The Easiest Thanksgiving Turkey

This turkey recipe is originally from an old Martha Stewart Magazine, where I learned to cook my very first turkey in my young 20s, and it has never failed me! I’ve added lemon zest, more herbs, and a bit more garlic to bump up the flavor, but other th…

herb butter roasted turkey.
This turkey recipe is originally from an old Martha Stewart Magazine, where I learned to cook my very first turkey in my young 20s, and it has never failed me! I've added lemon zest, more herbs, and a bit more garlic to bump up the flavor, but other than that, I've kept it pretty similar. Over the years, I strayed away, overcomplicating things with brines, basting, and stuffing, and well, now I'm back to the basics, right where I started. Funny how that happens!

Creamed Kale

This easy Creamed Kale recipe has the creamiest, cheesiest sauce that’ll convert even the biggest kale skeptics. Ready in just 30 minutes!

The post Creamed Kale appeared first on Budget Bytes.

There are plenty of kale haters out there, but I’m not one of them. Quite the opposite, in fact! I LOVE kale. But if you share your table with some kale skeptics, give my recipe for Creamed Kale a try, and I guarantee you’ll convert at least one of them! The sauce is smooth and creamy (but not too heavy), and the kale still has a little bite to it. This easy side is ready in just 30 minutes and is a family-friendly way to enjoy this nutrient-packed leafy green!

Overhead view of creamed kale in a square-shaped dish.

As I said, I love kale! I love to grow it, I love to massage it with vinaigrette and eat it raw, I love to use it in pesto, I love to steam it, heck… I even love to work it into bouquets of flowers here on our farm! Kale forever, in all its forms! So, when it comes to the holidays, you already know this easy creamed kale recipe is going to be on our table.

What is Creamed Kale?

This recipe is a twist on the classic creamed spinach. I blanch fresh kale in boiling water for a few minutes to give it that perfect texture—not too raw, but not overcooked and mushy, either. Then I make a simple creamy sauce using salted butter, onion, garlic, half ‘n half, and seasonings. The kale gets stirred into the sauce with a sprinkling of Parmesan, left to simmer for a few minutes, and voila! Creamed kale is born. It’s a delicious veggie side for any meal and an easy way to add more greens to your diet!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this homemade creamed kale recipe:

  • Kale: I use fresh kale, specifically Lacinato kale (also known as ‘Dinosaur Kale’ due to its bumpy appearance resembling the skin of a dinosaur!). Yes, it’s a little more expensive, but I much prefer the texture of Lacinato in this recipe. But that said, you can totally use regular curly kale, too. Be sure to remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  • Yellow Onion & Garlic: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
  • Salted Butter: Softens the onion and sautés the garlic, adding richness to the creamy sauce.
  • Seasonings: Nutmeg and red pepper flakes add warmth and a tiny bit of heat to balance out the creaminess. I also add salt when cooking the onions, and then I season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Half ‘n Half: I add this to the sauce to create a creamier and richer consistency. Be sure to use room temperature half ‘n half to avoid curdling when added to the hot pan.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds an irresistible, nutty, cheesy flavor that perfectly complements the earthy kale.

Can I Make it Dairy-Free?

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can easily swap the butter for vegan butter and the half ‘n half for coconut milk. If you’re going to use coconut milk, you could even add some curry powder to the mix! Holy YUM!

Top Tip!

If your sauce isn’t thickening up enough, don’t add cornstarch or flour; add ½ tsp of vinegar! Whisk, whisk, whisk, and watch your cream turn nice and thick fast. Essentially, it’s like making your own buttermilk, but I promise it’ll yield a thicker and creamier sauce if you find it needs a little help. I also love the brightness a little vinegar adds to just about any dish.

Can I Use Frozen Kale?

I much prefer fresh kale in this recipe, but you can use frozen kale if that’s all you have to hand. Be sure to thaw it fully in the refrigerator and squeeze out excess liquid before using. There’s also no need to blanch it if the kale was already blanched before freezing. Just note the texture of your creamed kale will likely be softer and less firm compared to using fresh kale.

