As autumn blankets the world in warm hues of red, orange, and gold, our kitchens come alive with the flavors of the season.

It’s the time of year when butternut squash takes center stage, and there’s no better way to celebrate its rich, earthy sweetness than with a mouthwatering recipe for Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash.

This dish is not only a visual delight but also a symphony of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Join us on this culinary journey as we explore the steps to create this stunning and delectable masterpiece.

Let’s begin with the ingredients needed to bring this Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash to life:

1 medium-sized butternut squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

3-4 tablespoons of chopped pecans for garnish
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

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Equipment:

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following equipment:

Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Baking sheet or dish
Pastry brush
Aluminum foil
Oven

Step 1: Preparing the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when you need it.

Place the butternut squash on a sturdy cutting board and, using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice off both ends to create stable, flat surfaces.

Stand the squash upright, and with a gentle but firm grip, peel the skin using downward strokes. You can also use a vegetable peeler for this task. Ensure that all the skin is removed, leaving the vibrant orange flesh exposed.

Once peeled, cut the squash in half lengthwise. This will give you two long halves to work with.

Scoop out the seeds and pulp from both halves using a spoon, creating a smooth channel.

Choosing the Right Butternut Squash:

• Look for a butternut squash that feels firm and heavy for its size. This indicates ripeness and freshness.
• Smaller squash varieties are often sweeter and more tender, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.

Step 2: Creating the Hasselback Design

The hallmark of a Hasselback dish is the series of thin, evenly spaced slices that create a fan-like pattern. Here’s how you achieve that effect:

Place one half of the butternut squash, flat side down, on your cutting board.

Make thin, parallel slices across the squash, taking care not to cut all the way through. The slices should be about 1/8 inch (3 mm) apart. You can use wooden chopsticks placed on each side of the squash as a guide to prevent the knife from going too deep.

Repeat this process for the other half of the squash.

Step 3: Preparing the Glaze

Now, let’s whip up the delightful honey glaze that will infuse the butternut squash with sweetness and depth of flavor.

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, minced garlic, thyme leaves, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Stir the ingredients together until well combined.

Feel free to customize the honey glaze by adding herbs like rosemary, sage, or even a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.

Adjust the amount of honey and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer it sweeter or spicier, it’s easy to adapt.

Step 4: Glazing the Squash

It’s time to infuse your carefully sliced butternut squash with that irresistible honey glaze.

Place both halves of the squash onto a baking sheet or dish lined with aluminum foil, cut side up.

Use a pastry brush to generously coat the entire surface of the squash with the honey glaze mixture. Make sure the glaze gets into every nook and cranny of the Hasselback slices.

Step 5: Roasting the Hasselback Butternut Squash

The oven is now ready for the main event. Roasting the butternut squash will transform it into a tender and caramelized masterpiece.

Cover the baking sheet or dish with aluminum foil to create a tent-like effect. This will help trap steam and moisture, ensuring the squash cooks evenly and stays moist.

Place the foil-covered squash in the preheated oven and roast for 45 minutes.

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil, exposing the glazed butternut squash to the direct heat of the oven.

Continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the squash is tender and beautifully caramelized, with the edges slightly crispy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Your Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash is now ready to dazzle both your eyes and your taste buds.

Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The glaze will have thickened slightly, creating a gorgeous lacquered finish.

Transfer the roasted squash to a serving platter, and don’t forget to drizzle any remaining glaze and the pecans over the top.

Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.

Step 7: Enjoy!

The moment has arrived to savor the fruits of your labor. Slice into the Hasselback Butternut Squash, allowing the slices to open up like a beautiful fan. Each bite is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, with the tender flesh contrasting perfectly with the crispy edges.

This dish makes an excellent side for autumn dinners, Thanksgiving feasts, or even a weeknight meal when you want to treat yourself to something special.

What To Make With Butternut Squash:

This Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It’s an excellent side for roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or a hearty vegetarian main like stuffed portobello mushrooms.

Consider serving it as a side dish for Thanksgiving or other fall gatherings, where it’s sure to impress your guests.

Feel free to experiment with this recipe throughout the fall and winter seasons. You can try different types of squash, such as acorn or delicata, for a unique twist.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your leftovers. Use them in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or even as a topping for a fall-themed pizza.

Storing Hasselback Butternut Squash

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers or need to store the prepared butternut squash for a short period, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that it cools down to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing: While butternut squash can be frozen, the texture may change slightly when thawed. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire squash tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Leftover Hasselback Butternut Squash

When reheating your leftover Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash, it’s important to preserve its flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover squash slices on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover during the last few minutes to allow the edges to crisp up again.

Microwave: For a quicker option, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place the squash on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap with a small vent, and heat in 30-second intervals until it reaches the desired temperature. Be cautious not to overheat, as it can become mushy.

Conclusion

In the world of seasonal delights, Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash stands as a testament to the beauty and flavor that autumn brings. With its intricate design and harmonious blend of honey, garlic, and thyme, this dish elevates the humble butternut squash into a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds singing.

As you embrace the changing leaves and cooler temperatures, let this recipe be your invitation to savor the season and create memorable moments around the table with your loved ones. From the first slice to the last bite, your taste buds will thank you for this delectable journey into the heart of autumn.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on this culinary adventure. The Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash awaits, ready to take your fall dining experience to new heights.