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
Scale
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.
