Maple Bacon Butternut Squash Recipe
Savor the flavors of fall with this Maple Bacon Butternut Squash, a perfect blend of sweet roasted squash, crispy bacon, and a touch of maple syrup. Ideal for holiday meals or cozy weeknight dinners, this versatile dish brings warmth and comfort to your table. Ready to create a crowd-pleasing side dish that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this delightful 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.
Notes
Presentation Tips: Serve in a large bowl or platter to showcase the beautiful autumn colors. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little more maple syrup over the top.