Storage Instructions

This recipe is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through. I recommend adding a splash of half ‘n half if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

Side view of creamed kale in a squash-shaped serving platter.
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Creamed Kale Recipe

This easy Creamed Kale recipe has the creamiest, cheesiest sauce that'll convert even the biggest kale skeptics. Ready in just 30 minutes!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Total Cost ($8.18 recipe / $1.02 serving)
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 8 servings (½ cup per serving)
Calories 68kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 bunches kale* $5.38
  • ¼ tsp salt, divided $0.01
  • 2 Tbsp salted butter $0.16
  • ½ yellow onion, julienned (thinly sliced) $0.47
  • 1 clove garlic, minced $0.03
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes $0.03
  • tsp nutmeg $0.03
  • ½ cup half 'n half, room temperature $0.84
  • 3 Tbsp Parmesan cheese $1.23

Instructions

  • De-stem and rinse kale in cold water.
  • Coarsely chop kale and blanch in boiling water seasoned with ⅛ tsp salt for about 3 min. Quickly transfer kale to an ice bath to maintain color. Set aside.
  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining ⅛ tsp salt and the julienned (thinly sliced) onion.
  • Cook until softened. Then, add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg and cook another 2 minutes.
  • Add the room temperature half 'n half over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens to a sauce consistency, about 5 minutes.
  • Add kale and Parmesan cheese and toss to coat and let it soften, about 5 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from the heat. Transfer to your favorite casserole dish or serving plate to serve.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*I used Lacinato Kale (aka Dinosaur Kale), but this recipe works with curly kale, too. I didn’t love the texture of curly kale as much with this soft, rich sauce, so I decided to splurge on Lacinato kale. I was willing to spend a little extra to see my family gobble up all of this creamed kale!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (½ cup per serving) | Calories: 68kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 156mg | Fiber: 1g
Overhead view of creamed kale in a square-shaped dish.

how to make Creamed Kale – step by step photos

Hands removing the stems from a leaf of kale.

De-stem and rinse 2 bunches of kale in cold water.

Tongs holding blanched kale over a bowl of iced water.

Coarsely chop kale and blanch in boiling water seasoned with ⅛ tsp salt for about 3 min. Quickly transfer kale to an ice bath to maintain color. Set aside.

Sliced onions in a skillet.

Melt 2 Tbsp salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the remaining ⅛ tsp salt and the julienned (thinly sliced) ½ an onion.

Sauted sliced onions in a skillet with seasonings and garlic added.

Cook until softened. Then, add the 1 clove minced garlic, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, and ⅛ tsp nutmeg and cook another 2 minutes.

A hand pouring half and half into a skillet with sliced onions and seasonings.

Add ½ cup room temperature half ‘n half over medium heat.

Creamy onion sauce for creamed kale in a skillet.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens to a sauce consistency, about 5 minutes.

Blanched kale with parmesan cheese added to a creamy sauce in a skillet.

Add the blanched kale and 3 Tbsp Parmesan cheese and toss to coat and let it soften, about 5 minutes.

Finished creamed kale in a skillet.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from the heat. Transfer to your favorite casserole dish or serving plate to serve.

Overhead view of creamed kale in a serving dish.

Enjoy this smooth, cheesy creamed kale with your favorite protein for a well-rounded and delicious dinner!

The post Creamed Kale appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad

This Pear, Celery and Pecan salad is the only pear salad recipe you need this holiday season. Easy to make, refreshing, and full of flavor!

The post Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad appeared first on Budget Bytes.

This Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad is the perfect healthy side dish for the holidays. With all the ultra-rich foods that typically grace our holiday tables, having a nice seasonal salad is a pro move! I drizzle ripe pears, fresh greens, and crunchy candied pecans with a spiced balsamic vinaigrette to create a slightly sweet but oh-so-refreshing pear salad. Top it off with a little parmesan, and I guarantee this will be your new favorite winter salad!

Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad in a serving bowl.

I feel confident saying you can trust me when it comes to salads. (After all, I opened Nashville’s first raw plant-based restaurant back in 2015!)

