Thanksgiving Butternut Squash

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Thanksgiving Butternut Squash is the kind of dish that makes your guests pause between bites and ask, “What is in this? This is amazing.” Roasted to perfection, naturally sweet, and just enough savory spice to round it out, this side dish is a celebration of fall in every forkful. The caramelized edges, tender bite, and deep color make it look just as festive as it tastes.

This recipe fits seamlessly into any Thanksgiving spread. Whether you’re going for traditional turkey-and-stuffing or trying new flavors this year, butternut squash brings a cozy, vibrant element to the table. Plus, it’s a breeze to prep ahead and reheat, making your holiday cooking just a bit easier.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Butternut Squash

It hits the sweet-savory balance so well. With a light glaze of maple or brown sugar, and a dash of warming spices, this roasted squash offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture without overpowering your main dish. It complements everything from roast meats to meatless mains. And if you’re trying to eat a little lighter, this dish delivers flavor without being heavy.

Whether you serve it simply roasted or jazz it up with toasted pecans and cranberries, you’ll love how flexible and impressive it is with minimal effort. You can even make it vegan by swapping butter for olive oil.

What Kind of Butternut Squash Should I Use?

Look for medium-sized, firm butternut squash with smooth, unblemished skin. You want it to feel heavy for its size, which means it’s dense and full of flavor. The darker the color, the riper and sweeter the squash. If you’re in a pinch, pre-cubed squash from the store works too—just make sure the pieces are uniform for even roasting.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is the star of this dish, but every ingredient plays an important role in drawing out its best flavor and texture.

• Butternut squash
• Olive oil
• Maple syrup or brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh thyme

The butternut squash gives the dish its sweet, nutty base and becomes beautifully tender when roasted. A drizzle of olive oil helps the edges caramelize while keeping the cubes moist inside. Maple syrup or brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness and gives a glossy finish. A pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth. Seasoning with salt and black pepper brings balance, and finishing with a sprinkle of fresh thyme adds an herby brightness that keeps things fresh.

How To Make the Thanksgiving Butternut Squash

Step 1: Prep the Squash

Peel and cube your butternut squash into even 1-inch pieces. If using pre-cut squash, double-check that the pieces are similar in size to ensure even roasting.

Step 2: Season Generously

In a large bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, maple syrup (or brown sugar), cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well so every piece is coated.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You want edges to be slightly browned and centers fork-tender.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Thyme

Right before serving, sprinkle with fresh thyme. If you’re feeling extra festive, you can also toss in dried cranberries or chopped pecans for a holiday touch.

How to Serve and Store Thanksgiving Butternut Squash

This dish is best served warm straight from the oven, but it reheats wonderfully. You can make it a day ahead and rewarm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

This recipe serves about 6 people as a side dish, but you can easily double it for a larger gathering.

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Butternut Squash?

Herb-Roasted Turkey

The classic main that never fails. The squash adds sweet contrast to the savory turkey.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy potatoes with the slight spice from the squash make the ultimate comfort food duo.

Cranberry Sauce

Tart and bright, cranberry sauce amplifies the sweet notes in the squash.

Green Bean Casserole

A crunchy, creamy side that balances the soft texture of the roasted squash.

Cornbread Stuffing

Savory stuffing gets a lovely boost from the warm spices and sweetness of the squash.

Glazed Carrots

Double down on the sweetness and color with another orange-hued favorite.

Baked Ham

For those skipping turkey, baked ham pairs beautifully with maple-roasted squash.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The caramelized, crispy edges of Brussels sprouts and squash go hand-in-hand for texture lovers.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re all about warm, hearty side dishes that bring people back for seconds, you’ll enjoy these as well:

• Cheesy Brussels Sprout Bake for a creamy, indulgent green veggie option.
• Loaded Scalloped Potatoes if you’re craving something rich and comforting.
• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf to bring a buttery, cheesy balance to your plate.
• Bacon Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey as your show-stopping centerpiece.
• Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers for a crispy bite-sized addition to your table.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest Thanksgiving board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments if you tried it with pecans or cranberries! Did you use maple syrup or brown sugar? I’d love to hear your twist on it.

Explore beautifully curated holiday side dishes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite crowd-pleaser.

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