Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of fall, then this Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just what you need! This recipe combines the sweet, warm flavors of butternut squash and apples—creating a delightful side dish that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s not just perfect for holiday gatherings but also a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet quick to prepare.

Every bite of this bake reminds me of cozy evenings and family gatherings, making it one of my all-time favorites. The combination of tender squash, juicy apples, and warm spices creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it alongside a festive feast or enjoying it as a simple weeknight treat, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors and comforting textures.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously versatile: Perfect as a side for any meal or even as a light main dish.
• Packed with nutrients: This wholesome recipe is full of vitamins and minerals from the butternut squash and apples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Butternut Squash Apple Bake uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you will need:

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 the best things about this Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how flexible it is! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or even almonds for added crunch.
• Add more fruits: Toss in some diced pears or sliced figs for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an additional layer of warmth.
• Make it vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine to keep it plant-based.

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 cooks evenly and helps to bring out all those lovely flavors right from the beginning!

Step 2: Mix It All Together

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

Add salt and black pepper into your mixture. These simple seasonings enhance the natural sweetness of the squash and apples while balancing out their flavors perfectly.

Step 4: Ready for Baking

Pour the combined mixture into a baking dish that has a lid. Spreading it evenly helps ensure everything cooks properly. Then, place chopped butter throughout the top so that every bite gets that rich flavor.

Step 5: First Bake

Cover your baking dish and pop it into the oven for 15 minutes. This initial baking step gives the butternut squash time to soften up while soaking in all those delicious spices.

Step 6: Add Nuts and Fruits

After 15 minutes, take your dish out and add in the raisins, cranberries, and pecans. Toss everything together gently using tongs or a spoon. Cover again and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is tender and lightly browned.

Step 7: Time to Serve!

Once done baking, remove from the oven and give everything another good stir. Serve warm to enjoy all those delightful flavors coming together!

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Making the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is all about a few key techniques, and I’ve got you covered with these pro tips!

• Choose the right apples: Opting for sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji enhances the overall sweetness of the dish, balancing beautifully with the earthiness of butternut squash.

• Uniform cubing: Cutting your butternut squash and apples into similar-sized cubes ensures even cooking, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.

• Don’t skimp on spices: Adding additional spices like nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor profile even more, giving your bake a warm, cozy feel that’s perfect for fall.

• Experiment with nuts: While pecans and walnuts are great choices, feel free to substitute with almonds or hazelnuts for a different texture and flavor. This adds variety to your dish!

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

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

This delightful dish not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on any holiday table. Here are some ideas for presenting and serving your Butternut Squash Apple Bake!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish, enhancing both its appearance and flavor.

• Coconut whipped cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream on top can provide a creamy contrast to the warm bake, adding a touch of indulgence without overwhelming it.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems add a crispy texture and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash and apples beautifully.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cranberries and almonds offers a protein-packed option that balances out this dish perfectly while adding a refreshing crunch.

• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a lovely nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of your bake.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic can be a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of the Butternut Squash Apple Bake.

By serving these sides alongside your bake, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best parts about Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can easily make this dish ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the Butternut Squash Apple Bake cool completely.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
• Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you’re curious about Butternut Squash Apple Bake, here are some common questions that might help!

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

Absolutely! While gala apples work wonderfully due to their sweetness, feel free to use any sweet apple variety you prefer. Honeycrisp or Fuji apples would also be delightful options.

How should I adjust cooking time for a larger batch of Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

If you’re making a larger batch, consider extending the baking time slightly. Check for doneness by poking the squash with a fork; it should be tender and lightly browned when ready.

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

Yes! This recipe is quite versatile. You can add dried figs, apricots, or even different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on how these additions complement the overall taste!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Butternut Squash Apple Bake as much as I do! It’s not only a heartwarming addition to your holiday table but also a cozy treat for any time of year. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and share your experiences. Happy baking!