Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that captures the essence of fall, then this Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies to our holiday gatherings. The delightful combination of sweet butternut squash and crisp apples creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive celebrations. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast or enjoying it as a cozy dinner on its own, this bake is always a hit. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking? Pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory combination of flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Wholesome: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Butternut Squash Apple Bake. These are things you can easily find at your local grocery store, making it super convenient to whip up this delightful dish!

For the Bake

• 1 1/2 pounds peeled (seeded, and small cubed butternut squash)
• 2 gala apples (peeled, cored and diced)
• 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 Butternut Squash Apple Bake is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Switch Up the Nuts: Try using almonds or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Add Some Spice: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Go Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to make it plant-based.
• Incorporate Other Fruits: Toss in pears or peaches for additional sweetness and texture.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This step ensures that your bake cooks evenly and reaches that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mix well until everything is nicely coated. This blend of flavors will create a beautiful base for our bake.

Step 3: Season It Up

Add in the salt and pepper, mixing again until combined. This seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and apples while adding depth to the overall flavor.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid. Spread it out evenly so that everything cooks uniformly.

Step 5: Add Butter

Dot your chopped butter throughout the mixture before covering it up. The melting butter adds richness and helps everything caramelize beautifully as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake and Stir

Cover your dish and bake for 15 minutes. Afterward, add in those delicious raisins, cranberries, and pecans, tossing everything together gently before covering again. Return it to the oven for another 15 minutes until tender and lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once done baking, give everything a good stir before serving warm. The final result is a comforting side dish that’s bursting with fall flavors—perfect for sharing with friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Creating the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you make it even better!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp. Their natural sweetness enhances the dish and balances the earthiness of butternut squash.

• Cut evenly: Ensure that your butternut squash and apples are cubed evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate, resulting in tender bites throughout the dish.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix in other spices like nutmeg or allspice for added depth. These warm spices complement the fall flavors beautifully and give your bake a unique twist.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together even more. Plus, it makes serving easier!

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, making your holiday meal prep a breeze.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

This cozy dish is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some pure maple syrup over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy texture and slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balance out the sweetness of the Butternut Squash Apple Bake perfectly.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and an elegant touch that complements this comforting dish beautifully.
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide an additional layer of warmth and sweetness, making your meal feel even more festive.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Butternut Squash Apple Bake will not only taste amazing but look beautiful on your table too! Enjoy sharing this heartwarming dish with friends and family during your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only delightful to serve fresh, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and store it for later enjoyment, making your holiday feasts that much easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Let the Butternut Squash Apple Bake cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or use a heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or heat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Butternut Squash Apple Bake without butter?

Yes! You can substitute with a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

What type of apples work best in Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Gala apples are great, but you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness. Choose any sweet apple of your preference!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to include fruits like pears or even dried apricots for an extra twist on flavor and texture.

How do I know when my Butternut Squash Apple Bake is done?

The dish is ready when the butternut squash is tender and lightly browned. You can check with a fork—if it easily pierces through, it’s perfect!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Butternut Squash Apple Bake as heartwarming and delicious as I do! It’s a lovely way to celebrate fall flavors at your table while also being simple enough for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy preparing it, sharing it with loved ones, and making joyful memories around your table. Happy cooking!