Description

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish that blends roasted squash, juicy apples, and warm spices into one irresistible recipe. Light yet comforting, naturally gluten-free, and packed with autumn flavor, it’s a versatile dish that works for holiday feasts, family dinners, or healthy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala), peeled and diced
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Ingredients: Peel, seed, and cube butternut squash. Peel and dice apples into even chunks.
Season: In a bowl, toss squash and apples with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Roast: Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.
Add Toppings: In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle with cranberries or nuts if using.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.

Notes

Cut squash and apples evenly for consistent roasting.
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for flavor contrast.
Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy touch.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—space helps caramelization.
Make ahead by prepping ingredients and roasting just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup

Keywords: Butternut Squash Apple Bake, Thanksgiving Side Dish, Squash and Apple Recipes, Healthy Fall Recipes, Roasted Butternut Squash, Holiday Side Dish, Gluten Free Thanksgiving Recipes, Fall Vegetable Recipes