Butternut Squash Bake With Cheese And Bacon

Looking for a fuss-free, hearty meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this Butternut Squash Bake with Cheese and Bacon! This tray bake is a lifesaver for busy evenings when you need something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Perfectly balanced with the sweetness of butternut squash, the smokiness of bacon, and the tang of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s also incredibly simple to make. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-have in your recipe arsenal.

What is a tray bake meal?

A sheet pan dinner, also known as a tray bake meal, is a culinary marvel that simplifies mealtime without skimping on flavour or nutrition. It involves arranging all the ingredients for a meal on a single baking sheet or tray and then roasting them together in the oven. This method not only minimizes prep work and cleanup but also allows the flavours to meld together beautifully as the ingredients roast. It’s a fuss-free approach to cooking that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. So, in essence, a sheet pan dinner or tray bake meal is a game-changing solution for creating wholesome, homemade meals with ease. And this Butternut Squash Bake perfectly exemplifies the convenience and versatility of sheet pan dinners, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a quick and healthy meal solution.

Is butternut squash bake healthy?

This Butternut Squash Bake isn’t just a time-saving wonder—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. Butternut squash boasts a wealth of vitamins such as A, C, and E, along with minerals like potassium and magnesium, all of which contribute to overall well-being. Rich in antioxidants, it supports a healthy immune system and may even help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Opting for nitrate-free bacon ensures you’re avoiding potentially harmful additives while still enjoying the smoky goodness, and choosing low-fat cheddar keeps the dish light without skimping on flavour. Combined with a medley of herbs and spices, this bake not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nourishes the body, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Do you have a diet restriction?

This butternut squash tray bake with cheese and bacon is:

• Gluten Free
• Nut Free
• Low Fat
• Ultra Processed Food Free

Ultra processed food free recipes are recipes that use ingredients where no additives have been used. This will include ingredients that can be made at home to be UPF free such as stock cubes, sauces and seasonings.

Step 1:

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C. Next, peel and dice the butternut squash into bite-sized chunks. Cut the red pepper into large chunks and thinly slice the onion. This ensures even cooking and uniformity in your dish.

Step 2:

Spread the diced butternut squash on a roasting tray or baking sheet, drizzling with a bit of oil if desired. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial step gives the squash a head start in cooking, allowing it to develop a delicious caramelized flavour and crispy exterior.

Step 3:

While the butternut squash is roasting, mix together the sage, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. This aromatic blend will infuse the dish with layers of flavour and aroma. Add the chunky pepper and sliced onion to the roasting tray with the partially cooked squash along with all of the seasonings, mix well ensuring they are coated well and evenly distributed to promote even cooking. Return the tray to the oven and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the peppers and onions are tender and slightly crisp around the edges.

Step 4:

Now it’s time to add the crowning touches to your Butternut Squash Bake. Cut each bacon rasher in half and nestle them into the tray bake, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Next, generously cover the top of the vegetables with grated low-fat cheddar cheese. This creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is thoroughly cooked and the cheese is melted and golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as oven temperatures may vary.

Butternut squash bake variations:

1. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
2. Swap out the bacon for cooked chicken or turkey sausage for a higher protein option.
3. Stir in a handful of spinach or kale for added greens.
4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a tangy twist.
5. For a vegan version, omit the bacon and cheese, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour.

Butternut Squash Bake With Cheese And Bacon

HealthyHeartyWholesome

Indulge in the simplicity and wholesome goodness of this Butternut Squash Bake, a delightful sheet pan dinner that's as easy to make as it is delicious. Loaded with nutritious ingredients like butternut squash, red pepper, and nitrate-free bacon, this tray bake meal is a perfect balance of flavour and health. With aromatic herbs and low-fat cheddar adding depth, it's a satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favourite.

5 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American, British

Servings 2 mains

Calories 440 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 700 g butternut squash
• 1 red pepper
• 1 onion
• 6 slices nitrate-free bacon
• 50 g low-fat cheddar cheese
• 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 180°C. Peel and dice the butternut squash into bite-sized chunks. Cut the red pepper into large chunks and thinly slice the onion.
• Spread the butternut squash on a roasting tray and drizzle with a bit of oil. Bake the squash for 15 minutes to give it a head start.
• After 15 minutes, add the peppers and onions, seasonings and parmesan to the tray, mix well and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Cut the bacon rashers in half and arrange them in amongst the vegetables. Sprinkle grated low-fat cheddar over everything. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and golden.

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