If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and delightfully vibrant, this Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It takes the humble butternut squash and transforms it into tender, caramelized noodles that are packed with flavor and perfect as a main or side. With just a handful of ingredients and an easy roasting method, you get a warm, subtly sweet dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create a beautiful balance of taste, texture, and color. Each plays an important role— from the natural sweetness and firmness of the butternut squash to the aromatic freshness of herbs, every component elevates the dish.
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds): The star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and a tender texture once roasted.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps the noodles caramelize beautifully and adds subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory depth and a gentle kick without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like thyme or sage), chopped: Brings a bright, herbal finish that lifts the roasted noodles.
How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the noodles to tender perfection with a beautiful caramelized edge.
Step 2: Prep the Butternut Squash
Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. This simple prep opens it up for spiralizing and ensures you get clean, even noodles.
Step 3: Spiralize the Squash
Using a spiralizer or even a vegetable peeler, create long, noodle-like strands from the squash. This is the fun part where the squash transforms into what feels like an indulgent pasta alternative.
Step 4: Season the Noodles
In a large bowl, toss the noodles with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly coated. This seasoning mix boosts the squash’s natural sweetness and prepares it for roasting.
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Spread the noodles out in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Place them in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until they are tender and perfectly caramelized around the edges.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the roasted noodles with the fresh herbs. The herbs add an aromatic touch and a pop of color that really makes this dish shine.
How to Serve Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To really make your Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe stand out, consider garnishing with toasted pine nuts or a scatter of Parmesan cheese. A few chili flakes can bring exciting warmth as well.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted chicken. If you want to keep things vegetarian, a side of garlic sautéed greens or a simple bean salad complements the noodles perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these noodles in individual bowls topped with a fried egg for brunch or layering them into a warm grain bowl with roasted veggies and your favorite protein. They look gorgeous twirled on a plate and make for an inviting presentation at any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover roasted butternut squash noodles in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it easy to enjoy a nutritious and tasty meal on busy days.
Freezing
While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh for optimal texture, you can freeze the noodles if needed. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Use within one month for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftover noodles gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep them tender but still maintain a bit of the roasted crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, you can experiment with kabocha or delicata squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times and flavors might vary slightly.
Do I need a spiralizer to make the noodles?
Not necessarily. If you don’t have a spiralizer, use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons that will work just as well for roasting.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Definitely. Smoked paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne can add a unique twist to the flavor profile without overpowering the natural taste of the squash.
Is this dish gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! This Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it accessible and delicious for many dietary preferences.
How do I know when the noodles are perfectly roasted?
Look for noodles that are tender when pierced with a fork and have a light golden brown caramelization at the edges. This balance makes them irresistibly flavorful and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe a try soon—it’s become one of my go-to dishes when I want something warming, nourishing, and surprisingly easy to pull together. Once you taste those tender, sweet noodles kissed by fresh herbs, it’s hard not to want a second helping. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!
Print
Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Experience a healthy and delicious twist on traditional noodles with these Roasted Butternut Squash Noodles. Tender, caramelized strands of butternut squash are seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs, making a flavorful, gluten-free alternative perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Butternut Squash Noodles
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like thyme or sage), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the noodles evenly.
- Prepare Squash: Slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds to create hollow halves ready for spiralizing.
- Spiralize Squash: Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create long noodle strands from the squash halves, mimicking traditional pasta noodles.
- Season Noodles: In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash noodles with extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until all strands are evenly coated for enhanced flavor.
- Roast Noodles: Spread the seasoned noodles out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the noodles become tender and lightly caramelized.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the noodles from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or sage to add a fresh, aromatic finish before serving.
Notes
- For even cooking, avoid overcrowding the noodles on the baking sheet; use two sheets if necessary.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for varied flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
