Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! This Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Bacon is not just a recipe—it's a culinary experience that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and caramelized flavors. Imagine tender, golden-brown squash cubes kissed with rich maple syrup and studded with crispy bacon bits that deliver an irresistible crunch in every single bite. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare the butternut squash by washing thoroughly. Using a sharp chef's knife, carefully cut off both ends of the squash. Peel the skin using a vegetable peeler, then cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon.
- Cube the peeled butternut squash into roughly 1-inch uniform pieces to ensure even roasting. Place the cubed squash in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the squash cubes, then add maple syrup. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the squash gently to coat evenly with the oil and maple syrup mixture.
- Chop the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. Scatter the bacon pieces over the seasoned squash cubes and mix gently to distribute.
- Spread the squash and bacon mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the pieces are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Remove from the oven when the squash is tender and caramelized, and the bacon is crisp. The edges of the squash should be golden brown and slightly caramelized.
- Let the roasted squash rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the temperature to slightly cool.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with optional fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm butternut squash with no soft spots for the best texture and flavor.
- Cut squash cubes as uniformly as possible to ensure even roasting.
- Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon for maximum crispiness.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give the squash and bacon pieces room to caramelize.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh thyme before roasting.
- Use parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
- Stir the squash midway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after roasting to allow flavors to meld together.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked almonds or coconut bacon.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture while the bacon remains crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
