Description

Sweet, savory, and bursting with seasonal flavor, this spiced roasted butternut squash with pecans and cranberries is the perfect side dish for any occasion. Butternut squash is caramelized with brown sugar and cinnamon, while toasted pecans add crunch, and dried cranberries provide a pop of tartness. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to wow your family and guests.

Ingredients

1 large butternut squash (or 2 small, about 4–5 cups), peeled and cubed into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
⅓ cup dried cranberries

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Spice Mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Coat the Butternut Squash

Add the cubed butternut squash to the bowl with the spiced butter mixture.
Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.

4. Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between the pieces to allow for even caramelization.
Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is tender and the edges are golden brown.

5. Add Pecans and Cranberries

In the final 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the squash on the baking sheet. The heat will lightly toast the pecans, enhancing their nutty flavor.
Once removed from the oven, immediately scatter the dried cranberries over the warm squash, letting them soften slightly.

6. Serve Warm

Transfer the roasted squash, pecans, and cranberries to a serving dish.
Gently mix to distribute the toppings evenly and serve warm.

Notes

Make It Ahead: Roast the squash up to one day in advance, then reheat in the oven before serving. Add the pecans and cranberries just before serving to maintain their texture.
Customizable Sweetness: For a sweeter dish, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before roasting.
Pecans Substitute: Swap pecans for walnuts, slivered almonds, or pumpkin seeds if desired.
Spice Adjustments: Omit the cayenne if you prefer a milder flavor, or increase it for a spicier kick.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American