings out the best of autumn’s bounty.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving or as an everyday meal accompaniment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather them up, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful dish that everyone will love.

• 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

One of the best things about Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how flexible it is! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Change up the nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
• Add some spice: Incorporate nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mix in other fruits: Try adding pears or dried figs alongside the apples for more variety.
• Top it off: Sprinkle some oats or granola on top before baking for a crunchy finish!

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures that your dish will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mixing these ingredients well allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Season It Up

Now add the salt and black pepper to the bowl. Mixing in these seasonings enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and apples while balancing their flavors.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid and spread it out evenly. This helps everything cook uniformly.

Step 5: Add Butter & Bake

Place chopped butter sections throughout the mixture. Cover it up and bake for 15 minutes. The butter will melt into the bake, adding richness as it cooks.

Step 6: Toss in Extras

After 15 minutes, take out your dish and add in raisins, cranberries, and pecans. Give everything a gentle toss using tongs or a spoon. Cover again and bake for another 15 minutes until everything is tender and lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, remove from the oven and give it one last stir. Serve warm alongside your favorite meal or enjoy as a comforting side dish during fall gatherings!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Making the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake can be a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Choose the right apples: Selecting sweet apples like Gala or Honeycrisp enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a nice balance to the natural sweetness of the squash.

• Cut uniform pieces: Ensuring your butternut squash and apples are cut into evenly sized cubes helps them cook evenly, resulting in a tender texture throughout.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter bake, feel free to add more brown sugar or honey. Adjusting the sweetness allows you to customize the dish to your liking.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and flavor. This can give your dish a unique twist that might surprise your guests!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the bake to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Serving Butternut Squash Apple Bake is all about showcasing its warm, inviting nature. This dish is perfect for gatherings, and there are plenty of ways to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or sage on top for a pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm bake.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: Adding a light drizzle of maple syrup just before serving will enhance its natural sweetness and give it an enticing shine.

Side Dishes

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors of the bake.

• Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with vegetable broth and tossed with herbs complements the earthiness of butternut squash while adding protein and fiber to your meal.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy outer leaves and tender centers of roasted Brussels sprouts create a delightful textural contrast alongside the soft, sweet bake.

• Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide another layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with both butternut squash and apples, making for a comforting side dish combination.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this cozy seasonal dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-5 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Let the Butternut Squash Apple Bake cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, adding a little water if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Butternut Squash Apple Bake that might help you out!

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! While this recipe features butternut squash, you can substitute with acorn or pumpkin squash for a different flavor profile.

How can I make my Butternut Squash Apple Bake sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter dish, simply increase the amount of brown sugar or honey used, or add extra raisins or cranberries.

Is Butternut Squash Apple Bake suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This recipe is kid-friendly with its sweet and warm flavors. It’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into their diets without them even noticing!

Can I add nuts or seeds to my Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Yes! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts like almonds or seeds such as sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Butternut Squash Apple Bake! Its combination of sweet apples and savory butternut squash creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones around your table. Happy cooking!