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Crispy Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries

Crispy Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries - featured image
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A stress-free, holiday-perfect side dish featuring caramelized butternut squash cubes tossed with maple syrup, dried cranberries, and aromatic spices for a sweet, savory, and crispy finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or sage, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash and dry the butternut squash. Cut off the top and bottom, peel the skin, remove seeds, and dice the flesh into uniform 1-inch cubes.
  3. Place squash cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and melted butter, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Spread squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not touching to allow for crispiness. Roast for 20 minutes.
  5. Remove pan from oven, sprinkle dried cranberries over the squash, and gently toss to redistribute oil. Return to oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes.
  6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, drizzle maple syrup over the squash. Watch closely to prevent burning. Squash is done when tender when pierced with a fork and edges are browned.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes to allow glaze to set.
  8. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley or sage. Serve warm.

Notes

Ensure squash cubes are dry before tossing in oil to promote browning. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this causes steaming instead of roasting. Add maple syrup at the end to prevent burning. For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash, roasted vegetables, holiday side dish, maple syrup, cranberries, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy dinner, Thanksgiving side

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