As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like a comforting dish that encapsulates the season’s best flavors. This Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake is an absolute must-try, delivering a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s an effortlessly elegant side dish that shines on any fall table, whether you’re planning a grand Thanksgiving feast, a casual Friendsgiving gathering, or simply elevating a weeknight dinner. The unique contrast of salty, crispy bacon against the tender, maple-cinnamon-infused butternut squash and apples creates an unforgettable culinary experience. And let’s be honest, the aroma alone as it bakes is utterly divine, filling your home with the inviting scents of autumn. Best of all, this delightful creation is surprisingly light, with a rounded ¾ cup serving coming in at just 156 calories or 3 WW Points (or 5 Points if you’re following the diabetic WW plan), making it a smart and satisfying choice for health-conscious foodies.
Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake: Your New Favorite Fall Side Dish
Are you searching for a show-stopping side dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful? Look no further. This Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake masterfully combines the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, the crisp tartness of apples, and the irresistible smoky crunch of bacon, all brought together with the warm embrace of maple syrup and cinnamon. It’s a dish that perfectly balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients, making it a stellar addition to any meal. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional fall bakes but introduces a savory twist that truly elevates it beyond the ordinary. Instead of a purely sweet profile, the addition of center-cut bacon introduces a delightful complexity, ensuring every bite is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and utterly satisfying.
Originally, I drew inspiration from the delectable Butternut Squash Apple Bake featured on A Cedar Spoon. While their original recipe, with its brown sugar, raisins, craisins, and pecan topping, sounds absolutely divine for those craving a sweeter experience, I envisioned a bolder, more dynamic flavor profile. My culinary quest was for a casserole where the inherent sweetness of apples and butternut squash would be beautifully complemented by a salty, savory, and irresistibly crispy bacon topping, all tied together with the comforting essence of maple. This adaptation achieves just that, transforming a classic into a modern fall favorite that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Essential Ingredients & Recipe Notes for a Perfect Bake
Crafting this delightful Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake requires a handful of key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. Understanding these components will help you achieve the best results every time.
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Butternut Squash: The Heart of the Dish
Butternut squash is a quintessential fall vegetable, renowned for its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked. For ultimate convenience and to significantly cut down on prep time, I highly recommend opting for pre-cubed butternut squash, readily available in the produce section of most grocery stores. This small shortcut can save you the effort of peeling and deseeding a whole squash, making the cooking process much quicker and more enjoyable. If you prefer to prepare it from scratch, choose a firm, unblemished squash. Peel it carefully, scoop out the seeds, and then chop the flesh into ¾” to 1” cubes. This size ensures uniform cooking, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces that complement the apples beautifully. Butternut squash is also packed with vitamins A and C, making this dish not just delicious but also nutritious.
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Apples: The Sweet & Tart Counterpart
The right apple variety makes all the difference in a baked dish. For this recipe, I’ve found that Gala apples work wonderfully, offering a balanced sweetness and firm texture that holds up well during baking without becoming mushy. However, many other crisp and firm apple varieties are excellent choices. Consider Empire, Cortland, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples for their ability to maintain structure and provide a lovely tart-sweet counterpoint to the squash. Avoid overly soft or mealy apples, as they can break down too much and lose their distinct texture in the bake. The apples not only add natural sweetness but also a refreshing tang, cutting through the richness of the bacon and squash.
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Bacon: The Savory Star
The bacon in this recipe is more than just a topping; it’s a critical flavor component that introduces a salty, smoky, and utterly irresistible crunch. I consistently use center-cut bacon in my recipes because it’s a leaner cut of regular bacon, meaning it renders less fat while still delivering all the delicious flavor and crispiness you crave. This ensures your bake isn’t overly greasy but still benefits from that iconic bacon richness. While I typically opt for Oscar Mayer brand, any high-quality center-cut bacon will do the trick. The key is to cook it until perfectly crisp before crumbling and incorporating it, allowing its savory notes to mingle perfectly with the sweet components.
