Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and home, the Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just what you need. This delightful recipe combines sweet butternut squash and juicy apples, creating a comforting side that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

What I love most about this Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how effortlessly it brings those beautiful fall flavors to life. It’s sweet, warm, and makes your kitchen smell heavenly as it bakes. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare! Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe has become a favorite in our household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste of apples combined with butternut squash; it’s a hit with all ages!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it early in the day or even the night before, then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal, it complements a variety of main courses beautifully.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar creates an irresistible aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutritional goodness.

For the Bake

• 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 my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Other Fruits: Toss in some chopped pears or figs for added sweetness.
• Nut Options: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds depending on what you like best.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to keep it plant-based.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your dish starts cooking evenly as soon as it goes in the oven!

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes, diced apples, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Mixing these ingredients together allows all those sweet flavors to meld beautifully. Be sure to mix well so every piece gets coated.

Step 3: Season It Up

Next, sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Taking this step adds just the right amount of seasoning to balance out the sweetness from the squash and apples.

Step 4: Create Your Bake

Pour the butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid. Spread everything out evenly—it helps them cook uniformly.

Step 5: Add Butter & Bake

Scatter chopped butter across the mixture before covering it with the lid. Pop it into the oven for about 15 minutes; this initial baking softens the squash quickly.

Step 6: Add Dried Fruits & Nuts

After 15 minutes, take it out and stir in raisins, cranberries, and pecans. Using tongs or a spoon helps mix everything nicely without breaking up the squash too much. Cover again and return it to bake for another 15 minutes until everything is tender and lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once it’s done baking, give it a good stir one last time before serving warm. This dish is perfect as a side at holiday dinners or any cozy meal!

Enjoy creating this Butternut Squash Apple Bake! It’s bound to be loved by everyone who tries it!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Creating the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a breeze with these handy tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh, seasonal produce enhances the natural flavors of your dish, making it even tastier.
• Cut uniform pieces: By cubing your butternut squash and apples evenly, they’ll cook at the same rate, ensuring everything is tender and perfectly baked.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar or honey according to your taste preference; this dish can be as sweet or as subtle as you like!
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is classic, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and complexity in flavor.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the butternut squash mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Serving your Butternut Squash Apple Bake can turn an everyday meal into something special! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness.
• Coconut whipped cream: For a decadent touch, top each serving with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing provides a refreshing balance to the warm flavors of the bake.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The earthy crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of butternut squash and apples.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add a lovely crunch and bright color to your holiday table.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting side that complements the sweetness of your bake while providing heartiness to your meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Butternut Squash Apple Bake will not only taste fantastic but also look appealing on your table! Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall throughout the week. Whether you’re planning your holiday menu or just want a cozy side dish, this recipe stores beautifully for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Let the Butternut Squash Apple Bake cool completely.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about the Butternut Squash Apple Bake:

Can I make Butternut Squash Apple Bake vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan buttery spread.

What can I serve with Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or as part of a vegetarian spread. It’s versatile enough to complement many holiday meals!

How long does Butternut Squash Apple Bake last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize the fruit used in Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sweet apples or add other dried fruits like apricots or figs for variety.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Butternut Squash Apple Bake! Its sweet warmth and delightful textures make it a truly special dish that brings the essence of fall to your table. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, I believe you’ll love every bite. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your experience!