Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash + Easy Recipe

Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash is an incredibly flavorful and visually stunning dish perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a festive holiday spread. This easy-to-make recipe combines the rich sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory herbs, garlic, and butter, all topped with creamy goat cheese and crispy bacon. If you’re looking for a unique twist on a traditional fall side dish, this loaded Hasselback butternut squash will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash

This Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash recipe is the perfect balance of simple ingredients and bold flavors. It’s quick to prepare, and the result is a dish that is as satisfying as it is beautiful. With just a few pantry staples and fresh herbs, you can transform a humble squash into a gourmet side dish. This recipe is not only healthy and vegetarian-friendly, but it’s also a fantastic option for those looking to impress at their next gathering.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash:

• Butternut Squash: The star of the dish, providing a soft, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the squash roast perfectly.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.
• Butter: For a creamy, indulgent coating that soaks into the squash.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of acidity to balance the richness.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuses the butter with a savory punch.
• Black Pepper: For a bit of warmth and spice.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
• Bay Leaves: A subtle herb flavor during roasting.
• Goat Cheese Crumbles: The creamy, tangy topping that elevates the flavor.
• Bacon Crumbles: Crispy, savory bits that provide texture and contrast.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to tweak this dish based on preferences or dietary needs, here are some alternatives:

• Vegan Option: Swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil and replace the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the goat cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew cheese.
• Herb Variations: Instead of thyme, feel free to experiment with rosemary or sage for different aromatic notes.
• Bacon-Free: For a vegetarian version, leave out the bacon or replace it with crispy chickpeas or nuts for crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Squash: Wash and peel the butternut squash. Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Roast the Squash: Drizzle the squash with extra virgin olive oil and kosher salt. Place the halves cavity-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, just to soften it slightly.
4. Make the Herb Butter: While the squash roasts, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add thyme, apple cider vinegar, garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika, stirring occasionally until the mixture is fully melted.
5. Score the Squash: After the squash has softened, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a sharp knife to make gentle crosswise cuts, being careful not to cut all the way through. Skewers or chopsticks placed on the sides can prevent over-cutting.
6. Brush with Herb Butter: Use a pastry brush to generously coat the squash with the herb-infused butter, making sure to get between the slices.
7. Finish Roasting: Return the squash to the oven for another 40 minutes, basting it every 15 minutes with the remaining butter glaze.
8. Top with Toppings: Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and top with goat cheese crumbles and bacon crumbles. Garnish with additional fresh thyme.

Tips & Tricks

• Patience with Cutting: When slicing the squash, take your time to avoid cutting through. The goal is to create accordion-like slices that will hold the delicious butter mixture.
• Use a Baster: A baster can make it easier to collect the butter from the baking sheet and redistribute it over the squash as it cooks.
• Check for Doneness: The squash is done when it’s tender and the edges of the slices start to crisp up slightly.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture of the roasted squash.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement your meal:

• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
• Sauces: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Make-ahead Tip: You can prepare the squash ahead of time by roasting it until it’s softened. Once ready to serve, top with the butter mixture, goat cheese, and bacon before final roasting.

Why You Should Try Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash

This loaded Hasselback butternut squash isn’t just a side dish; it’s an experience. With its combination of flavors—sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy—it’s bound to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a simple dinner, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

Conclusion

Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash is an exceptional side dish that’s both visually stunning and packed with flavor. With a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy components, this dish is a showstopper on any table. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to your personal preferences, from swapping out cheese to adding your favorite herbs. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal or a casual dinner, it’s a recipe that’s sure to delight everyone who tries it. Give it a go, and let this comforting dish bring joy to your next meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Relevant Recipes

• Easy Honey Garlic Shrimp with Sausage and Broccoli: This delicious dish combines sweet and savory honey garlic shrimp with hearty sausage and tender broccoli, creating a satisfying meal that pairs well with roasted vegetables, like the butternut squash in the original recipe.
• Creamy Boursin Stuffed Mushrooms: These creamy Boursin cheese-stuffed mushrooms offer a rich, herby flavor that complements the savory notes of loaded butternut squash, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish to serve alongside your squash creation.
• Creamy Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: This Mediterranean-inspired cod dish, with its creamy sauce and vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, pairs beautifully with roasted butternut squash, offering a fresh, light alternative for your meal.

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