These roasted butternut squash slices are coated in a delicious blend of garlic butter and parmesan, creating a rich, savory flavor with a hint of freshness from the sage and a touch of brightness from the lemon juice. Golden and tender, they make an inviting addition to any table, especially during the cooler months. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the robust flavors of garlic and parmesan. The result is a mouthwatering side dish that complements any main course, while also standing out as a dish worth savoring on its own. Ideal for anyone looking to elevate their fall and winter meals with something both simple and impressive.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh sage leaves (about 6–8)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF (210ºC).
- Cut the neck off the butternut squash, set the base aside, and peel. Slice the neck into eight 1/2-inch rounds.
- Arrange the squash slices in a lightly oiled baking pan. Add smashed garlic and sage leaves around them.
- Mix olive oil and melted butter, then drizzle over the squash slices. Sprinkle each slice with parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt and black pepper.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, until the squash is tender and edges are golden.
- Drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Transfer to a platter with garlic and sage. Add more salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Charm of Baked Garlic Butter Parmesan Butternut Squash
When it comes to capturing the essence of fall, few ingredients are as beloved as butternut squash. This golden-hued vegetable, with its creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor, is the perfect candidate for roasting. Baked with garlic butter and parmesan, this butternut squash recipe combines the warm flavors of autumn with a savory richness that elevates it from a simple vegetable side to a gourmet experience. This recipe has been a staple on dinner tables during the colder months, valued for its comforting qualities and versatility.
The Origins and Culinary Significance of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash belongs to the winter squash family and is widely popular in North America. Its cultivation dates back thousands of years, with roots in indigenous American agriculture. The squash’s adaptability and long storage life made it a valuable food source, as it could be kept throughout the winter. With time, butternut squash became more than just a storage staple and transformed into a culinary favorite, appreciated for its flavor and texture in a variety of recipes.
Baked garlic butter parmesan butternut squash is one of the most accessible and delicious ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Roasting enhances its natural sweetness, while the garlic butter adds a savory depth, complemented by the sharp, nutty flavor of parmesan cheese. This recipe isn’t only about delicious flavors; it also offers an opportunity to appreciate a historical ingredient in a modern, delightful way.
Health Benefits of Butternut Squash and Key Ingredients
This dish is a feast for the senses, but it’s also packed with nutrients and health benefits:
- Butternut Squash: High in vitamins A and C, butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse. Vitamin A is essential for eye health, skin regeneration, and immune support. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and helps to support the immune system, which is especially beneficial during the colder months. Butternut squash is also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
- Garlic: Often touted as a superfood, garlic has been associated with various health benefits, including boosting immunity, reducing blood pressure, and possessing anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic is known for its distinct flavor that mellows and sweetens when roasted, enhancing the dish’s overall taste profile.
- Olive Oil and Butter: While butter offers a rich, creamy taste, olive oil adds monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The combination in this recipe provides a balanced source of fats, which help to increase the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A and E from the butternut squash.
- Parmesan Cheese: Known for its savory umami flavor, parmesan cheese adds depth to the dish without overwhelming the other ingredients. Parmesan is also relatively low in lactose and rich in protein, calcium, and other essential minerals, supporting bone health and muscle function.
- Fresh Sage and Lemon Juice: Sage is an aromatic herb with antimicrobial properties that has been used in traditional medicine to soothe digestive issues. Its earthiness pairs well with the sweetness of butternut squash. Lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness to the dish and supports digestion, giving the final taste a balanced finish.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
1. Flavor Complexity and Balance
The combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan with butternut squash creates a savory, aromatic experience that is both complex and satisfying. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, which is complemented by the rich, nutty flavor of parmesan and the aromatic quality of fresh sage. A final drizzle of lemon juice brightens the dish, preventing it from feeling overly heavy.