This winter pear salad takes seasonal ingredients and makes them shine in the best way possible. The pears are juicy and sweet, while the celery is refreshingly crunchy, and the pecans add a delicious nutty flavor. Then, the vinaigrette, made with balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, and warming spices, ties every element together perfectly. This is one salad that won’t be just an afterthought on your holiday menu this year! 😉

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this pear, celery and pecan salad recipe:

  • Pears: I like Bartlett and Anjou pears (I also use these varieties in my pear galette recipe!), but any type of pear will work. Choose pears that are ripe but still firm.
  • Celery: Use fresh, crisp celery and dice it finely for a nice crunch in each bite.
  • Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness and some extra color to the salad. I recommend slicing it into matchsticks (a technique known as a julienne cut) for the best texture and flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: Coat your sliced pears in lemon juice to stop them from browning too quickly.
  • Mixed Greens: Any leafy salad will work, so choose what is readily available and what you like. I buy a pre-mixed bag of mixed greens whenever I make this salad.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated parmesan for maximum flavor. You can leave this out if you’re dairy-free or vegan—it’s just as delicious without it!
  • Candied Pecans: I followed Beth’s candied pecans recipe but didn’t use the egg whites to save time and money. This also means my candied pecans are totally vegan. Feel free to purchase pre-made if you’re short on time.
  • Balsamic Vinegar & Olive Oil: This is the base of the spiced vinaigrette. We’re working on a budget here, so you don’t need to use the best balsamic or olive oil. A mid-range option works just fine!
  • Spices & Seasonings: I use a blend of warming, fall/winter-inspired spices like allspice, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. They give this pear and pecan salad the best seasonal flavor.
  • Maple Syrup: Just a touch of maple syrup gives this salad a subtle sweetness without being overly sugary.
  • Garlic: Gives the dressing an extra boost of flavor and nutrients. I mince it finely before adding it to the dressing.

What Else Can I Add?

Whenever I can reduce food waste and add extra nutrients to a dish, I do it! Here are some optional topping ideas for this pear pecan salad:

Top Tip!

The dressing in this recipe is known as a ‘temporary emulsion,’ so the olive oil and balsamic vinegar will eventually separate. I recommend slowly streaming in the olive oil as you whisk or using a blender (pour in the oil slowly as the machine runs) when making the spiced vinaigrette. I’d also wait until just before serving to toss the salad with the dressing. If your dressing does separate, just give it a good shake or whisk before using.

Storage Instructions

This salad with pears is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days in a pinch. However, the pears will soften and brown the longer it’s stored. If possible, I’d wait to dress the salad and slice the pears until just before serving. Tossing the pears in a little lemon juice will help slow the browning, but they will still brown!

When stored separately, the spiced vinaigrette will be good for up to 3-4 days (just give it a good shake or whisk before using). The homemade candied pecans will last for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. As for the mixed greens, celery, and red onion, it depends on how fresh they were to begin with! Around 3-5 days is a good estimate for peak freshness, but always use your best judgment.

Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad on a black plate.
Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad in a serving bowl.
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Pear, Celery and Candied Pecans Salad Recipe

This Pear, Celery and Pecan salad is the only pear salad recipe you need this holiday season. Easy to make, refreshing, and full of flavor!
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Total Cost ($12.22 recipe / $2.44 serving)
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 5 salads (about 2 cups each)
Calories 375kcal

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • ½ cup candied pecans, chopped* $1.67
  • 4 stalks celery, diced $0.20
  • ½ red onion, julienned (finely sliced) $0.54
  • 2 pears, sliced thin $2.64
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice $0.03
  • 1 6 oz bag mixed greens $2.73
  • 5 Tbsp shredded Parmesan $1.35

Spiced Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients

  • ½ tsp allspice $0.08
  • 1 tsp cinnamon $0.08
  • ½ tsp salt $0.01
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.01
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced $0.06
  • ¼ tsp ground ginger $0.06
  • 3 Tbsp maple syrup $0.72
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar $0.49
  • ½ cup olive oil $1.55

Instructions

  • Chop candied pecans, dice celery and julienne (finely slice) red onion. Slice pears and toss the pear slices in lemon juice to prevent browning. Transfer all to a covered bowl and refrigerate.
  • Prepare the salad dressing by whisking allspice, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, ginger, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar together. Stream in the olive oil in at the end to make a temporary emulsion. You can also use a blender, slowly streaming the oil in while the blades are running.
  • Add mixed greens to a bowl with the previously prepared chopped candied pecans, diced celery, sliced red onion, and sliced pear. Drizzle the cinnamon vinaigrette on top just before serving.
  • Toss to coat the salad with the vinaigrette.
  • Top with the shredded parmesan and serve!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

