1. Can I make Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the squash ahead of time by roasting it until it’s soft but not fully cooked. Once ready to serve, brush with the butter mixture and top with goat cheese and bacon before finishing the roasting process. This makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights.

2. How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. For the cheese, you can use a dairy-free version such as cashew cheese or another plant-based option. The rest of the recipe remains the same, allowing you to enjoy all the flavor with a vegan twist.

3. Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?

While butternut squash is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other types of squash, such as acorn or pumpkin, though they may vary in texture and flavor. Butternut squash is ideal because it holds its shape and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory toppings.

4. What other toppings can I add to Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash?

The topping possibilities for Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash are endless. You can add shredded cheese, roasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast. For a more savory twist, try adding sautéed spinach or caramelized onions. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to customize based on your taste.

Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash + Easy Recipe

Name: Loaded Hasselback Butternut Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large or 2 small Butternut Squash, peeled and halved; 1-2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt; 2 tablespoons Butter, salted; 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme; 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar; 2 Garlic Cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons Black Pepper; 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika; 4-6 Bay Leaves; Goat Cheese Crumbles, to taste; Bacon Crumbles, to taste

Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large or 2 small Butternut Squash, peeled and halved
1-2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 teaspoons Kosher Salt
2 tablespoons Butter, salted
1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme
1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
2 Garlic Cloves, minced
2 teaspoons Black Pepper
2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
4-6 Bay Leaves
Goat Cheese Crumbles, to taste
Bacon Crumbles, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and peel the butternut squash. Cut it in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
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.
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.
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.
Use a pastry brush to generously coat the squash with the herb-infused butter, making sure to get between the slices.
Return the squash to the oven for another 40 minutes, basting it every 15 minutes with the remaining butter glaze.
Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and top with goat cheese crumbles and bacon crumbles. Garnish with additional fresh thyme.

Notes

Be careful not to cut all the way through the squash when scoring it.
You can make the dish ahead of time by roasting the squash until softened and then finishing it with the butter and toppings when you’re ready to serve.
If you prefer a vegan option, use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
For added flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts or seeds on top before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg