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Quick Roasted Honeynut Squash with Brown Butter

roasted honeynut squash with brown butter - featured image

This quick roasted honeynut squash with brown butter is a simple yet impressive side dish ready in under 30 minutes. With just five ingredients and one pan, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 honeynut squash (about 2 pounds total)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
  • 10–12 fresh sage leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
  • Pinch of cinnamon or cayenne (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut each honeynut squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits.
  3. Place the squash halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. If using cinnamon or cayenne, sprinkle that on too.
  4. Make the brown butter: Melt the butter in a small skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Swirl occasionally. After 2-3 minutes, the butter will foam. Continue swirling until the butter turns golden-amber and smells nutty, about 4-5 minutes total. Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Drop the sage leaves into the hot brown butter. Swirl for about 10 seconds, then pour the butter and sage leaves over the squash halves. Use a pastry brush or spoon to coat each half.
  6. Roast for 18-22 minutes, until the edges are golden and caramelized and the squash is easily pierced with a fork.
  7. Let the squash cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, pouring any remaining brown butter from the pan over the top. Garnish with the crispy sage leaves.

Notes

Watch the brown butter carefully—it can go from perfect to burnt in seconds. Don’t crowd the pan; leave at least an inch of space between squash halves. For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: honeynut squash, roasted squash, brown butter, sage, quick side dish, fall recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, vegetarian