* I adapted Beth’s Candied Pecans recipe to omit egg whites which ended up saving a little money and extra time in the oven. Because there’s no egg, there’s no need to bake these in the oven unless you want them extra toasty. In which case, 10 minutes at 350 will do the trick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about 2 cups) | Calories: 375kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 28g | Sodium: 399mg | Fiber: 4g
Overhead close up of pear celery and pecan salad in a bowl with parmesan.

how to make Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad – step by step photos

Diced candied pecans, celery, red onion, and pears on a wooden chopping board.

Chop ½ cup candied pecans, dice 4 stalks celery and julienne (finely slice) ½ red onion. Slice 2 pears and toss the pear slices in 1 Tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning. Transfer all to a covered bowl and refrigerate.

Spiced vinaigrette being whisked in a bowl with olive oil being poured in.

Prepare the salad dressing by whisking ½ tsp allspice, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 2 cloves minced garlic, ¼ tsp ground ginger, 3 Tbsp maple syrup, and ¼ cup balsamic vinegar together. Stream in ½ cup olive oil in at the end to make a temporary emulsion. You can also use a blender, slowly streaming the oil in while the blades are running.

Pear, celery, and pecans salad in a bowl with dressing being poured on top.

Add a 6 oz bag mixed greens to a bowl with the previously prepared chopped candied pecans, diced celery, sliced red onion, and sliced pear. Drizzle the cinnamon vinaigrette on top just before serving.

Pear, celery and pecan salad being tossed in a bowl.

Toss to coat the salad with the vinaigrette.

Pear, celery and pecan salad topped with Parmesan in a bowl.

Top with 5 Tbsp shredded parmesan and serve!

Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad in a serving bowl.

With tender pears, crisp celery, and crunchy candied pecans, this easy pear salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

The post Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Jammy Roasted Ketchup

My kitchen counter is still covered with all stages of ripening tomatoes, which seems crazy for the beginning of November! I made this homemade ketchup the other day in preparation for a yummy meatloaf recipe (coming), and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Learn how to make the most flavorful Homemade Ketchup using your homegrown garden tomatoes! Roasting brings out their sweetness. In a hurry? Check out our quick cheater version below.
My kitchen counter is still covered with all stages of ripening tomatoes, which seems crazy for the beginning of November! I made this homemade ketchup the other day in preparation for a yummy meatloaf recipe (coming), and I can't wait for you to try it!

Creamed Corn

Making Creamed Corn from scratch is easier than you think! This delicious side is perfect for the holidays and made with simple ingredients.

The post Creamed Corn appeared first on Budget Bytes.

One of my favorite sides to load up on at the holiday dinner table is Creamed Corn! This budget-friendly side dish is made with minimal ingredients and is so easy to prepare. It’s rich, buttery, cheesy, and tastes way better than the canned stuff. As a veggie-lover who grew up in a family of meat eaters, I’ve grown accustomed to filling my holiday dinner plate with all the sides and skipping the meat. (Don’t feel bad for me—I’ve got way more tricks up my sleeve now regarding plant-based proteins and veggie mains!) But seriously, this easy recipe never disappoints. I guarantee you won’t have any leftovers!

Overhead view of creamed corn in a sauce pan garnished with fresh parsley.

What is Creamed Corn?

Homemade creamed corn is made from corn kernels cooked in a creamy sauce until they become tender, juicy, and flavorful. You can purchase it in a can, but this is typically labeled as ‘cream-style corn’ because the sauce doesn’t usually contain any cream! Instead, it often relies on the starch from the corn to create a creamy texture. (Yes, corn is both a starch and a grain—it just depends on how it’s processed!) However, nothing beats the taste and texture of this side dish when made from scratch.

