There is something utterly magical about Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta. This dish is a beautiful fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that dance together effortlessly. The tender, caramelized butternut squash brings a mellow sweetness, while the bright cranberries add a pop of tartness, and the creamy feta cheese provides a salty richness that completes every bite. It’s a perfect side or light main that feels cozy yet elegant—ideal for sharing with family or friends any time of year.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this dish just right is all about choosing simple, fresh ingredients that complement one another perfectly. Each component plays its role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe unforgettable.

Butternut squash: A sweet, nutty vegetable which roasts beautifully to a tender, caramelized finish.
Olive oil: Ensures even roasting while adding a subtle richness and helping spices stick to the squash.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, fragrant spice to balance the squash’s sweetness.
Nutmeg: A hint of this spice complements the cinnamon and deepens the autumnal profile.
Fresh or dried cranberries: Offer bursts of tart juiciness that contrast the mellow squash.
Feta cheese: Crumbled over the top for a salty, creamy texture and tangy punch.
Fresh parsley (optional): A touch of fresh green color and mild herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish.

How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Squash

Start by peeling and cubing two medium butternut squashes, aiming for even pieces so they roast uniformly. In a large bowl, drizzle the chunks with olive oil and sprinkle the salt, black pepper, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss everything together thoroughly—this seasoning blend is the flavor backbone of the dish, infusing warm and comforting notes into the squash.

Step 2: Roast the Squash

Spread the seasoned butternut squash in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Roast it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready once the squash is tender all the way through and its edges start to get beautifully caramelized.

Step 3: Add Cranberries During the Final Moments

Five minutes before the squash finishes roasting, scatter the cranberries evenly over the top and return the baking sheet to the oven. This step allows the cranberries to soften and warm without losing their vibrant bite and color—adding a lovely tart contrast to the sweet squash.

Step 4: Top with Feta and Warm Through

Once the squash and cranberries are done roasting, remove the pan briefly to sprinkle crumbled feta cheese across the entire dish. Pop it back in the oven for another 5 minutes. This warms the feta just enough to soften it slightly without melting it completely, resulting in wonderful creamy pockets of flavor dispersed throughout.

How to Serve Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of green, enhancing both the dish’s appearance and its fresh, mild herbal notes. It’s the perfect finishing touch that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta shines beautifully alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a hearty meal. You can also serve it with a bed of quinoa or wild rice for a vegetarian-friendly feast, where the contrasting textures complement each other perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning holiday or dinner party side, serve the squash mixture on a large platter, topped with extra feta and parsley. You can also stuff it inside warm pita pockets or toss it into a fresh green salad for an unexpected twist. Either way, this dish’s vibrant colors and enticing aromas are sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful dish, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully after resting, though the feta may firm up slightly. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze roasted butternut squash with cranberries and feta, but keep in mind that the texture of the squash softens further once thawed, and the feta may change consistency. For best results, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in an ovenproof dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the squash tender and maintains the integrity of the cranberries and feta. Avoid microwaving when possible to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Both fresh and dried cranberries work well. Fresh cranberries will burst with juiciness while roasting; dried ones add chewy tartness. Just sprinkle them on in the final roasting minutes as usual.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or toasted nuts like pistachios or walnuts. This keeps the texture contrast and adds a delicious nutty element.

How do I know when the butternut squash is fully cooked?

The squash is ready when it’s fork-tender and has turned a lovely golden brown around the edges. Roasting at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes usually achieves this perfectly.

Can I prepare the squash and seasoning ahead of time?

You certainly can. Prepping and tossing the squash with oil and spices hours ahead, then refrigerating it covered until ready to roast, actually helps the flavors deepen. Just bring it to room temperature before roasting for the best results.

What other cheeses could I use besides feta?

If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese or ricotta salata. Both provide a creamy, slightly tangy note that complements the squash and cranberries beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is something so delightfully satisfying about preparing and enjoying Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta. It’s a dish that balances cozy and sophisticated in every bite, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with warmth and flavor. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes when you want a side or light meal that feels truly special.