If you’re craving a dish that bursts with cozy autumn flavors and a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, then the Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful combination brings together golden, tender butternut squash caramelized to perfection, creamy, melty brie, crunchy toasted pecans, and a playful drizzle of hot honey that adds the slightest kick. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a festive side for your holiday table, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple, relying on a handful of ingredients that each play a vital role in creating that irresistible flavor and pleasing texture. Every element is essential, from the earthy butternut squash to the rich brie, ensuring a harmonious balance on your plate.
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed: The star of the dish that caramelizes beautifully for a sweet, nutty base.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the squash roast to golden perfection while adding depth.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and layers of flavor.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of warmth and spice.
- 4 oz (115 g) brie cheese, sliced or torn: Melts gorgeously over the warm squash, bringing creamy richness.
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans: Adds crunch and a buttery nuttiness that complements the squash.
- 2–3 tbsp hot honey (honey warmed with chili flakes): A sweet-spicy drizzle that elevates every bite with vibrant flavor.
- Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish: Provides freshness and an herbal aroma to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This setup ensures uniform heat distribution, helping your butternut squash caramelize just right.
Step 2: Toss the Squash
In a large bowl, toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Every cube should be well-coated to ensure even roasting and that fantastic golden color. Spread the cubes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet to guarantee crisp edges and tender centers.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the squash for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, give everything a good toss to promote even caramelization. You’ll know it’s done when each piece is beautifully golden and tender with a slight crisp on the edges.
Step 4: Add Brie and Pecans
Once your squash cubes have roasted, pull the pan out of the oven and scatter slices or torn pieces of brie cheese over the hot squash. Sprinkle toasted pecans on top for added texture and flavor. This step will get your dish perfectly melty and nutty in the next few minutes.
Step 5: Melt the Brie
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye as the brie melts and bubbles, turning irresistibly creamy and delicious, melding all those flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey and Garnish
Remove the squash from the oven and generously drizzle with warm hot honey. The spicy sweetness from the chili-infused honey adds a brilliant contrast to the creamy and caramelized notes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary to add a burst of herbal fragrance and color.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve this Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe while it’s still warm. It works wonderfully as a side dish, a vegetarian appetizer, or even a comforting main on a cool evening. Its layers of flavor and textural contrast make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs are classic garnishes, lending an herbal brightness that complements the richness of the dish. Chopped fresh chives or a few twists of black pepper also bring lovely flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like pork or chicken, or alongside a leafy green salad to balance its richness. For holiday meals, try serving it with mashed potatoes or a couscous pilaf for a complete, satisfying spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the roasted squash on a wooden board or in a warm ceramic dish for that rustic cozy vibe. Drizzle extra hot honey tableside for guests to add more if they like. You can even toss the components into a grain bowl or atop toasted bread for a gourmet twist on bruschetta.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the next day without losing its flavorful charm.
Freezing
This dish freezes reasonably well without the fresh herbs and brie topping. For best results, freeze the roasted squash and toasted pecans separately. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh brie, hot honey, and herbs before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the brie is melty again. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave can work too, but reheating in the oven preserves the textures better, keeping the squash tender and pecans crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! While brie provides a creamy melt and mild flavor, cheeses like camembert or a soft goat cheese can also work beautifully if you prefer a slightly tangier or earthier taste.
How spicy is the hot honey in this recipe?
The hot honey offers a gentle warmth from chili flakes, balancing sweetness with a bit of heat. You can adjust the amount or type of chili flakes in your hot honey to make it milder or spicier based on your preference.
Can I prepare this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the brie and use a vegan cheese alternative that melts well. The rest of the ingredients, like butternut squash, pecans, and hot honey (or maple syrup with chili flakes), will still give you that delicious sweet and spicy profile.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly browned. This enhances their nuttiness and adds a lovely crunch to the dish.
Can this be made ahead of time for a party?
You can roast the squash and toast pecans a day in advance, then add the brie and hot honey just before serving. This helps save time and guarantees the brie is perfectly melty and fresh at your gathering.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a warm, comforting dish packed with layers of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, the Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe is your new go-to. It’s simple to make but impressive on any table, and once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your favorite recipes to share with friends and family. Trust me, this is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful recipe features caramelized butternut squash roasted to golden perfection, topped with creamy melted brie cheese, crunchy toasted pecans, and a generous drizzle of spicy hot honey. Garnished with fresh herbs, it offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors ideal for weeknight dinners or festive holiday sides.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Dairy
- 4 oz (115 g) brie cheese, sliced or torn
Others
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans
- 2–3 tbsp hot honey (honey warmed with chili flakes)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and even roasting.
- Prepare Squash: Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Spread the cubes evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast Squash: Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, tossing the squash halfway through the cooking time to achieve an even, golden caramelization.
- Add Brie and Pecans: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly top the roasted squash with slices or torn pieces of brie cheese and sprinkle toasted pecans over the top.
- Melt Brie: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the brie melts and starts to bubble.
- Finish with Hot Honey and Herbs: Drizzle the warm, chili-infused hot honey generously over the melted brie and squash. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for added aroma and color.
- Serve: Serve the dish warm as a savory side, an elegant appetizer, or a satisfying vegetarian main course.
Notes
- Ensure the butternut squash cubes are evenly sized for uniform roasting.
- Use fresh brie for best melting results; let it come to room temperature before slicing.
- To make hot honey, gently warm honey with red chili flakes and strain if desired.
- Toasted pecans can be easily made by briefly roasting pecans in a dry skillet until fragrant.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a crisp green salad.
- For a spicier kick, add more chili flakes to the hot honey or drizzle with a pinch of cayenne.
