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Simple Stovetop Braised Butternut Squash

Close-up of perfectly cooked, orange braised butternut squash cubes seasoned with herbs in a white serving bowl.
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Learn how to make tender, flavorful braised butternut squash on the stovetop. This easy method results in a hearty fall side dish perfect for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the cubed butternut squash and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until the edges begin to lightly brown. This step builds flavor.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the broth, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let the squash braise for 20 to 25 minutes.
  7. Check the squash; it should be fork-tender. If the liquid is too thin, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to medium-low for the last 5 minutes to allow some liquid to reduce.
  8. Remove from heat and serve warm as a tender butternut side dish.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute the broth with dry white wine for the first 1/2 cup, then add 1/2 cup of broth.
  • If you prefer a slightly caramelized butternut squash finish, uncover the pot for the last 5 minutes of cooking and allow the sugars to thicken slightly around the squash pieces.
  • This recipe works well for slow cooked squash; transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/braised-butternut-simple-stovetop-recipe/