Why make this recipe
Crockpot Caramelized Butternut Squash and Apples is a delicious and easy dish to make. It brings together the sweet flavors of butternut squash and apples, creating a cozy, warm meal perfect for fall or winter. Cooking it in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal side dish for busy days. The caramelization gives the ingredients a wonderful richness that everyone will enjoy.
How to make Crockpot Caramelized Butternut Squash and Apples
Making this recipe is simple and requires just a few steps. You will prepare the ingredients, mix a tasty sauce, and let the crockpot do the work. Here’s how to do it.
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Place the cubed butternut squash and chopped apples in the crockpot.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the squash and apples, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious dish!
How to serve Crockpot Caramelized Butternut Squash and Apples
You can serve this warm dish as a side with roasted meats or as a sweet addition to a fall-themed meal. It also pairs well with grains like quinoa or rice for a cozy vegetarian option.
How to store Crockpot Caramelized Butternut Squash and Apples
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Crockpot Caramelized Butternut Squash and Apples
- Make sure to cut the butternut squash into even cubes for even cooking.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste.
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling some nutmeg or ginger into the mix.
Variation
You can add some nuts like walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch. Also, try using different varieties of apples for a change in flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen butternut squash?
A: Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used, but it may cook faster, so keep an eye on it!
Q: How can I make it vegan?
A: Simply replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute or coconut oil.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare everything the day before and cook it on the day you plan to serve it. Just adjust cooking time as needed if the ingredients are already chilled.
Crockpot Caramelized Butternut Squash and Apples
- Total Time: 315 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy fall dish combining sweet flavors of butternut squash and apples, cooked to perfection in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place the cubed butternut squash and chopped apples in the crockpot.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the squash and apples, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 240 to 300 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious dish!
Notes
Make sure to cut the butternut squash into even cubes for even cooking. Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar used.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: butternut squash, apples, crockpot recipe, fall recipes, vegetarian side dish
