Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Whipped Butternut Squash with Red Onions! This velvety, creamy dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate, combining the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich, caramelized flavor of red onions. Perfect as a side dish for any occasion, this recipe is so simple yet so impressive that your family and friends will be begging for seconds. Ready to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 large red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Carefully peel the butternut squash using a sharp vegetable peeler. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds with a spoon, and then cube the flesh into roughly 1-inch uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.
- Slice the red onion into thin, even rings or half-moons, keeping the slices approximately 1/4 inch thick for consistent caramelization.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash and sliced red onions with olive oil, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Sprinkle generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Spread the seasoned squash and onions in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure the pieces are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning. The squash should be tender and slightly caramelized, and the onions should be soft and slightly charred.
- Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and transfer to a food processor or high-powered blender. If using maple syrup, add it now for a touch of sweetness.
- Blend the roasted squash and onions until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture seems too thick, add a small amount of warm water or vegetable broth to achieve desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. For extra richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream.
- Transfer the whipped butternut squash to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, chopped fresh herbs like thyme or sage, or toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.
- Serve immediately while warm, as a luxurious side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as part of a holiday meal spread.
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: Make sure to cube the butternut squash into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting. This will help achieve that perfect caramelization and tenderness.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Roasting at a high temperature (425°F) enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and onions, so resist the urge to lower the heat for quicker cooking.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mix! A pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add an exciting twist to the flavor profile.
- Adjust Consistency: If your whipped squash is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of warm water or vegetable broth while blending to reach your desired creaminess.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even some toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, so serve it immediately after blending for the most luxurious experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
