Butternut Squash Apple Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly combines sweet and savory elements. It’s easy to prepare and makes a wonderful side or dessert for any occasion. The blend of warm spices and tender fruits creates a cozy, delicious treat.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 3 medium apples, cored and sliced (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and sliced apples. Toss to distribute evenly.
4. Step 4: Pour in the melted butter and sprinkle the brown sugar over the squash and apples.
5. Step 5: Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix thoroughly to coat the squash and apples.
6. Step 6: If using, fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
7. Step 7: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Step 8: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to steam the squash and apples.
9. Step 9: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the squash is tender and the top is lightly caramelized.
10. Step 10: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts for varied texture.
• Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy brightness that complements the fall flavors.
• If you prefer a softer texture, peel the apples before slicing.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm. This dish also freezes well; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash for this bake?

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn or kabocha squash, but cooking times may vary slightly depending on the density of the squash.

How do I prevent the apples from turning brown before baking?

Toss the sliced apples in a little lemon juice before combining them with the squash to keep them from browning and to add a subtle tang.

Butternut Squash Apple Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.5 from 52 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a delightful and wholesome dish that combines the natural sweetness of apples and butternut squash with warm spices and a subtle caramelized finish. Perfect as a comforting side or a healthy dessert, this recipe is easy to prepare and bakes to tender, flavorful perfection.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 3 medium apples, cored and sliced (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the dish evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and to help with easy cleanup.
3. Mix the Squash and Apples: In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and sliced apples, tossing them thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Add the Sweetener: Pour the melted butter over the squash and apples, then sprinkle with brown sugar (or maple syrup if using) to add sweetness and moisture.
5. Season the Mixture: Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the bowl, mixing thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with aromatic spices and seasoning.
6. Incorporate Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in chopped pecans or walnuts and raisins or dried cranberries to add texture and bursts of additional flavor to the bake.
7. Transfer to Bake: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
8. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the squash and apples to steam and cook through gently.
9. Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step helps the top caramelize lightly and ensures the squash becomes tender.
10. Cool and Serve: After removing from the oven, let the bake cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it ready to serve warm.

Notes

• For a healthier option, substitute brown sugar with maple syrup but reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess sweetness.
• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples such as Fuji and Granny Smith for balanced flavor.
• Covering with foil during initial baking helps steam the ingredients, preventing dryness.
• If you desire a crunchier topping, sprinkle extra chopped nuts before the final uncovered baking step.
• This dish can be served as a side dish for fall meals or as a warm dessert alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Butternut squash bake, apple and squash casserole, autumn side dish, baked apple and squash, healthy baked dish, vegetarian fall recipe