Description
Looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy holiday side dish? This Thanksgiving Butternut Squash recipe is a perfect addition to your festive spread. Roasted butternut squash caramelized in maple syrup and warm spices, tossed with toasted pecans, and finished with fresh herbs—this easy recipe is as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re planning quick breakfast sides, healthy snack platters, or dinner ideas that wow guests, this dish checks all the boxes for food ideas that are comforting and seasonally perfect.
Ingredients
1 large butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3/4 cup pecan halves
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into uniform 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd.
5. Roast for 25 minutes, then remove the tray and add the pecans. Gently toss and return to the oven.
6. Roast for another 10–15 minutes until the squash is tender and golden, and the pecans are toasted.
7. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with chopped rosemary or thyme, and serve warm.
Notes
Use fresh squash that feels heavy for its size for the best flavor and texture.
Add dried cranberries or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a festive twist.
Roast in a single layer—overcrowding will steam the squash instead of caramelizing it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving, butternut squash, holiday side dish, easy recipe, fall food ideas