2. Ease of Preparation
This recipe is both sophisticated and easy to prepare. With minimal preparation and straightforward ingredients, it’s a practical choice for busy evenings and special occasions alike. It takes under 10 minutes to prep, making it an ideal option for those who want a high-quality dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.
3. Aesthetic Appeal
Visually, the dish is stunning. The bright orange squash slices, contrasted with the golden parmesan crust and dotted with green sage leaves, create a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for entertaining. The dish fits right in on a holiday table, adding warmth and color to the meal setting.
4. Perfect for Various Diets
This recipe can cater to different dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. By omitting the butter or substituting a plant-based butter alternative, it can also be adapted for vegans and those avoiding dairy.
How to Serve and Pair Baked Garlic Butter Parmesan Butternut Squash
This roasted butternut squash is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to serve it:
- As a Side Dish: It’s an excellent companion to roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork. The sweetness of the squash balances the savory flavors of roasted or grilled proteins.
- In Grain Bowls or Salads: Chop the roasted squash into cubes and add it to a grain bowl with quinoa or farro, leafy greens, nuts, and a light dressing. It also works well as a topping for fall-themed salads with cranberries, pecans, and a balsamic glaze.
- As Part of a Vegan Meal: Paired with hearty greens, nuts, and whole grains, this dish can be a delicious component of a plant-based meal. Its flavors also pair well with lentils, chickpeas, and roasted root vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- Choosing the Right Squash: Look for a butternut squash with a smooth skin and no blemishes. A heavier squash generally indicates a denser, creamier texture.
- Achieving the Perfect Texture: Cut the squash into uniform slices to ensure even cooking. This will also help the parmesan to crisp up on each piece, providing a delightful contrast to the soft interior.
- Seasoning Tips: While this recipe calls for salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and sage, feel free to experiment. Rosemary or thyme can be used as substitutes, adding a slightly different herbal note.
- Adding a Twist: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the squash before baking. If you prefer a sweeter profile, drizzle a touch of maple syrup along with the olive oil and butter mixture.
- Storage and Reheating: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, use an oven or skillet to maintain the crispness of the parmesan.
Why You Should Add This Recipe to Your Menu
This baked garlic butter parmesan butternut squash is a dish that captures the essence of fall comfort food. It’s easy to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavors that your guests will savor. With its rich nutritional profile, this dish doesn’t just taste good – it’s also good for you. The combination of flavors and textures provides a multi-sensory experience that elevates a simple vegetable into a culinary masterpiece.
Conclusion
Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or looking for a cozy weeknight side dish, this recipe is an excellent addition to any menu. It allows you to enjoy the natural goodness of butternut squash in a way that’s both health-conscious and indulgent.This baked garlic butter parmesan butternut squash recipe has everything you could want in a fall dish: it’s flavorful, nutritious, visually appealing, and easy to make. Adding it to your recipe collection means you’re bringing a touch of culinary magic to your table – one that celebrates the season and the rich bounty it offers.
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Baked Garlic Butter Parmesan Butternut Squash
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
These roasted butternut squash slices are coated in a delicious blend of garlic butter and parmesan, creating a rich, savory flavor with a hint of freshness from the sage and a touch of brightness from the lemon juice. Golden and tender, they make an inviting addition to any table, especially during the cooler months. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the robust flavors of garlic and parmesan. The result is a mouthwatering side dish that complements any main course, while also standing out as a dish worth savoring on its own. Ideal for anyone looking to elevate their fall and winter meals with something both simple and impressive.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh sage leaves (about 6-8)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF (210ºC).
- Cut the neck off the butternut squash, set the base aside, and peel. Slice the neck into eight 1/2-inch rounds.
- Arrange the squash slices in a lightly oiled baking pan. Add smashed garlic and sage leaves around them.
- Mix olive oil and melted butter, then drizzle over the squash slices. Sprinkle each slice with parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt and black pepper.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, until the squash is tender and edges are golden.
- Drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Transfer to a platter with garlic and sage. Add more salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 180 kcal
