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Parmesan-Roasted Butternut Squash

Parmesan-Roasted Butternut Squash

By Rose HattabaughOctober 17, 2023

Sponsored by Whole Foods Market
  • Makes
    4 to 6 servings
  • Cook Time
    50 minutes
  • Active time plus cooling
    15 minutes active
  • Rating

Inspired by classic Italian pasta with pumpkin, this recipe pairs the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with warm nutmeg, woodsy herbs and salty-savory Parmesan. The cheese is sprinkled on midway through roasting so it browns and crisps in the oven, adding layers of rich, toasty flavor to the dish. Produced in northern Italy, Grana Padano is a grating cheese similar to Parmesan, but typically is less expensive, and a good option in this dish. This is delicious with roast chicken or pork, or toss the cooled squash with sturdy greens along with a vinaigrette to make an autumnal salad.

Ingredients
  • 2

    pound butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1-inch chunks

  • ¼

    cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1½

    teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg, divided

  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper

  • 2

    ounces Parmesan OR Grana Padano cheese, finely grated (1 cup)

  • 1

    tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage

  • 1

    tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary

Step 1

Heat the oven to 450°F with a rack in the middle position. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss together the squash, oil, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper, then distribute in an even layer. Roast until the squash begins to soften, about 15 minutes.

Step 2

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the cheese over the squash, then, using a wide metal spatula, scrape up and flip the squash while incorporating the cheese. Redistribute in an even layer. Roast until the cheese is browned and a skewer inserted into the squash meets no resistance, 15 to 20 minutes. Sprinkle on the remaining ½ teaspoon nutmeg, the sage and rosemary; toss. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Using the spatula, transfer the squash to a platter.

Step 3

Optional garnish: Toasted sliced almonds OR chopped toasted hazelnuts OR chopped toasted pumpkin seeds

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