Honey Glazed Butternut Squash

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 17 min
🍽 Serves: 4
Be the First to Review!

Honey Glazed Butternut Squash is a delightful twist on a classic fall vegetable, bringing a sweet and savory balance perfect for any meal. This recipe elevates the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a luscious honey glaze and a touch of cinnamon.

Ingredients for Honey Glazed Butternut Squash

Butternut squash forms the heart of this dish, offering a naturally sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the honey glaze. Olive oil is used to sauté the squash, providing a mild flavor and helping to caramelize its edges. Honey adds a sweet depth and helps to create a sticky glaze that coats each cube beautifully. A dash of cinnamon enhances the sweetness and gives a warm, cozy aroma. Salt and black pepper balance the sweetness with just the right amount of seasoning. Pecans bring a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the soft texture of the squash. Finally, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness, rounding out the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your squash is too firm, cover the skillet for a minute or two to trap steam and help it cook faster.
  • For a more intense flavor, toast the pecans separately before adding them to the dish.
  • Use pre-cut squash if you're short on time — it’s a great time saver!

Serving Suggestions

This Honey Glazed Butternut Squash pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or a creamy risotto. It’s also an excellent addition to a holiday feast, complementing turkey or ham beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of squash?
Yes, acorn squash or even sweet potatoes can work as a substitute, though cooking times may vary.
Is there a substitute for honey?
Maple syrup is a great alternative that will give a slightly different, but equally delicious, flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Honey Glazed Butternut Squash Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the cubed butternut squash. Let it sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. You'll want to see some browning on the edges, which indicates caramelization. Next, drizzle in the honey, followed by a sprinkle of cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the squash is evenly coated with this sweet and spicy mixture.

Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for the squash to be tender but not mushy, with a caramelized glaze. Toss in the pecans and cook for an additional 2 minutes, just enough to toast them slightly and bring out their flavor. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a moment. Before serving, garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy weeknights.
  • A beautiful side dish that adds vibrant color to your table.
  • Combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors for a complex taste experience.
  • Versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes.

Ingredients

2 lbs butternut squash, cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp honey
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped pecans
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed butternut squash and sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in honey, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the squash is evenly coated.
4. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Add chopped pecans and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!