Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese

There’s something magical about walking into a kitchen filled with the aroma of Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary baking in the oven. After a long day at work, this dish has become my go-to recipe when I want something that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The sweet, caramelized edges of the butternut squash, tangy creaminess of the goat cheese, bright pops of pomegranate, and the earthy fragrance of rosemary create a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.

This easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant side dish that’s equally at home on your weeknight table or as part of a holiday feast. The vibrant colors alone make this dish Instagram-worthy, but it’s the balanced flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary

• ✅ This healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants for a nutritious addition to any meal
• ✅ The sweet and savory Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary offers perfect flavor balance in every bite
• ✅ Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary side dish is perfect for busy weeknights
• ✅ This gourmet Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary looks and tastes impressive with minimal effort
• ✅ The flavorful Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary recipe can be prepped ahead, making it ideal for entertaining

Ingredients for Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary

• 2 cups butternut squash – peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
• ½ teaspoon minced fresh rosemary (1/4 teaspoon dried can be substituted)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese (substitute feta or dairy-free cheese for alternatives)
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate arils (fresh or packaged)
• Sprigs of fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
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• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze for a tangy finish
• 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch

How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary – Step by Step

Preparation

Step 1:

 Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2:

 Prepare the butternut squash by peeling it with a sharp vegetable peeler. Cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut into 1-inch cubes.

Pro tip: For easier peeling and cutting, microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin.

Step 3:

 Place the cubed butternut squash in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.

Roasting

Step 4:

 Spread the seasoned butternut squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces aren’t overcrowded. This allows for proper caramelization rather than steaming.

Step 5: 

Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and edges are caramelized. For even cooking, toss the squash halfway through baking time.

Assembly

Step 6:

 Remove the squash from the oven and transfer to a serving dish while still warm.

Step 7: I

mmediately sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the hot squash, allowing it to slightly melt.

Step 8: 

Scatter pomegranate arils over the dish, and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.

Step 9:

 Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary

• Uniform cutting: Try to cut the squash into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the squash pieces space on the baking sheet to encourage caramelization rather than steaming.
• Season generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper – they enhance the natural sweetness of the squash.
• Cheese timing matters: Add the goat cheese while the squash is still warm, but not piping hot, for the perfect melt without completely liquifying.
• Prep ahead: You can roast the squash up to 2 days ahead and reheat before adding the cheese and pomegranate for a quick assembly.

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary

This versatile dish works beautifully in multiple serving scenarios:

• As a side dish: Pair with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a complete meal.
• In a salad: Allow the squash to cool and mix with baby spinach, extra goat cheese, and a simple vinaigrette for a hearty salad.
• As a vegetarian main: Serve a larger portion over quinoa or farro for a satisfying plant-based meal.
• Holiday table: This colorful dish makes a stunning addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread.

For a complete meal experience, serve with our Herb-Roasted Chicken and Simple Green Salad with Lemon Dressing.

Nutritional Information for Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary

Per serving (recipe serves 3):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g
• Vitamin A: 300% DV
• Vitamin C: 35% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

This healthy Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary dish is naturally gluten-free, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals.

Storage & Leftovers

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results:

• Store the roasted squash separately from the goat cheese and pomegranate if possible.
• Reheat the squash in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Add fresh goat cheese and pomegranate after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

While freezing is possible, the texture of the squash may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, do so without the cheese and pomegranate toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of roasted butternut squash?

Butternut squash is incredibly nutritious, packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. It’s low in calories but high in antioxidants that support immune health, eye health, and may reduce inflammation. When incorporated into dishes like Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary, you get a delicious way to boost your nutrient intake.

How do you store leftover roasted butternut squash?

For the best quality, store leftover Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you haven’t added the toppings yet, the plain roasted squash can last up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes rather than microwaving to maintain texture.

Can I substitute goat cheese in this recipe?

Yes! If you don’t enjoy goat cheese, you can substitute feta for a similar tangy flavor in this Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary recipe. For a milder option, try ricotta or even a soft brie. To make this dish dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely and add extra herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

What dishes pair well with roasted butternut squash?

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork. It also complements grain dishes such as wild rice or quinoa. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside mushroom risotto or lentil loaf. The sweet-savory flavor profile makes it versatile for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Conclusion

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary is so much more than a simple side dish – it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors that comes together with minimal effort. The combination of sweet roasted squash, tangy goat cheese, juicy pomegranate, and aromatic rosemary creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a holiday spread, this recipe is sure to impress both visually and with its complex flavor profile. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, proving that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Have you tried making this Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese, Pomegranate, and Rosemary? Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed it or any variations you tried! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate beautiful, flavorful food.

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