Hey there, friend! I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite side dishes with you: Maple Bacon Butternut Squash. This recipe is a flavor explosion, combining the sweetness of butternut squash and maple syrup with the salty, smoky goodness of bacon. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Simple and Quick: I know we’re all busy, so I’ve made sure this recipe is as straightforward as possible. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, you can have this dish on the table in no time12.
- Flavorful: The combination of sweet maple syrup, savory bacon, and earthy butternut squash creates a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more24.
- Versatile: This dish is perfect as a side for Thanksgiving, holiday dinners, or even a regular weeknight meal24.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Serving Size: 4-6 people
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (about 2 pounds, pre-cut into cubes for extra speed!)24
- 6-8 slices of bacon1
- 1/4 cup maple syrup1
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or bacon fat, if you’re feeling ambitious!)21
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1
- 1/4 teaspoon salt1
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)2
Instructions
- Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup12.
- Prep the squash: In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the squash is evenly coated12.
- Lay it out: Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps it roast evenly instead of steaming2.
- Roast: Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the squash with a spatula and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, until tender and slightly crispy on the edges2.
- Bacon time: While the squash is roasting, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and chop into small pieces once cooled12.
- Combine: Once the squash is tender, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the chopped bacon over the top2.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh thyme (if using), and serve immediately12.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Feast: This dish is a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving or holiday spread4.
- Weeknight Dinner: Pair it with roasted chicken, pork chops, or a hearty vegetarian dish for a complete and satisfying meal24.
Tips for Customization
- Add some spice: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the squash before roasting5.
- Get nutty: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor13.
- Vary the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist28.
- Brussels sprouts: You can add Brussels sprouts for more flavor3.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?Absolutely! Using pre-cut squash saves a lot of time and effort.Can I make this dish ahead of time?You can roast the squash ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.How do I store leftovers?Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Estimated)
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
Enjoy this delightful Maple Bacon Butternut Squash recipe, and let me know how it turns out for you!
