Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash! This dish is a beautiful blend of sweet and savory flavors, where the caramelized edges of the squash meet the warm, aromatic notes of cinnamon and the rich depth of bourbon. It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your home with an incredible aroma but also makes for a stunning side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or even as a star on a vegetarian table. Trust me, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy weeknight side, this dish is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table!
Ingredients for Bourbon and Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a delicious dish that will elevate any meal. You’ll need:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking and that lovely caramelization.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil to coat the squash, adding richness and helping the spices adhere.
- 1/4 cup bourbon, which infuses a unique depth of flavor. Choose a bourbon you enjoy sipping!
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for that warm, comforting spice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar to enhance the natural sweetness and contribute to the caramelization process.
- Salt and pepper to taste; don’t skip these as they balance the sweetness beautifully.
How to Prepare Bourbon and Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash
Preparing bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash is a breeze, and it all starts with a few simple steps to ensure you get that perfect flavor and texture!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because a hot oven helps the squash roast evenly, giving you those beautifully caramelized edges that are so irresistible. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the cubed butternut squash, olive oil, bourbon, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands here to ensure every piece of squash gets a lovely coat of that flavorful mixture. It’s messy but oh-so-satisfying! Make sure the squash is evenly coated; this is where the magic happens.
Roast the Squash
Spread the coated squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop it into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, give it a good stir to ensure even roasting. You’ll know it’s done when the squash is tender and caramelized—just poke it with a fork to check for that delightful softness!
Serving Suggestions
Once your squash is out of the oven and slightly cooled, it’s time to serve! I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. This roasted squash pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or pork, or you can keep it vegetarian and toss it into a salad for an added flavor boost. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
When you whip up this bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash, you’re not just treating your taste buds but also getting a nutritious side! On average, a serving (about 1 cup) contains roughly 180 calories, 7g of fat, 2g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Of course, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust as needed. Enjoy this hearty dish guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously unique flavor combination of bourbon and cinnamon that elevates the natural sweetness of butternut squash.
- Super easy to prepare with minimal ingredients—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Versatile as a side dish, it pairs beautifully with meats or can stand alone in vegetarian meals.
- Wholesome and nutritious, making it a guilt-free addition to your table.
Tips for Success
To really nail this bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash, here are a few pro tips that I swear by! First, make sure you choose a ripe butternut squash; it should feel heavy for its size and have a smooth, firm skin. When peeling, a good vegetable peeler can make all the difference—go for one with a comfortable grip! Also, don’t skip on the seasoning; the salt and pepper balance the sweetness beautifully, so season generously. For roasting, ensure the squash is spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet—crowding will lead to steaming instead of roasting. Lastly, keep an eye on it in the oven; every oven is a little different, so adjust the time as needed for that perfect caramelization. Happy cooking!
Variations on Bourbon and Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash! For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix—it’s a delightful contrast to the sweetness. You could also switch things up by incorporating other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots; just be sure to cut them to a similar size for even roasting. Want to deepen the flavor even more? A dash of nutmeg or allspice will complement the cinnamon beautifully. For a touch of acidity, a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving can brighten everything up. Play around and find your favorite combination!
FAQ Section
Can I store leftovers? Absolutely! You can store any leftover bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up!
How do I reheat it? Reheating is super simple! Just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave—just be careful not to overdo it, as you want to keep that lovely texture!
Can I substitute the bourbon? If you’d prefer not to use bourbon, a splash of apple cider or maple syrup can add a nice sweetness, though you’ll miss the depth of the bourbon flavor. Just keep the cinnamon and brown sugar for that perfect balance!
What if I don’t have ground cinnamon? No worries! You could use cinnamon sticks during roasting for a milder flavor or even try pumpkin pie spice for a different twist.
For more delicious recipes, check out this butternut squash mac and cheese recipe for a creamy twist!
Additionally, if you’re interested in the health benefits of butternut squash, you can read more here.
Print
Bourbon and Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory dish featuring butternut squash roasted with bourbon and cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, bourbon, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh cinnamon for optimal flavor.
- For added complexity, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg.
- Pair with a protein for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: bourbon and cinnamon roasted butternut squash
