As autumn’s crisp air settles in, you may find yourself craving comforting dishes that capture the essence of the season. Look no further than our Maple Bacon Butternut Squash recipe, a delightful fusion of fall flavors that will warm your soul and please your palate. This sophisticated yet simple dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, all enhanced by a subtle maple glaze. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or seeking a cozy weeknight meal, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the best of autumn’s bounty.
Maple Bacon Butternut Squash
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory with this delectable Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe. This dish combines the earthy richness of roasted butternut squash with the smoky crispness of bacon, all elevated by a touch of maple sweetness. To make this Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, simply toss cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden. While it’s baking, crisp up some bacon and prepare a maple syrup drizzle. The result? A mouthwatering side dish that’s sure to impress at any autumn gathering. Learn How to Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and elevate your fall menu with this irresistible Roasted Maple Bacon Butternut Squash creation.
How To Peel, Seed, and Cube Butternut Squash
Mastering the art of preparing butternut squash is essential for creating the perfect Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe. Begin by softening the tough skin in the microwave for 2 minutes. Then, use a sharp Y-shaped peeler to remove the skin efficiently. Halve the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp. Finally, cube the flesh to your desired size. This method ensures your Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash starts with perfectly prepared ingredients. For optimal freshness, store whole squash in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months, or refrigerate cubed squash for up to 3 days. Master these techniques to elevate your Roasted Maple Bacon Butternut Squash dishes.
Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe
Ingredients
For this delectable Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe, you’ll need cubed butternut squash, thick-cut bacon, pure maple syrup, olive oil, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The combination of sweet maple and savory bacon creates a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Instructions
To make this Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, start by cooking the bacon until crispy. Toss the squash in bacon fat and olive oil, then season with spices and maple syrup. Roast the squash until caramelized, then mix in the crispy bacon. This How to Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash guide ensures a perfect autumn side dish every time.
Can I Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare parts of this delicious Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe in advance, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings. To get a head start, roast the butternut squash for 25 minutes, then cool and refrigerate it a day before serving. On the day of, cook and chop the bacon, prepare the maple-cinnamon mixture, and finish the dish by combining everything for the final roasting. This method allows you to save time without compromising on flavor. For an even quicker prep, you can chop the squash ahead of time and store it in a sealed container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instructions for How to Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, and you’ll have a Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash dish in no time.
How To Store Maple Bacon Butternut Squash
Proper Storage Techniques
After savoring your delicious Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe, proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer-term storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags.
Reheating Your Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the preferred method for reheating is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F and spread the squash on a baking sheet. Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the bacon. Alternatively, you can microwave for a quicker option, though the bacon may lose some crispness.
Related Recipes
Maple Roasted Butternut Squash with Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
If you enjoy our Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe, you’ll love this equally delectable variation. This Paleo-friendly dish combines the sweetness of maple-roasted butternut squash with crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts. The addition of walnuts or pecans provides a delightful crunch, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Roasted on a sheet pan for easy preparation, this dish offers a sweet and savory twist on How to Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash. It’s an excellent option for those seeking alternatives to traditional Roasted Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, and can be served as a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish.
Maple Bacon Butternut Squash FAQs
Can I Use Pre-Cut Squash?
Absolutely! Using pre-cut butternut squash is a great time-saver for this Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe. It’s perfect for busy cooks who want to enjoy this delicious fall dish without the hassle of peeling and chopping. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as pre-cut pieces may be smaller and cook faster.
Ingredients & Substitutions
When making this Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, feel free to experiment with ingredients. For a vegetarian version of this Roasted Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, try substituting the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile. You can also swap maple syrup with honey or agave nectar. Remember, the key to mastering How to Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash is balancing sweet and savory flavors.
Nutritional Information
Savor the flavors of fall while nourishing your body with this delectable Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe. This sweet and savory dish provides approximately 174 calories per serving, with 15g of carbohydrates, 3g of protein, and 11g of fat. Rich in essential nutrients, it offers 9310IU of vitamin A, promoting eye health and immune function. The butternut squash base is an excellent source of fiber and potassium, supporting digestive health and blood pressure regulation. When learning how to make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, remember that this roasted maple bacon butternut squash dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins C and K, providing 133% and 170% of your daily value, respectively. Enjoy this nutritious autumn comfort food guilt-free!
Related Recipes
Expand your fall menu with these delightful dishes that complement our Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe. For a heartier meal, try maple roasted butternut squash with Brussels sprouts and bacon. This sheet pan recipe combines the sweetness of butternut squash with crispy bacon and caramelized Brussels sprouts for a perfect autumn side dish.
If you’re looking for more ways to make Maple Bacon Roasted Butternut Squash, consider adding nuts for extra crunch. Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully, enhancing the dish’s texture and flavor profile. For a refreshing twist, incorporate this Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash into a fall-inspired salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. These variations showcase the versatility of How to Make Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, allowing you to savor its delicious flavors in multiple ways.
Tips for Perfect Roasting
Achieve Optimal Texture
To make the perfect Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe, start by roasting the squash cubes at 400°F, flipping halfway through. This ensures they’re tender but not overly caramelized. Dice the squash into small, 1-inch pieces for an ideal flavor distribution in every bite. For that extra crunch, consider adding toasted pecans to your Sweet and Savory Maple Bacon Butternut Squash.
Enhance Flavor Profile
After roasting, sauté the squash in leftover bacon fat to achieve beautifully browned edges. Add maple syrup and fresh chopped sage towards the end for a burst of sweetness and aromatic depth. This step is crucial in creating the perfect Roasted Maple Bacon Butternut Squash. For reheating leftovers of your Maple Bacon Roasted Butternut Squash, use the stovetop instead of the microwave to maintain optimal texture and prevent the bacon fat from congealing.
Conclusion
As you savor this Maple Bacon Butternut Squash dish, you’ll discover a perfect harmony of fall flavors that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. The combination of sweet maple, smoky bacon, and earthy squash creates a memorable culinary experience that captures the essence of autumn. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen. Embrace the flavors of fall and elevate your cooking repertoire with this irresistible Maple Bacon Butternut Squash recipe.
Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set it aside, leaving some bacon fat in the skillet.
- Cook the Squash: Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet with the leftover bacon fat. Toss the squash to coat it evenly and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a little olive oil to help with the cooking process.
- Season the Squash: Sprinkle the cooked squash with cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with maple syrup and toss until the squash is evenly coated with the seasoning and syrup.
- Bake the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Add Bacon and Serve: Once the squash is cooked, remove it from the oven and stir in the crispy bacon. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.