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Maple Syrup: Authentic Fall Sweetness
When it comes to maple syrup, absolutely insist on using real maple syrup for this recipe. Unlike artificial breakfast syrups, genuine maple syrup offers a complex, rich, and earthy sweetness that is unparalleled. It infuses the butternut squash and apples with an authentic fall flavor that artificial alternatives simply cannot replicate. While you won’t use a vast quantity, the quality of your maple syrup will significantly impact the overall taste and aroma of the dish. Its subtle caramel notes and natural sweetness are integral to creating that comforting, autumnal essence.
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Serving Size: Perfectly Portioned Pleasure
Precision in serving size is important, especially when tracking nutritional information. This recipe yields approximately 7 cups in total, divided into eight generous servings. Since 0.875 of a cup can be tricky to measure perfectly, I recommend serving a rounded ¾ cup. Simply measure out ¾ cup and then add a small extra scoop. This approximation ensures you’re enjoying a satisfying portion while staying true to the nutritional values outlined. Each serving is designed to be a substantial and fulfilling side that perfectly complements your main course.
More Lightened-Up Fall Side Dishes to Love
If you’re a fan of delicious, wholesome, and lightened-up side dishes like this Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake, then you’re in for a treat! Exploring new flavors and textures that fit your healthy lifestyle can be exciting. Here are some other fantastic fall-inspired options that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From crisp green beans to hearty salads and comforting roasted vegetables, there’s something here for every palate and occasion.
- Stovetop Cinnamon Apples: A quick and simple sweet side.
- Bacon Broccoli Side Skillet: Combining savory bacon with fresh broccoli.
- Air Fryer Garlic Balsamic Green Beans: A vibrant and zesty vegetable dish.
- Apple Farro Salad: A hearty and textural salad perfect for autumn.
- Easy Slow Cooker Carrots: Sweet and tender, minimal effort required.
- Warm Butternut Squash Farro Salad: Another excellent way to enjoy butternut squash.
- Apple Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy twist on a classic.
- Green Bean Casserole: A lighter take on a holiday favorite.
- Broccoli Cheddar Twice Baked Potatoes: A comforting and cheesy potato dish.
- Air Fryer Cajun Potatoes: Spicy and crispy, a flavorful alternative.
- Stovetop Green Beans with Almonds: Simple, elegant, and delicious.
- Garlic Herb Mushrooms: A versatile and aromatic addition to any meal.
For even more culinary inspiration, be sure to explore the extensive Side Dishes section of my recipe index, where you’ll find countless ideas to brighten your table.
Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake
This Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake is an easy and fun fall side dish, perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or dinner at home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 55 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Yield: 8 (rounded ¾ cup) servings
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Ingredients
- 3 medium apples, peeled and chopped into cubes (Gala, Empire, Honeycrisp, or Fuji recommended)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 lbs cubed uncooked butternut squash, cut into ¾” – 1” cubes (pre-cut is a great time-saver!)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 2 ⅓ tablespoons real maple syrup, divided (2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon)
- 6 slices center-cut bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and chopped apples with the lemon juice, stirring gently to ensure the apples are lightly coated to prevent browning. Add the butternut squash cubes and mix again. Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper over the squash and apples, then add the vanilla extract. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly coated with the seasonings.
- In a separate small, microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter. Once melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of the real maple syrup. Pour this maple butter mixture over the squash and apples, stirring again to ensure everything is evenly coated. Transfer the entire mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish (or similar size) and spread it out into an even layer. Cover the baking dish snugly with aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the butternut squash is fork-tender.
- While the squash and apples are baking, cook the center-cut bacon according to package instructions until it is perfectly crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Once slightly cooled, chop the crispy bacon into small pieces. Place the chopped bacon in a small bowl, drizzle it with the remaining 1 teaspoon of maple syrup, and stir to coat evenly.
