Butternut Squash Apple Bake: A Cozy Dish for All Seasons

Introduction
Butternut Squash Apple Bake is an inviting and comforting dish that brings together the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of apples. This delightful bake is not only easy to prepare but also combines warm spices that evoke feelings of autumn, making it perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Expect a dish that’s warm, inviting, and bursting with flavor.

Why Make This Recipe
There are several great reasons to try Butternut Squash Apple Bake. Firstly, it’s an incredible blend of flavors, with the nutty squash pairing beautifully with the sweet apples. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a lovely warmth that makes this dish feel incredibly cozy. This recipe is also versatile—serving it as a side dish can enhance any meal, or it can stand alone as a comforting dessert. Additionally, it’s a nutritious choice, incorporating seasonal produce that’s rich in vitamins and minerals.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Butternut Squash Apple Bake, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Fruit and Vegetable: In a large bowl, combine the diced butternut squash and sliced apples.
3. Mix the Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and a pinch of salt.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the mixture over the butternut squash and apples. Toss everything together until the squash and apples are well coated.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the coated mixture evenly in a baking dish.
6. Add Nuts: If you are using nuts, sprinkle them over the top for added crunch.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
8. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake
This dish is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a side dish with savory meat or roasted dishes. If you prefer it as a dessert, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Butternut Squash Apple Bake
To keep your Butternut Squash Apple Bake fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extended storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Tips to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.
• Adjust the spice levels by adding more cinnamon or even a pinch of ginger if you like.
• For a dairy-free option, replace butter with coconut oil.

Variations
You can customize this recipe by including other ingredients. For instance, try adding dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness. You can also substitute the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version or add in a handful of raisins for extra texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
   Yes! Frozen butternut squash can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going directly from the fridge to the oven.

3. What can I serve with Butternut Squash Apple Bake?
   It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, but it can also be served alongside a hearty salad for a lighter meal.

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to enjoy your cozy and delicious Butternut Squash Apple Bake!

Butternut Squash Apple Bake

A cozy dish that combines the earthy sweetness of butternut squash and tart apples, enhanced with warm spices for a delightful flavor.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dessert, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 whole butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 whole apples, peeled and sliced Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for best flavor.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Adjust to taste.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted Can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts (optional) Can be replaced with seeds for a nut-free option.
• to taste Salt

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced butternut squash and sliced apples.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the mixture over the butternut squash and apples. Toss everything together until the squash and apples are well coated.
5. Spread the coated mixture evenly in a baking dish.
6. If using, sprinkle nuts over the top for added crunch.
7. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Best served warm. Pairs well with savory meats or as a dessert with ice cream. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.