For this recipe, I create a roux from butter and flour, then add half & half, seasonings, fresh corn (frozen works, too!), and Parmesan cheese to make it extra decadent. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy. If you love corn pudding, you’ll definitely love this dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best creamed corn recipe ever:

  • Corn: I used fresh corn for this recipe, but frozen corn works just as well. Fresh has a little more crunch and sweetness, but frozen is convenient and still delicious. If using fresh, I recommend using a sharp knife to cut the corn kernels off the cob.
  • Sugar: This is a classic ingredient in cream corn. It adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
  • Flour: Combines with the butter to create a roux, which thickens the cream sauce.
  • Salted Butter: Makes the sauce rich and flavorful.
  • Half and Half: Adds creaminess to the sauce without being too heavy. (If you’re avoiding dairy, you can also make this with the same amount of full fat coconut milk plus dairy-free substitutes for the butter and cheese.)
  • Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings to compliment the sweet corn and cheesy sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Nothing compares to the nutty, salty flavor of shredded Parmesan cheese in this recipe. It adds an indulgent and umami (savory) element that the canned stuff can’t compete with!

Should I Use Fresh Or Frozen Corn?

Both work perfectly well! It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what’s available. When testing this recipe for creamed corn, the corn at Walmart cost $0.50 cents per ear. The cost of the store-brand frozen whole-kernel corn (about 4 cups) was $2.94. Because the difference was negligible, I went with fresh because I prefer the texture to have a little more bite. If you’re going to use frozen, your cooking time will be significantly less, so make sure your sauce is spot on before adding the (rinsed!) frozen corn to your pan.

How to Tell When the Sauce is Thick Enough

Your creamy sauce should have thickened to a gravy-like consistency and coat the back of a spoon before adding the corn (see my process photos below for a visual reference). It’ll continue to thicken up as it cooks with the corn added in. If your sauce is too thin, allow it to cook a little longer. If it’s thick but you want to thin it out, add a splash of half and half until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

When I say you can serve this corn with pretty much anything, I mean it! Serve it up for Thanksgiving with turkey breast and all your favorite trimmings, like green bean casserole. It also pairs well with BBQ ribs and homestyle cornbread! It’s a fun, year-round side and perfect for any occasion—not just the holidays!

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Let them cool before storing, and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little half and half if the sauce thickens too much when reheated. You can also freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months. I’d let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Side view of creamed corn in a serving dish with a wooden spoon taking some.
Overhead view of creamed corn in a sauce pan garnished with fresh parsley.
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Creamed Corn Recipe

Making Creamed Corn from scratch is easier than you think! This delicious side is perfect for the holidays and made with simple ingredients.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Total Cost $5.29 recipe / $0.66 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8 servings (½ cup each)
Calories 137kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 ears of corn (or 4 cups of frozen corn) $3.00
  • 5 Tbsp salted butter $0.60
  • 1 Tbsp flour $0.01
  • 1 cup half & half $0.89
  • 1 Tbsp sugar $0.02
  • ½ tsp salt $0.01
  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
  • ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese $0.74

Instructions

  • Husk and shave your ears of corn and set aside. If using frozen corn, rinse it well, strain, and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt salted butter and add flour and whisk together over medium heat to make a light roux.
  • Add half & half, sugar, salt and pepper and whisk together until smooth.
  • Cook down until a gravy-like sauce forms.
  • Add corn, tossing until completely coated. Cook for 5-8 minutes, until the corn is cooked but still has some crunch. (Cook time will be significantly less if you're using frozen, so taste often!) Take the pan off the heat and stir in the shredded Parmesan until melted.
  • Serve and enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (½ a cup) | Calories: 137kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 320mg | Fiber: 0.1g
Side view of creamed corn in a serving dish garnished with fresh parsley.

how to make Creamed Corn – step by step photos

Butter and flour being whisked together in a saucepan to make a roux.

Husk and shave 6 ears of corn and set aside. If using 4 cups of frozen corn, rinse it well, strain, and set aside. In a saucepan, melt 5 Tbsp salted butter, add 1 Tbsp flour, and whisk together over medium heat to make a light roux.

Milk, salt, and pepper added to a roux in a saucepan.

Add 1 cup half & half, 1 Tbsp sugar, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper and whisk together until smooth.

The sauce for creamed corn in a sauce pan with a spoon checking the thickness.