- After 45 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Uncover it and evenly sprinkle the maple-coated bacon pieces across the top of the tender squash and apples. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes. This final baking step allows the bacon to sizzle and crisp up further, and ensures the squash and apples are thoroughly cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Notes & Nutritional Information
- To view your current WW Points for this recipe and track it in the WW app or site, click here!
- WW Points per (rounded ¾ cup) serving: 3* (Points calculated using the recipe builder in the WW app).
- *or 5 Points if following the diabetic WW plan.
- Nutrition Information per (rounded ¾ cup) serving:
156 calories, 31 g carbs, 15 g sugars, 5 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 2 g protein, 5 g fiber, 116 mg sodium (from myfitnesspal.com) - Weight Watchers Points Plus:
4 per (rounded ¾ cup) serving (PP calculated using a Weight Watchers PointsPlus calculator and the nutrition info) - Adapted from A Cedar Spoon
Author: Emily Bites
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Tips for Perfecting Your Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake
Achieving the ideal balance of flavors and textures in this bake is easy with a few expert tips. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, these suggestions will help you make this dish a resounding success every time.
- Evenly Sized Chunks: Ensure your butternut squash and apple cubes are roughly the same size (¾” to 1”). This uniformity is crucial for even cooking, preventing some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
- Don’t Skimp on the Coating: Take the time to thoroughly coat the squash and apples with the lemon juice, spices, and maple butter mixture. This ensures every bite is infused with flavor and helps create a lovely caramelized crust during baking.
- Snug Cover for Tenderness: When baking covered, make sure your aluminum foil or lid is snug. This traps steam, helping the squash and apples become perfectly tender without drying out.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: For the best results, cook your bacon until it’s very crispy before chopping and adding it to the bake. This provides a delightful textural contrast and prevents it from becoming chewy in the final dish. A good crisp bacon will hold its texture after being coated with maple syrup and baked again briefly.
- Caramelization Check: The final 5-10 minutes of uncovered baking are vital. Keep an eye on the dish to ensure the bacon gets properly sizzled and a beautiful, slightly caramelized surface forms on the squash and apples. This adds depth of flavor and visual appeal.
Delicious Variations to Explore
While the classic Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with these exciting variations to tailor it to your personal taste or available ingredients.
- Nutty Crunch: For an added layer of texture and flavor, consider sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts over the top along with the maple bacon during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. These nuts add a delightful crunch and a complementary earthy note.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the warm spice profile by adding a pinch of ground nutmeg, allspice, or even a tiny dash of cloves along with the cinnamon. These spices will deepen the autumnal aroma and taste.
- Herbal Infusion: For a more savory and sophisticated twist, finely chop a sprig of fresh rosemary or sage and mix it in with the squash and apples before baking. These herbs pair wonderfully with both butternut squash and bacon.
- Sweeter Side: If you desire a slightly sweeter bake, you can substitute a portion of the maple syrup with brown sugar in the initial coating. Alternatively, use a sweeter apple variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can replace the savory crunch with toasted breadcrumbs, crushed spiced pecans, or even roasted chickpeas for a similar textural element. A drizzle of smoked paprika or liquid smoke can also mimic a smoky flavor.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This versatile Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake makes an excellent accompaniment to a wide array of main courses, enhancing any meal with its seasonal charm.
- Holiday Centerpiece: It’s a natural fit for your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, pairing beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib.
- Weeknight Delight: Elevate a simple roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even grilled salmon with this flavorful side.
- Brunch Star: Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, or a quiche for a hearty and satisfying brunch.
- Salad Booster: Add any leftovers to a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a delicious and substantial fall salad.
Embrace the flavors of the season with this incredibly satisfying and relatively healthy side dish. The Maple Bacon Butternut Squash and Apple Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the warmth and comfort of autumn in every delightful bite. Its irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and smoky makes it a perfect choice for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family dinners. We hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it does to ours. Happy cooking!