Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie

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Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey – Sweet, Savory & Irresistibly Cozy

This warm autumn dish combines tender caramelized squash, creamy Brie, crunchy pecans, and a spicy-sweet hot honey drizzle. It’s a flavor-packed side or appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Introduction: A Fall Favorite with a Gourmet Twist

Butternut squash is one of fall’s most beloved ingredients, and this recipe takes it to a whole new level. By caramelizing the squash with butter and brown sugar, then pairing it with melty Brie, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of hot honey, you get a dish that’s rich, balanced, and bursting with seasonal flavor.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for Thanksgiving, a starter for a cozy dinner party, or a vegetarian main with crusty bread, this Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:

For the Caramelized Squash:

  • Diced butternut squash (3 cups / 400g)
    Sweet, nutty, and perfect for caramelizing.
  • Olive oil (1 tbsp / 15ml)
    Adds depth and helps brown the squash.
  • Butter (1 tbsp / 14g)
    Rich and golden—essential for caramelization.
  • Brown sugar or maple syrup (1½ tbsp / 20g)
    Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
  • Salt & black pepper (¼ tsp each)
    Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • Optional spices: cinnamon or smoked paprika (¼ tsp)
    Adds warmth or a smoky kick.

Toppings:

  • Brie (4 oz / 115g, cubed or sliced)
    Creamy and indulgent—melts beautifully over warm squash.
  • Toasted pecans (⅓ cup / 35g, chopped)
    Crunchy and nutty—adds texture and richness.
  • Fresh thyme (optional)
    Earthy and aromatic—perfect for garnish.

For the Hot Honey Drizzle:

  • Honey (2 tbsp / 30ml)
    Sweet and sticky—base of the drizzle.
  • Red pepper flakes (¼–½ tsp / 1–2g)
    Adds heat and contrast.
  • Lemon juice (1 tsp / 5ml, optional)
    Brightens and balances the sweetness.

Optional: Add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra complexity.

Equipment Needed

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Serving plate
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Squash

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Add:

  • 3 cups diced squash
  • 1½ tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ¼ tsp cinnamon or smoked paprika

Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:

  • Squash is tender
  • Edges are golden and caramelized

Step 2: Prepare Hot Honey

In a small bowl, mix:

  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ¼–½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Warm for 10–15 seconds in microwave or on stove to thin.

Step 3: Assemble

Transfer warm squash to a serving plate.

Top with 4 oz Brie—let it soften and melt slightly.

Sprinkle with ⅓ cup toasted pecans.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

Drizzle generously with hot honey.

Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Serve immediately while warm.

Yields:

  • 4 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve on a rustic platter with extra thyme sprigs and a drizzle of honey around the edges.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday side dishes
  • Vegetarian main courses
  • Elegant appetizers
  • Cozy fall dinners

Pair with:

  • Roasted chicken or turkey
  • Wild rice or quinoa
  • A glass of Chardonnay or spiced cider

Tip: Serve with toasted baguette slices or crackers for scooping.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Garlic Herb

Add minced garlic and rosemary to the skillet.

Apple & Squash

Add diced apple for extra sweetness and texture.

Bacon Boost

Top with crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and dairy-free Brie alternatives.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Caramelize squash and prep toppings up to 1 day in advance. Assemble just before serving.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently in skillet or oven at 325°F until heated through.

Tip: Drizzle fresh hot honey after reheating for best flavor.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 4)

  • Calories: ~220
  • Protein: ~6g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~14g
  • Sugar: ~10g
  • Sodium: ~180mg
  • Fiber: ~2g

This dish is:

  • Sweet and savory
  • Creamy and crunchy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors, cozy textures, and simple elegance. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a quiet dinner at home, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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