Learn how to make tender, flavorful braised butternut squash perfect as a fall side dish using simple ingredients like sage and maple.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop Braising
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
4 fresh sage leaves
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the cubed butternut squash and sliced onion to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until the squash begins to lightly brown on the edges.
Add the fresh sage leaves to the pot. Stir for 1 minute until the sage is fragrant.
Pour in the broth and maple syrup. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let the squash braise for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.
Remove the lid. Increase the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly into a light glaze.
Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to coat the squash evenly before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular melted butter. Melt the butter slowly until the milk solids toast and turn brown.
If you prefer a sweeter side dish, increase the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons.
This recipe works well in a slow cooker; cook on low for 3 to 4 hours after an initial 10-minute sear on the stovetop.