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The Ultimate Easy Roasted Butternut Squash: Crispy Edges, Sweet & Savory Seasoning

A white plate piled high with golden brown, caramelized roasted butternut squash cubes, seasoned with herbs.

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This recipe delivers perfectly roasted butternut squash with crispy, caramelized edges and a tender, creamy interior. It uses simple seasoning to achieve a satisfying sweet and savory balance, making it an ideal, quick weeknight squash side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Peel the butternut squash. Cut off the ends, then carefully slice the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon.
  3. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a cutting board. Slice the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes. Uniform size helps the squash roast evenly.
  4. Place the squash cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil. Toss until all pieces are lightly coated.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and ground cinnamon (if using). Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the oiled squash cubes. Toss again until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  6. Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan; use two sheets if necessary to promote crisping.
  7. Roast for 25 to 35 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 15 minutes), use a spatula to flip the cubes so they brown on all sides. The squash is done when the edges are golden brown and caramelized, and the interior is fork-tender.
  8. Remove from the oven and serve immediately as a healthy fall vegetable side or vegetarian side dish.

Notes

  • For extra caramelization, you can toss the cubes with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup along with the oil before seasoning.
  • If you prefer a more savory profile, omit the cinnamon and add 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the spice mix.
  • This oven baked squash cubes recipe works well for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving.

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