Rustic Smashed Butternut Squash

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 35 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Rustic Smashed Butternut Squash is the perfect side dish to add to your fall and winter menus. With a hint of garlic and thyme, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Plus, it's a breeze to whip up!

Ingredients for Rustic Smashed Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is the star of the show here. Its natural sweetness and creamy texture are enhanced through roasting. Olive oil helps to caramelize the squash and add depth of flavor. A touch of sea salt and black pepper brings out the squash's natural sweetness. Garlic adds a savory kick, while fresh thyme offers a subtle earthiness. A sprinkle of nutmeg provides warmth and a hint of spice. Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a salty, umami finish. Finally, fresh parsley brightens up the dish with a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your squash is too hard to cut, microwave it for a couple of minutes to soften it slightly.
  • Use a potato masher for a rustic texture, or a food processor if you prefer a smoother consistency.
  • For added flavor, consider roasting the squash with a few sprigs of thyme.
  • If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken or pork. It also complements hearty vegetarian mains such as mushroom risotto or lentil stew. For a simple meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it as instructed, then reheat gently in the oven before serving.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme works as well, just use a bit less since it's more concentrated.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative or Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile.

Rustic Smashed Butternut Squash Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking. While the oven heats up, peel, seed, and cut your butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. A tip here: use a sharp knife to make the process quicker and safer.

In a large bowl, combine the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until the squash is well coated. This ensures that each piece is seasoned uniformly. Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly and develop that lovely caramelized exterior.

Roast the squash for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through. You'll know they're ready when they're fork-tender and have a slight golden color. Once roasted, transfer the squash to a large bowl. Use a potato masher to smash them, but leave some chunks for a rustic texture.

Next, stir in the fresh thyme, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese if you're using it. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Finish by sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant finish to your dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
  • Quick preparation with minimal hands-on time.
  • A wonderful balance of creamy and chunky textures.
  • Perfect as a side dish for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners.
  • Easy to customize with optional ingredients.

Ingredients

1 large butternut squash (about 3 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel, seed, and cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well coated.
4. Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
6. Remove from the oven and transfer the squash to a large bowl.
7. Mash the squash using a potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.
8. Stir in the fresh thyme, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!