Name: Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups cubed butternut squash; 2 large apples, chopped; 1 cup pecans; 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Golden chunks of butternut squash and tender apples melt together in a buttery-spiced glaze, dotted with pecans and cranberries that pop with tartness and crunch. This Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake is everything you want in a cozy side dish: warm, sweet, earthy, and bursting with texture. Whether you’re pulling it out of the oven for Thanksgiving or simply pairing it with a weeknight roast, it brings the comforting essence of fall to every bite.

Perfect for those who crave that rustic charm in their meals, this bake combines simple seasonal ingredients with a little brown sugar magic. It’s a must-try if you’re a fan of easy recipes that make your home smell amazing and your table feel like a celebration.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, opt for firm, slightly tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. These hold up well to baking and balance out the sweetness of the brown sugar and dried cranberries. Softer apples like Red Delicious tend to turn mushy, so it’s best to avoid those.

Ingredients for the Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Butternut Squash: The star of the dish with its natural sweetness and creamy texture.
Apples: Bring a tart contrast and soft bite to every spoonful.
Pecans: Add a rich, toasty crunch that complements the squash beautifully.
Dried Cranberries: A tangy pop of color and flavor in every bite.
Butter: Helps everything caramelize and adds a velvety richness.
Brown Sugar: Creates a warm, molasses-kissed glaze that ties it all together.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: For that classic fall spice aroma.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance all the sweet elements.

How To Make the Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Prep the Produce

Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Core and chop the apples into chunks of similar size for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Spice Mix

In a bowl, melt the butter and stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This sweet-spiced butter mixture is what makes the whole dish sing.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

In a large mixing bowl, toss the squash, apples, pecans, and cranberries with the butter mixture until evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour everything into a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, stirring halfway through. The squash should be fork-tender, and the sugar glaze thick and bubbly.

Serving and Storing This Autumn Delight

Serve it warm right out of the oven as a standout holiday side or hearty fall dinner companion. Leftovers? Just cover and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave—it’s just as tasty the next day, and even a bit more flavorful as everything melds together.

What to Serve With Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Herb-Roasted Turkey

The savory depth of a roasted bird pairs naturally with the sweet, earthy flavors of this bake.

Pork Chops with Apple Glaze

Echo the apple notes in the main dish and let the flavors sing in harmony.

Maple Dijon Chicken

Sweet and tangy meets warm and rustic—a surprisingly balanced match.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Adds a nutty, chewy contrast to the soft textures of the squash and apples.

Cheddar Biscuits

Because everything is better with a golden, cheesy biscuit on the side.

Creamy Cauliflower Soup

Start your meal with something creamy and comforting to match the warm notes of this dish.

Want More Fall Side Dish Ideas?

If this cozy Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake hit the spot, you’ll probably fall for these other autumn-inspired favorites:

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes for herbaceous warmth.
Creamy Cranberry Salad if you’re looking for a cool, creamy contrast.
Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes for serious comfort.
Parmesan Baked Potatoes with crispy edges and savory bites.
Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes when you’re after creamy layers of indulgence.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you tossed in sweet potatoes or drizzled with maple syrup? Let us know how you made it your own—drop your tips or questions in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com’s Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

If you’re craving a warm, cozy, sweet-yet-savory side dish that screams fall, this Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake is the perfect pick. It’s a mouthwatering medley of tender butternut squash, tart apples, crunchy pecans, and chewy cranberries glazed with a buttery brown sugar spice mix. Whether you’re planning easy dinner ideas, need a comforting holiday recipe, or just want to try something new for your fall table, this dish delivers. It’s simple to make, packed with texture, and ideal for breakfast ideas, healthy snacks, or even a unique addition to dinner parties. Truly one of those must-try food ideas that covers it all.