Easy Apple and Butternut Squash Bake for Fall

The crisp autumn air signals the perfect time to warm your kitchen with the inviting aromas of seasonal produce. Today, I'm sharing my favorite apple and butternut squash bake that celebrates fall's most beloved flavors. This comforting dish combines sweet apples with nutty butternut squash for a side dish that pairs wonderfully with any autumn meal.

Why You'll Love This Apple and Butternut Squash Bake

First of all, this apple and butternut squash bake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it alongside roasted chicken for a hearty dinner or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch. Additionally, the natural sweetness from the apples complements the earthy flavors of the butternut squash perfectly.

Furthermore, this recipe requires minimal prep work. Simply chop your ingredients, toss them with seasonings, and let your oven do the rest of the work. As a result, you'll have more time to enjoy the beautiful fall weather while your kitchen fills with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients You'll Need

For this delicious apple and butternut squash bake, gather these seasonal ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds)
• 3 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonderfully)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• ⅓ cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.

2. Peel the butternut squash, remove the seeds, and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Next, core the apples and cut them into similar-sized pieces.

3. In a large bowl, combine the squash and apple pieces. After that, drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup.

4. Sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt over the mixture. Subsequently, toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it in an even layer.

6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle with thyme and pecans.

7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the edges begin to caramelize.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Bake

To ensure your apple and butternut squash bake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose firm apples that hold their shape when cooked. Consequently, your dish will have delightful texture contrast.
• Cut the butternut squash and apples into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
• Don't overcrowd your baking dish. Instead, give the ingredients room to roast rather than steam.
• For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of butter cut into small pieces over the top before the final baking stage.

Seasonal Variations

While this apple and butternut squash bake is already amazing, you might want to try these seasonal variations:

For a savory version, add chopped bacon and reduce the maple syrup. On the other hand, for a sweeter dessert-style dish, increase the maple syrup and top with a simple oat crumble before baking.

Moreover, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or sweet potatoes depending on what's available at your local farmer's market.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile apple and butternut squash bake pairs wonderfully with many main dishes. Serve alongside roasted pork loin or as a side with your Thanksgiving turkey. Alternatively, enjoy it as a vegetarian main course with a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating

After making your apple and butternut squash bake, you'll be happy to know it stores well. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Additionally, this dish freezes beautifully. Therefore, you can make a double batch and freeze half for busy weeknights when you need a quick side dish.

Health Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, this apple and butternut squash bake offers numerous health benefits. Butternut squash provides vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. Meanwhile, apples contribute additional fiber and antioxidants.

Furthermore, the cinnamon and nutmeg not only add flavor but also contain anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, you're serving a dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious.

Conclusion

This easy apple and butternut squash bake captures the essence of fall in one simple, satisfying dish. By combining two seasonal favorites with warm spices and a touch of sweetness, you'll create a versatile side that's sure to become a regular in your autumn recipe rotation.

Try making this comforting dish this weekend and enjoy the wonderful flavors and aromas of the season. Above all, remember that cooking with seasonal produce not only tastes better but also connects us to the natural rhythm of the year.

What's your favorite way to enjoy butternut squash in fall? Let me know in the comments below!