Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds

There’s something incredibly satisfying about roasting vegetables. The way the heat transforms them, bringing out their natural sweetness and creating those irresistible caramelized edges, is nothing short of magical. As someone who loves both cooking and eating, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are simple yet bursting with flavor. That’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe for Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds. It’s a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday table.

Butternut squash is one of my favorite ingredients to work with. It’s versatile, nutritious, and has a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with so many seasonings. In this recipe, we’re keeping things simple by slicing the squash into rounds, seasoning them with a few pantry staples, and roasting them to perfection. The result is a dish that’s tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Butternut squash: This is the star of the dish. Butternut squash is a winter squash with a sweet, nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture when cooked. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.

Olive oil: A good-quality olive oil is essential for roasting. It helps the squash caramelize beautifully and adds a subtle richness to the dish.

Garlic powder: Garlic powder is a convenient way to add a savory, aromatic flavor to the squash without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic.

Paprika: Paprika adds a mild smokiness and a touch of warmth to the dish. It also gives the squash a lovely golden color.

Salt and black pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the squash and balance its sweetness.

Fresh thyme (optional): If you have fresh thyme on hand, it’s a wonderful addition. Its earthy, slightly floral flavor complements the squash perfectly.

Ingredients List

1 medium butternut squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the squash will roast evenly and develop those delicious caramelized edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top and bottom of the butternut squash. Peel the squash with a vegetable peeler, then cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard them. Slice the squash into 1/2-inch-thick rounds.

Step 3: Season the Squash

In a large bowl, toss the squash rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each round is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the squash rounds in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. This allows them to roast evenly and get crispy.

Step 5: Roast the Squash

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through. The squash is done when it’s tender and golden brown around the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the squash is out of the oven, garnish it with fresh thyme sprigs if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or a healthy snack.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Choose the right squash: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, unblemished skin.
Uniform slices: Try to cut the squash rounds into even thicknesses so they cook at the same rate.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Giving the squash rounds enough space on the baking sheet ensures they’ll crisp up nicely.
Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add other spices like cumin, chili powder, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Make it ahead: You can peel and slice the squash a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to roast.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! Acorn squash or delicata squash would work well too. Just adjust the roasting time as needed.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just double-check that your spices and olive oil are vegan-certified if you’re strict about it.

What can I serve with roasted butternut squash rounds?
They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple green salad. They’re also great on their own as a snack or appetizer.

Why is my squash not crispy?
If your squash isn’t crispy, it might be because the rounds were too crowded on the baking sheet or the oven temperature was too low. Make sure to spread them out and roast at 400°F for the best results.

Enjoy making and savoring this delightful dish!