Maple Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash Recipe

This Maple Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash is the ultimate showstopper side dish. Soft, tender squash is infused with the rich flavors of maple syrup, fresh herbs, and caramelized aromatics, making it a must-have for any gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 1kg | 2.2lb)

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage leaves

• 1 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 shallot, finely diced

• 1/4 cup water (added during roasting)

Instructions

Step 1: Pre-Roast the Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Peel the butternut squash, slice it in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds.

3. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add 1/4 cup of water to the pan and roast for 20 minutes to soften slightly.

4. Carefully remove from the oven and let cool until safe to handle.

Step 2: Make the Maple Herb Glaze

1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the shallot, garlic, sage, and thyme. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

2. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Hasselback the Squash

1. Once cooled, lay the squash halves flat on a cutting board.

2. Using a sharp knife, make thin slices across the squash halves, stopping just before cutting all the way through to create the “Hasselback” effect.

   • Tip: Use chopsticks or skewers on either side of the squash to avoid cutting through completely.

Step 4: Glaze and Roast

1. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).

2. Place the Hasselbacked squash on the baking sheet. Drizzle 1/3 of the maple herb glaze over the squash, making sure it seeps into the slices. Add 1/4 cup of water to the baking sheet to prevent drying.

3. Roast for 15-20 minutes, then take the squash out and drizzle another 1/3 of the glaze over it. Add another 1/4 cup of water to the tray.

4. Repeat the process one more time, using the remaining glaze to baste the squash as it cooks.

Step 5: Final Glaze and Serve

1. For the final 5-10 minutes of roasting, baste the squash with the liquid from the baking tray for extra caramelization.

2. Once the squash is golden and tender, remove from the oven. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh thyme or sage, if desired.

Pro Tip

Serve this Maple Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash alongside roasted meats or as the centerpiece of a vegetarian feast. Its sweet and savory flavors make it perfect for holiday gatherings or any special meal.

• Wear gloves when peeling and handling butternut squash to avoid "squash hands," a harmless but pesky skin irritation caused by the squash's natural sap. This keeps your hands clean and irritation-free!

This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning—a true crowd-pleaser!

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for general informational purposes only. Always check for allergens and consult a healthcare professional for any dietary concerns. I am not legally accountable for any adverse reactions.