Name: Devastating Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

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Okay, friends, let’s talk about *the* side dish that’s about to rock your autumn! I’m talking about cheesy bacon butternut squash. Seriously, if you’re looking for something that’s sweet, savory, smoky, and ridiculously easy, you’ve landed in the right spot. I’ve been playing around with butternut squash for ages, trying to find the perfect way to make it, you know, not boring. And trust me, this is IT.

I remember one Thanksgiving where I was in charge of the veggies (again!). I wanted something different, something that would actually get people excited. So, I started thinking about the flavors I love—bacon (duh!), cheese (double duh!), and that lovely sweetness from butternut squash. A little experimentation, a few “oops, too much cheese!” moments, and BAM! Cheesy bacon butternut squash was born. It’s kinda my signature move now.

This isn’t some fussy recipe that takes all day. We’re talking simple ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes you look like a culinary genius, even if your cooking skills are more “can boil water” than Cordon Bleu. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes? Forget about it! You’ll be drooling before it even hits the table.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Seriously, what’s not to love? This cheesy bacon butternut squash is a total winner, and here’s why:

Quick and Easy Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

I’m all about easy recipes, and this one fits the bill. Minimal prep, simple steps, and before you know it, you’ve got a show-stopping side. Trust me, even on a busy weeknight, you can pull this off!

Irresistible Flavor Combination in this Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Sweet butternut squash, salty bacon, melty cheese… need I say more? It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited! The flavors just *work* together. It’s kinda magical, really.

A Family-Friendly Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash Side Dish

Getting kids to eat veggies can be a struggle, right? But mine gobble this up! The bacon and cheese definitely help, but hey, whatever works, right? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, from toddlers to grandparents.

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Forget boring sides! This cheesy bacon butternut squash is festive, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests. It’s become a holiday staple in my house, and I bet it will in yours too!

Ingredients for Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Alright, gather ’round! Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing cheesy bacon butternut squash. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty straightforward stuff:

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed. (Yep, that’s the whole shebang!)
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled. (Crispy is key, folks!)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. (I like a sharp cheddar, but you do you!)
2 cloves garlic, minced. (Because everything’s better with garlic, right?)
1 tablespoon olive oil. (For that lovely roasting action.)
½ teaspoon dried thyme. (Adds a little something special!)
Salt and pepper to taste. (Don’t be shy!)

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, time to get cooking! Don’t be intimidated – this cheesy bacon butternut squash is seriously easy. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be golden (and cheesy!). I promise!

Preparing the Butternut Squash for Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

First things first, let’s tackle that squash. Now, peeling a butternut squash can be a *little* tricky. I usually chop off the ends, then use a good, sharp vegetable peeler to get the skin off. Once it’s peeled, scoop out the seeds (like you would a pumpkin), and then chop it into bite-sized cubes. Toss those cubes in a large bowl with the olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Get everything nicely coated – that’s where the magic starts!

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Roasting the Butternut Squash for Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important! Spread the seasoned squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd it, or it’ll steam instead of roast. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender. You should be able to easily pierce it with a fork. That’s how you know it’s ready!

Adding Bacon and Cheese to the Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Alright, the squash is roasted – now comes the fun part! Take the baking sheet out of the oven and sprinkle that glorious crumbled bacon all over the squash. Then, pile on the shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy – we want it nice and cheesy!

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Baking the Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash to Perfection

Pop the baking sheet back into the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, because you don’t want the cheese to burn. Once it’s melted and gorgeous, take it out and serve immediately. Seriously, try not to eat it all straight from the pan!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Want to take your cheesy bacon butternut squash from “good” to “OMG amazing”? Here are a few of my go-to tricks!

Choosing the Right Butternut Squash for Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size. The skin should be a nice, solid beige color and hard to the touch. Avoid any squash with soft spots or bruises. Those are tell-tale signs it’s past its prime. Trust me, a good squash makes *all* the difference!

Getting Crispy Bacon for Your Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Crispy bacon is non-negotiable, folks! I like to cook mine in a skillet over medium heat until it’s perfectly crisp. Then, I let it cool slightly before crumbling it. You can also bake your bacon in the oven – just lay the strips on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) until crispy. Careful, it splatters!

Cheese Selection for Delicious Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Cheddar is classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Gruyere adds a nutty, sophisticated flavor. Monterey Jack is super melty and mild. A little sprinkle of Parmesan after it comes out of the oven? *Chef’s kiss!* It’s really up to you and your cheese preferences!

Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash Variations

Okay, you’ve nailed the basic recipe. Now, let’s get a little crazy! This cheesy bacon butternut squash is super versatile, so feel free to play around with it. Here are some of my favorite tweaks:

Spice Up Your Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Want a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a fantastic touch of heat. Or, try a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor. Ooh, or a little cayenne pepper! Just be careful not to overdo it – a little goes a long way!

Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash with Different Cheeses

Cheddar’s great, but have you tried Gruyere? It’s got this nutty, almost earthy flavor that’s amazing with the squash. Monterey Jack is another winner – it’s super melty and mild. Honestly, any good melting cheese will work!

Vegetarian Cheesy Butternut Squash

Okay, so obviously, the bacon’s out. But don’t worry, you can still make an awesome vegetarian version! Try adding some toasted pecans or walnuts for a little crunch and nutty flavor. Or, some caramelized onions would be amazing! You won’t even miss the bacon (maybe!).

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Okay, so you’ve got this amazing cheesy bacon butternut squash… now what do you serve it with? Well, it’s pretty versatile! It’s fantastic with roasted chicken or pork. I also love it alongside a good steak. And for a vegetarian option? Try it with a lentil loaf or a hearty grain bowl. Yum!

Storing and Reheating Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your cheesy bacon butternut squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Or, if you’re impatient like me, a quick zap in the microwave works too! Just watch it so the cheese doesn’t get rubbery.

FAQ About Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are a few things folks often ask me about this cheesy bacon butternut squash. Don’t worry if you’re a newbie, these are easy!

Can I use pre-cut butternut squash for this Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time (and who isn’t?), pre-cut butternut squash is a lifesaver. Just make sure it looks fresh and isn’t dried out. It’ll work just as well!

Can I make Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash ahead of time?

Yep! You can totally prep this cheesy roasted butternut bake in advance. Just toss the squash with the oil and seasonings, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, sprinkle on the bacon and cheese and pop it in the oven. Easy peasy!

What other cheeses can I use in Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash?

Ooh, so many options! Gruyere adds a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack is super melty, and Fontina is creamy and delicious. Seriously, experiment! A little goat cheese crumbled on top after baking? Don’t mind if I do!

Nutritional Information for Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Okay, so you’re probably wondering about the nutritional deets, right? Here’s a rough estimate per serving: Around 250 calories, 15g fat, 8g protein, and 20g carbs. Of course, this is just a ballpark figure – it all depends on how much bacon and cheese you pile on! But hey, it’s butternut squash… that’s gotta count for *something* healthy, right?

Enjoy Your Cheesy Bacon Butternut Squash

Okay, go make this! And when you do, pretty please come back and tell me what you think? Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or even better, share a pic on Insta! I wanna see your cheesy bacon butternut squash creations!