Butternut Squash Apple Bake: A Delicious Fall Recipe

Butternut Squash Apple Bake: Prepare to be amazed by this symphony of autumnal flavors! Imagine the creamy sweetness of butternut squash mingling with the tartness of crisp apples, all baked to golden perfection with a hint of warm spice. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of the season on a plate.

While the exact origins of combining butternut squash and apples in a baked dish are somewhat obscure, the individual ingredients boast rich histories. Butternut squash, a relative newcomer to the squash family, gained popularity in the early 20th century. Apples, on the other hand, have been cultivated for millennia, holding a special place in folklore and culinary traditions across numerous cultures. Combining these two ingredients feels like a natural evolution, a harmonious blend of New World and Old World flavors.

So, why is this Butternut Squash Apple Bake destined to become a family favorite? It’s simple: the taste and texture are irresistible. The squash provides a velvety smooth base, while the apples offer a delightful contrast with their slightly firm bite. The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a touch of maple syrup elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Beyond the incredible flavor, this bake is incredibly convenient. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping side for your Thanksgiving feast or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to deliver!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Preparing the Butternut Squash and Apples:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our stars: the butternut squash and apples. This is probably the most time-consuming part, but trust me, it’s worth it!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is nice and hot when we’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the butternut squash. Peel the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. This can be a bit tricky, so be careful! Once peeled, cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Then, cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
3. Prepare the apples. Core the apples and cut them into 1-inch cubes, similar in size to the squash. I like to use Honeycrisp or Gala apples because they hold their shape well during baking and have a lovely sweetness, but feel free to use your favorite baking apple.
4. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Dice the yellow onion into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely. These will add a savory depth of flavor to our bake.

Sautéing the Aromatics:

Next, we’re going to sauté the onion and garlic to release their flavors. This step adds a wonderful aromatic base to the dish.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients later.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. You want the onion to become translucent and slightly golden.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Combining and Seasoning:

Now, it’s time to bring all the ingredients together and season them to perfection. This is where the magic happens!

1. Add the cubed butternut squash and apples to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Toss everything together to combine.
2. Add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans or walnuts, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, dried sage, dried thyme, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the skillet. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the spices and maple syrup.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste the mixture and adjust as needed. Remember, the flavors will intensify during baking.

Baking the Butternut Squash Apple Bake:

Finally, we’re ready to bake our masterpiece! The oven will transform the raw ingredients into a tender, flavorful, and comforting dish.

1. Transfer the mixture from the skillet to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the mixture in an even layer.
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to steam the vegetables and prevent them from drying out.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender and slightly caramelized. The apples should also be tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Optional: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will add a salty and savory element to the dish.

Serving and Enjoying:

Once the bake is done, let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. This dish is fantastic on its own, but it also makes a wonderful side dish for roasted chicken, pork, or even a vegetarian main course.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm as a side dish or main course.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, such as sage or thyme.
• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Add more vegetables: Consider adding other root vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips.
• Use different nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans all work well in this recipe.
• Make it vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

I hope you enjoy this Butternut Squash Apple Bake as much as I do! It’s a perfect dish for fall and winter, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it perfectly balances the sweetness of the apples and maple syrup with the earthy notes of the butternut squash, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to be vegan, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs.

Why is this Butternut Squash Apple Bake a must-try? Because it’s delicious, simple, and adaptable! It’s the perfect way to showcase seasonal produce and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills (even if it only took you a few minutes to prepare!).

Now, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations! This bake is fantastic served warm as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a hearty vegetarian main course like lentil loaf. For a truly decadent experience, try topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream while it’s still warm. The contrast of temperatures and textures is simply divine!

Looking for ways to customize this recipe? Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples would all work beautifully. You could also add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the squash mixture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for a more complex flavor profile.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Breakfast Bake: Enjoy leftovers cold for breakfast, or reheat and top with a fried egg for a savory-sweet start to your day.
• Dessert Delight: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant dessert.
• Holiday Hero: This bake is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of this Butternut Squash Apple Bake for yourself. It’s a dish that I make time and time again, and it never fails to impress. I’m confident that it will become a staple in your kitchen too.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how you adapted the recipe, what variations you tried, and what your family and friends thought. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I can’t wait to see your creations!

Happy baking!

---