This Sweet & Savory Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash is enhanced by a drizzle of honey, while cinnamon adds warmth and depth. The addition of crumbled goat cheese brings a creamy richness, and toasted walnuts offer a satisfying crunch. Whether served at a family dinner, holiday gathering, or as a healthy weeknight side, this dish is a beautiful combination of flavors and textures that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.

Last Updated February 18th, 2025.

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Why You’ll Love this Side Dish Recipe:

Naturally Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile and safe choice for those with dietary sensitivities. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a regular family dinner, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Balanced Sweet & Savory Flavor: The combination of sweet honey, warm cinnamon, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts creates a perfectly balanced dish that brings together both sweet and savory elements in each bite. It’s an irresistible flavor combination!
Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple roasting steps, this dish offers an impressive presentation without the fuss. It’s the perfect side dish for holiday meals, dinner parties, or a cozy night in with family.
Nutrient-Packed: Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, and walnuts add healthy fats and a boost of protein, making this side dish both nutritious and flavorful—a great choice for both your taste buds and your health.

honey roasted butternut squash goat cheese and walnuts

Ingredient Notes:

Butternut Squash:
- Choose a firm squash with smooth skin and no soft spots for the best flavor and texture. Peel, seed, and cut it into even-sized pieces for consistent roasting. Butternut squash brings a naturally sweet, nutty flavor that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Honey:
- Opt for high-quality honey, like raw or local varieties, for a richer flavor profile. Honey imparts natural sweetness and helps create a golden caramelized finish on the squash. If needed, maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative.
Garlic:
- Fresh minced garlic adds a robust, savory depth that balances the sweetness of the squash and honey. If you prefer a milder flavor, garlic powder works as a substitute, although it won’t add the same savory punch.
Cinnamon:
- Cinnamon adds warmth and a subtle spice that enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. Use it sparingly to ensure it doesn’t overpower the other flavors, achieving a balanced sweetness with aromatic depth.
Fresh Thyme:
- Fresh thyme offers an earthy, aromatic contrast to the sweet and savory flavors in the dish. It brightens up the flavor profile. If fresh isn’t available, dried thyme works as well—just use slightly reduced quantities.
Goat Cheese:
- Crumbled goat cheese adds a tangy contrast to the sweet butternut squash and honey. Its creamy texture cuts through the richness of the dish, adding depth. Feta is a great alternative, offering a similarly tangy flavor.
Walnuts:
- Walnuts complement the soft texture of the squash and the creamy goat cheese, providing a satisfying crunch. You can also use pecans or almonds for a slightly different nutty flavor. Toasting the walnuts lightly before use enhances their flavor and texture.

Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:

To Make Gluten-Free:
- This dish is naturally gluten-free. Simply ensure that any optional toppings or maple syrup are certified gluten-free to keep it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
To Make Dairy-Free:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute goat cheese with dairy-free cheese or a vegan cheese alternative that crumbles. You can also try toasted pine nuts for a nutty, dairy-free topping. Swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
To Make Vegan:
- To make this dish vegan, replace the goat cheese with a vegan cheese like cashew-based cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version. Use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based butter substitute for a fully vegan option.
To Make Nut-Free:
- If you need a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can toast them lightly for a similar crunch and texture.
To Make Low-Carb/Keto:
- For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, reduce or omit the brown sugar and use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener as a substitute.
To Make Paleo:
- To make this dish paleo, replace the goat cheese with paleo cheese or omit it all together, and use maple syrup instead of honey. Ensure that your butter is grass-fed or swap it for ghee.

Additional Substitutions & Variations:

Make It Spicier: For an added kick, sprinkle cayenne pepper or chipotle powder over the squash before roasting. This will create a nice contrast with the sweet honey and savory cinnamon flavors.
Add More Vegetables: For added nutrition and texture, include carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes alongside the butternut squash. Simply chop and toss them with the same seasoning mix for a root vegetable medley that compliment the squash.
Switch Up the Nuts: If you prefer a different nutty flavor, swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, pistachios, or even hazelnuts. Toasting the nuts before adding them will enhance their flavor and provide a satisfying crunch.
Add Dried Fruit: Incorporate a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to add a chewy texture and extra sweetness to the dish. This makes for a festive and colorful variation, perfect for holiday meals.
Use a Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can swap it for feta or blue cheese for a tangy alternative. If you prefer something milder, a few dollops of ricotta could work well for a creamy finish.
Make It Sweeter: If you like a sweeter version, add more honey or drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the finished dish. For a more indulgent twist, top it with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Add Fresh Herbs: In addition to fresh thyme, you can toss in some rosemary, sage, or even parsley to elevate the herbal notes and add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

goat cheese and walnut honey roasted butternut squash

roasted butternut squash with honey goat cheese and walnuts

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:

Cutting Butternut Squash:
- Use a sharp knife and peel the squash before cutting to make the process easier and safer. Cut the squash into even-sized cubes for consistent roasting and caramelization. Pre-cut squash is convenient, but freshly cut squash tends to have better texture and flavor.
Roasting Technique:
- Spread the squash pieces evenly on the baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause the squash to steam rather than roast, which reduces its ability to caramelize. Toss the squash halfway through roasting to ensure even browning and a beautifully crispy texture.
Honey Drizzle:
- To ensure even distribution, warm the honey slightly before drizzling over the squash. This helps coat each piece thoroughly and caramelize more evenly during roasting.
Toasting Walnuts:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor and crunch of the nuts. Be sure to watch closely, as nuts can burn quickly.
Balancing Flavors:
- Adjust the amount of honey and cinnamon to your taste. For a less sweet dish, use less honey. Adding a small pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the deeper flavors of the squash and goat cheese.
Cheese Addition:
- Add crumbled goat cheese after the squash has cooled slightly to avoid melting it completely. This helps retain the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the cheese. For an even distribution, gently mix half of the goat cheese into the squash and sprinkle the rest on top before serving.
Storage and Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven to retain the crispy texture. This dish is also delicious cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for salads or grain bowls.
Serving Suggestions:
- This Honey Roasted Butternut Squash pairs wonderfully with roast chicken, grilled pork, or even as a topping for a fall-inspired salad. For a heartier dish, serve it alongside a grain such as quinoa, farro, or rice for a complete meal. It’s also a great addition to your holiday feast or a just cozy dinner at home.

Roasted Butternut Squash FAQ’s:

Can I use frozen butternut squash?
- While fresh butternut squash gives the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen squash if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Can I roast other vegetables with the squash?
- Yes! You can easily add carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips alongside the butternut squash. Make sure the vegetables are cut to similar sizes so they roast evenly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Roast the squash, then let it cool before adding the goat cheese and walnuts. Store the roasted squash in the fridge for up to 3 days and top with cheese and nuts just before serving.
Can I use a different type of squash?
- You can substitute butternut squash with other winter squashes, like acorn squash or kabocha squash. Keep in mind that the texture and sweetness of the dish may vary slightly depending on the type of squash used.
How can I make this dish spicier?
- For a sweet and spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or chipotle powder when roasting the squash. These will balance the sweetness with a bold spicy kick.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain texture, or enjoy it cold as part of a salad or grain bowl.
Can I make this dish vegan?
- Yes, to make it vegan, substitute goat cheese with vegan cheese or omit it entirely. You can use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly dish.

walnut and goat cheese honey roasted butternut squash

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