What size butternut squash is best for making Hasselback butternut squash?

Choose small to medium-sized butternut squash for Hasselback preparation. This size allows each half to serve about two people and ensures even cooking. Larger squash may require longer roasting times and can be harder to slice evenly for the Hasselback technique.

How can I slice butternut squash for Hasselback without cutting all the way through?

To avoid cutting through the butternut squash, place two wooden spoons or chopsticks parallel on either side of the squash as a barrier. Use a sharp knife to make thin, evenly spaced slits across the squash’s rounded side, stopping when the knife hits the spoons. This technique keeps the base intact while allowing the slices to fan out during cooking.

Can I prepare Hasselback butternut squash ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can partially roast the squash for about 30 minutes, then let it cool and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. When ready to serve, finish roasting until tender and golden. Breadcrumbs or toppings can also be prepared in advance and stored separately. This method saves time while maintaining flavor.

How can I make Hasselback butternut squash vegan or gluten-free?

To make a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine and skip any meat additions. For gluten-free options, replace traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts. The overall cooking time and technique remain the same, ensuring a tasty alternative for special diets.

Is it possible to freeze Hasselback butternut squash, and how should I reheat it?

Hasselback butternut squash can be frozen after cooking and cooling completely. Wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crisp on the edges, usually about 15-20 minutes.

Hasselback Butternut Squash Recipe With Crispy Sage Butter Topping

Name: Hasselback Butternut Squash
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 small to medium butternut squash the main component, providing sweet, starchy flesh that forms the base of this roasted hasselback squash dish; – 4 tablespoons olive oil promotes browning and crisping in the hasselback slices, helping to lock in moisture and add a subtle richness; – 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted extra creamy butter, at room temperature enriches the mouthfeel and helps the edges crisp up, but can be replaced for a creamy texture in other versions; – 3 tablespoons maple syrup an optional glaze that accents caramelization and balances the savory flavors, making the hasselback butternut squash extra irresistible; – 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage plus 8 sage leaves adds a herby aroma and freshness, enhancing the overall seasoning layers in this Hasselback Butternut Squash; – 1 cup finely torn ciabatta bread creates crispy breadcrumbs for topping, adding texture, though you can swap for gluten-free options if needed; – 3 ounces prosciutto provides a salty crunch that contrasts the sweetness, but omit for vegan adaptations or use plant-based alternatives; – Salt and pepper to taste balances the sweetness and seasons the flesh, ensuring every bite of this Hasselback Butternut Squash is perfectly flavored

Description

🍠 This Hasselback Butternut Squash features perfectly roasted, thinly sliced squash glazed with sweet maple syrup and savory sage butter.
🥓 The crispy prosciutto breadcrumb topping adds a flavorful crunch, making it an ideal festive side dish.

Ingredients

– 2 small to medium butternut squash the main component, providing sweet, starchy flesh that forms the base of this roasted hasselback squash dish

– 4 tablespoons olive oil promotes browning and crisping in the hasselback slices, helping to lock in moisture and add a subtle richness

– 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted extra creamy butter, at room temperature enriches the mouthfeel and helps the edges crisp up, but can be replaced for a creamy texture in other versions

– 3 tablespoons maple syrup an optional glaze that accents caramelization and balances the savory flavors, making the hasselback butternut squash extra irresistible

– 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage plus 8 sage leaves adds a herby aroma and freshness, enhancing the overall seasoning layers in this Hasselback Butternut Squash

– 1 cup finely torn ciabatta bread creates crispy breadcrumbs for topping, adding texture, though you can swap for gluten-free options if needed

– 3 ounces prosciutto provides a salty crunch that contrasts the sweetness, but omit for vegan adaptations or use plant-based alternatives

– Salt and pepper to taste balances the sweetness and seasons the flesh, ensuring every bite of this Hasselback Butternut Squash is perfectly flavored

Instructions

1-First Step: Preparation and Mise en Place Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F, which gives you that perfect roast for Hasselback Butternut Squash. Wash and dry the 2 small to medium butternut squash, then trim the ends and peel the skin for easier handling. Set out your 4 tablespoons olive oil, 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted extra creamy butter, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage plus 8 sage leaves, and a baking sheet to keep everything organized. This step ensures you’re ready to go, making the process smooth and efficient, especially for busy parents or working professionals.

2-Second Step: Cutting the Squash Now, halve the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to prepare for the signature hasselback slices. Place the squash stem-side up on a cutting board and use two wooden spoons on either side as guides to avoid cutting all the way through. Make thin, even crosswise slits about 2-3 mm apart across the rounded side, which allows the slices to fan out beautifully during cooking. This technique is key for that eye-catching look in Hasselback Butternut Squash, and it works well for variations like adding protein later.

3-Third Step: Seasoning and Basting Once sliced, rub the squash with the 4 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted extra creamy butter, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage to create a flavorful sage maple butter. Spread half of this mixture over the scored side, letting it drip into the slits for even flavor distribution, then add more salt and pepper as needed.

4-Fourth Step: Baking Setup Place the prepared squash on a baking sheet with the scored side up, ready for roasting. If you want a more tender interior, loosely tent with foil for the first part of cooking. Roast at 425 degrees F for 15 minutes until slightly softened, which is ideal for this Hasselback Butternut Squash to absorb flavors.

5-Fifth Step: Roasting Times and Temperatures After the initial roast, continue baking for 30 minutes, then add the remaining butter mixture and baste with any pan juices. Roast for another 15-20 minutes until tender, checking at intervals to ensure even cooking. For larger squash, this might take longer, so aim for 40-60 minutes total depending on size as a guide, use 400°F for most Hasselback Butternut Squash preparations.

6-Sixth Step: Finishing and Serving In the last few minutes, increase the heat if needed to crisp the edges, then transfer to a plate and drizzle with any leftover butter. Top with the prosciutto breadcrumbs and sage leaves for that final touch. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving warm, making it a versatile side for any occasion.

Notes

🔪 Use a sharp knife and wooden spoons on both sides to prevent slicing all the way through.
🍁 Maple syrup helps caramelize squash and balance savory flavors.
🥓 Prosciutto breadcrumbs add salty crunch and complement the sweet herb glaze.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 365

Keywords: Hasselback Butternut Squash, Sage Butter, Prosciutto Topping, Roasted Squash