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Cozy Garlic Herb Roasted Butternut Squash: Easy Best Side Dish

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This cozy garlic herb roasted butternut squash is a simple, forgiving side dish that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of fall. With caramelized edges and tender, sweet interior, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 pounds / 900g-1.4kg), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (45ml)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (about 1g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (about 1g), crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (about 0.5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (about 3g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (about 1g)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup (15ml)
  • Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
  2. Prepare the squash: Cut off both ends, then cut in half where the narrow neck meets the round bottom. Stand each piece on its flat end and peel off the skin. Cut the neck into 1-inch rounds, then cube them. Scoop out seeds from the round section and cube that part too. Aim for uniform 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces.
  3. Mince the garlic: Smash each clove with the flat side of a knife, then chop finely.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed squash, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Toss until every piece is coated. If using maple syrup, add it now.
  5. Spread the seasoned squash in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not overcrowded.
  6. Roast for 25 minutes on the middle rack.
  7. After 25 minutes, flip each piece with a spatula. Return to the oven and roast for another 15-20 minutes, until golden brown on the edges, caramelized in spots, and easily pierced with a fork (total roasting time: 40-45 minutes).
  8. Let the squash rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For best caramelization, don’t overcrowd the pan and flip halfway through. If squash browns too quickly but isn’t tender, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes. For extra crispiness, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted butternut squash, garlic herb squash, fall side dish, easy roasted vegetables, Thanksgiving side dish, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/cozy-garlic-herb-roasted-butternut-squash-easy-best-side-dish/