There’s something so comforting about the warm, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash, don’t you think? This Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and it never fails to impress. I first discovered this gem during a chilly fall evening, searching for a side dish that would bring warmth to my family dinner. I whipped it up, and the aroma of roasting squash enveloped my kitchen, luring my family into the dining room like moths to a flame. Everyone circled around, eager to dig in, and let me tell you—these rounds disappeared faster than I could say “pass the cheese!”
Each bite is a delightful combination of sweetness from the squash and a savory kick from the blue cheese and paprika. Plus, with the added crunch of pecans, it’s a feast for the senses. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, these little rounds will surely bring some joy to your plate. Let’s dive into how to make this oh-so-delicious dish!
What’s in Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds?
- Butternut squash: The star of the show! Look for a medium-sized, firm squash with smooth skin. If you want to save time, you can often find pre-cut squash in stores!
- Olive oil: This is what gives the squash a lovely sheen and helps in roasting. I usually reach for extra virgin olive oil for that extra depth of flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch helps to enhance all the flavors. I’m a big fan of sea salt for its texture and mineral content.
- Black pepper: A classic seasoning that adds just a hint of heat and complexity.
- Paprika: Smoky or sweet, you pick! I lean toward smoked paprika for that added punch.
- Blue cheese: Crumbled over the top for that tangy goodness! If you’re not a blue cheese fan, feta or goat cheese makes a great substitute.
- Pecans: Chopped and toasted—they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Feel free to swap for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
- Fresh parsley: This is optional but adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish before serving!
Are Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! Butternut squash is like a superhero veggie packed with vitamin A, which is fantastic for your eyesight and immune system. It also contains fiber to help with digestion. The olive oil is full of healthy fats and antioxidants that are good for heart health. The only thing to keep an eye on is the blue cheese—while it’s delicious and adds a punch of flavor, it can be a little high in calories and sodium, so watch your serving size if you’re being mindful of that. Overall, these roasted rounds strike a great balance between taste and health!
Ingredients List
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds?
- First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 400°F (200°C).
- Carefully peel the butternut squash—I like to use a vegetable peeler for this. Then, cut it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Remember, the more even you cut, the more evenly they’ll roast!
- Arrange the squash rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. No one likes a sticky baking sheet!
- Drizzle the olive oil generously over the squash, and then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Toss them gently to make sure each round is fully coated in all that goodness.
- Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through. You want them to be tender and golden brown.
- Once they’re done, take them out and sprinkle the warm squash rounds with crumbled blue cheese and chopped pecans. This cheesy goodness will melt into the warm squash!
- Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes, just to let the cheese soften a bit more.
- Before serving, give them a touch of beauty with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like.
Tips for the Perfect Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds
- If you have balsamic glaze on hand, drizzle a little over the finished rounds for an extra flavor boost.
- Want to spice it up? Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper along with the other spices for some heat.
- These rounds make for a great appetizer—just pile them high on a platter and watch them vanish!
Honestly, I can’t believe how easy and delicious these Roasted Butternut Squash Rounds are. They fit perfectly in any meal, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just cooking for yourself. I promise you’ll fall in love with their flavor and simplicity just like I did. So, get your apron on, grab your squash, and let’s get roasting! And please, when you do try this out, share your photos and thoughts with me. Happy cooking!
