Brown Sugar Roasted Butternut

Brown sugar roasted butternut squash is pure cozy comfort in a bowl and it always brings warmth to our table whenever the weather turns cool. You get irresistible caramelized bites in under an hour with hardly any prep needed making this the kind of recipe that lets you savor squash’s natural sweetness with just a handful of basic ingredients.

The first time I made this for my family it disappeared even faster than I expected Now whenever I see butternut squash at the market I grab two because everyone requests this dish

Ingredients

• Butternut squash: about two pounds Look for a firm squash with matte skin and deep orange color for best texture and flavor
• Olive oil: helps the squash caramelize Choose extra virgin olive oil for added depth
• Brown sugar: brings out butternut squash’s natural sweetness Use dark brown sugar for a richer taste if you prefer
• Salt: sharpens all the flavors Fine sea salt works best for even seasoning
• Black pepper: provides just enough gentle heat Freshly cracked is always best
• Cinnamon: adds a touch of autumn spice Choose good cinnamon for maximum aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Squash:

Begin by preheating your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit This guarantees even roasting and crisp caramelization Peel the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler then cut in half scoop out the seeds and cut into one inch cubes Try to make the pieces as uniform as possible for even cooking

Toss with the Seasonings:

Add the cubes to a large mixing bowl Drizzle with olive oil sprinkle over the brown sugar salt black pepper and cinnamon Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to toss everything together until each piece is evenly coated The oil is essential for good roasting and the sugar helps everything caramelize

Arrange on the Pan:

Spread the squash cubes onto a large rimmed baking sheet in a single layer If the pan is crowded use two sheets to avoid steaming The single layer ensures each piece gets golden on all sides

Roast to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet on the center rack Roast for about twenty five to thirty minutes Flip halfway through to get even browning Check that the squash is tender and edges are caramelized For extra crispiness leave the pan under the broiler for one to two minutes but watch closely

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the roasted squash warm right out of the oven The caramelized edges and sweet aroma are irresistible alone or as a side

Brown sugar is my absolute favorite part of this dish because it melts and creates a glossy glaze on every bite When my children were little they used to sneak cubes off the tray before I could even serve dinner because the kitchen smelled so amazing

Storage Tips

Let leftover roasted squash cool completely before storing Use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days I like to toss cold leftovers into salads or reheat in a hot oven for best texture Microwaving is convenient but can soften the squash

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have brown sugar try maple syrup or honey for a different sort of sweetness Pumpkin pie spice can be swapped for the cinnamon or use a little nutmeg for warmth You can use avocado oil if you are out of olive oil

Serving Suggestions

Roasted butternut squash pairs well with roasted chicken or baked tofu Toss it into a grain bowl or over leafy greens This is a favorite for holiday tables and looks beautiful alongside cranberry and sage flavors

Cultural and Historical Context

Butternut squash is prized in autumn and winter cooking thanks to its natural sweetness and vibrant color Across cultures squash is often paired with warming spices and sweeteners creating a comforting dish for cold weather gatherings

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I ensure butternut squash gets evenly caramelized?

Spread the butternut squash cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet, allowing space for the hot air to circulate and brown them evenly.

→ Can I substitute another oil for olive oil?

Yes, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil; each imparts a slightly different flavor profile to the finished dish.

→ How do I keep the squash from becoming mushy?

Roast at a high temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan to promote caramelization and prevent steaming.

→ What other spices pair well with this dish?

Try adding paprika, nutmeg, or a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick alongside the sweetness of brown sugar.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the squash and seasoning ahead of time, then roast just before serving for peak freshness.