Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta

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Sweet, nutty, and irresistibly savory-sweet, this Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta is your new favorite side dish for the holidays and beyond. Golden cubes of roasted squash are lightly caramelized with honey, paired with the tart pop of dried cranberries, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the creamy tang of feta cheese. It’s as gorgeous on the plate as it is satisfying to eat.

Whether you’re serving it as a festive side at Thanksgiving or folding it into your weeknight meal prep, this dish comes together effortlessly while offering a big pay-off in flavor. Plus, it looks stunning on any table with its vibrant medley of warm orange, deep red, and snowy white toppings.

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Why You’ll Love This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash

• Sweet meets savory: The honey glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, perfectly balanced by salty feta.
• Great for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser with both visual appeal and big flavor.
• Simple to make: A few ingredients and one sheet pan is all you need.
• Flexible: Easily make it vegan, dairy-free, or nut-free.

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What Kind of Butternut Squash Should I Use?

Choose a firm, heavy butternut squash with unblemished skin. Look for one with a long neck and small bulb – it means more flesh and fewer seeds. Pre-cut squash is also a great time-saver if you’re short on prep time. Just make sure the pieces are evenly sized for uniform roasting.

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Ingredients for the Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta

Each ingredient in this cozy side dish brings something essential to the flavor and texture:

• Butternut Squash: The star of the dish. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and buttery texture.
• Olive Oil: Helps the squash roast evenly and prevents sticking.
• Honey: Adds a caramelized sweetness that enhances the squash.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing sweet and savory flavors.
• Dried Cranberries: Add tartness and chewiness for contrast.
• Toasted Pecans: Provide crunch and a nutty warmth.
• Feta Cheese: Creamy, salty, and tangy, it ties all the flavors together.
• Fresh Thyme (optional): A touch of earthy herbaceousness if desired.

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How To Make the Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta

Step 1: Prep the Squash

Peel and cube the butternut squash into even 1-inch pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey until well coated.

Step 2: Roast to Golden Perfection

Spread the squash in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until tender and golden brown.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

While the squash is roasting, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Transfer roasted squash to a serving bowl or platter. Sprinkle with cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta. Garnish with thyme if using.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve immediately while the squash is warm and the feta slightly melty for the best texture and flavor.

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How to Serve and Store Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries, Pecans, and Feta

This vibrant side dish serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. It’s perfect for holiday meals, potlucks, or as a hearty addition to your weekday dinners.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. For best texture, sprinkle with fresh feta and pecans just before serving again.

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What to Serve With Honey Roasted Butternut Squash?

Roasted Chicken

Pair it with simple roasted chicken seasoned with herbs or lemon for a classic combo.

Maple Glazed Salmon

The sweet-savory notes of this squash dish beautifully complement the richness of glazed salmon.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Create a colorful, hearty plate with these veggie-packed mains.

Turkey or Ham

A natural choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas spreads.

Quinoa Salad

Toss leftover squash into a grain bowl with arugula and vinaigrette.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

Bright and crisp, they add a fresh green touch to the plate.

Mushroom Risotto

Creamy and earthy, this pairs well with the roasted flavors.

Baked Tofu

For a vegetarian-friendly meal, serve alongside marinated, oven-baked tofu.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re loving the comforting, cozy vibes of this dish, don’t miss these other delicious sides:

• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes – ultra creamy and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
• Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots – tender, crisp, and bursting with flavor.
• Easy Veggie Patties – crispy, wholesome, and satisfying.
• Spaghetti Squash Casserole – a low-carb option packed with flavor.
• Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni – hearty and indulgent with rich flavors.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch out the feta for goat cheese? Add roasted brussels sprouts? I’d love to hear your twist.

Explore beautifully curated healthy and seasonal recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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