Spicy Maple Butternut Squash (Print)
Sweet and spicy maple-roasted veggies with bacon, cranberries, pecans, and cheese. Perfect for holidays or weeknights.
# Ingredients:
01 -
1 pound brussels sprouts, stems and outer leaves removed, halved
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4 cups cubed butternut squash
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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⅛ teaspoon ground cloves or allspice
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Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
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4-5 ounces uncooked bacon
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⅓ cup dried cranberries
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½ cup toasted pecan halves, chopped
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⅓ cup gorgonzola, blue cheese, or goat cheese crumbles
# Directions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet, or two smaller baking sheets, with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread out brussels sprouts and butternut squash in an even layer, ensuring no overcrowding. If needed, use two baking sheets and plan to rotate them halfway through roasting.
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In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, maple syrup, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and ground cloves or allspice until well combined. Pour over the brussels sprouts and butternut squash. Season generously with salt and pepper. Use clean hands to toss and coat the vegetables evenly.
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Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the vegetables for 15 minutes. Flip them for even cooking, then roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the brussels sprouts are golden brown and the butternut squash is fork-tender.
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While the vegetables roast, cook the bacon according to the package directions. Use 4-5 ounces (approximately 4-6 slices). Once cooked and crispy, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to remove excess grease. Chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
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Once the roasted vegetables are done, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Gently fold in the chopped bacon, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans. Garnish the dish with crumbled gorgonzola, blue cheese, or goat cheese before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure vegetables are spread out on the baking sheet to allow proper roasting and prevent steaming.
02 -
The bacon should be crispy to blend well with the roasted vegetables and toppings.