Cook down until a gravy-like sauce forms.

Corn kernels added to the cream sauce for creamed corn in a saucepan.

Add corn, tossing until completely coated. Cook 5-8 minutes, until the corn is cooked but still has some crunch. (Cook time will be significantly less if you’re using frozen, so taste often!)

Parmesan added to creamed corn in a saucepan.

Take the pan off the heat and stir in ½ cup shredded Parmesan until melted.

Creamed corn in a saucepan.

Serve and enjoy!

Overhead view of creamed corn in a serving dish garnished with fresh parsley.

This delicious cream corn recipe couldn’t be easier to make. Serve it as a side dish at your next holiday feast or potluck, and watch it disappear!

The post Creamed Corn appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Candied Yams

The sweet sugar glaze on these Candied Yams are simply irresistible. It’s the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering.

The post Candied Yams appeared first on Budget Bytes.

It’s no secret how much I love sweet potatoes, but Candied Yams are indeed my favorite Thanksgiving side dish. It’s made with sweet potatoes that are prepared and baked in a sweet and decadent sugar glaze that soaks into every single bite. It’s a special dish that I always make for the holidays and there’s usually never any leftovers. I also love that it’s made with simple ingredients that I almost always have in my pantry. So if you’re looking for a classic, budget-friendly, side dish to make this holiday season, these candied yams are one the entire family will love!

Overhead view of candied yams in a white serving dish.

What Are Candied Yams?

Candied yams are sweet potatoes that are baked in a sweet, syrupy, brown sugar glaze. Hence the name “candied” yams. But technically sweet potatoes and yams are not the same thing. Although they are both root vegetables and sometimes shaped similarly, there are still distinct differences. Yams have a dark brown skin, a rough exterior, and oftentimes a white flesh. They also have more of an earthy flavor and are not as sweet as sweet potatoes. It’s pretty common to see sweet potatoes mislabeled as yams in grocery stores these days; and now both names are often used interchangeably.

Ingredients For Candied Yams

Here’s what you need to make this easy & delicious candied yams recipe:

  • Sweet Potatoes: You’ll need roughly 2.5 to 3 lbs. of sweet potatoes. If you want to cut your sweet potatoes in uniform even rounds, try to purchase sweet potatoes that are long and narrow versus large and bulky.
  • Brown Butter: My secret ingredient for these candied yams is brown butter. Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty, caramel flavor which compliments the rest of the ingredients perfectly!
  • Sugar: A combination of dark brown sugar and granulated white sugar provides the perfect balance of sweetness. 
  • Spices: Classic warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla provide a powerful flavor punch.
  • Orange Juice: Just a small amount of fresh squeezed orange juice makes the sugar glaze really pop!

Should You Boil The Sweet Potatoes First?

Luckily you don’t have to boil the sweet potatoes first before making candied yams. Although par-boiling the sweet potatoes would help them cook faster, this recipe tastes much better when the potatoes are slow baked in the oven so they can soak up all of that yummy sweet glaze.

Recipe Tips!

  1. Make sure to keep an eye on your butter when it’s browning. As soon as it starts to turn a golden brown color, add the rest of the ingredients or remove the pot from the heat to prevent the butter from burning.
  2. You don’t have to cut your sweet potatoes into rounds. You can chop them into large chunks instead. Just make sure not to cut them too thin. You want them to be on the thicker side so they hold their shape well while baking.
  3. Reducing the sugar glaze after the sweet potatoes have finished cooking is totally optional, but I love the glossy finish that it gives the candied yams.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. The butter and sugar mixture will thicken as it chills. To reheat, just place the candied yams in a saucepan over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F, or reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

Close up side view of candied yams.
Overhead view of candied yams in a white serving dish.
Print

Candied Yams

The sweet sugar glaze on these Candied Yams are simply irresistible. It’s the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering.
Course Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Total Cost $7.99 recipe / $1.33 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 483kcal

Ingredients

  • 2.5 lb. sweet potatoes (about 4 medium sweet potatoes) $3.56
  • 1/2 cup butter $1.12
  • 3/4 cup dark brown sugar $0.75
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar $0.20
  • 1 tsp cinnamon $0.10
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg $0.05
  • 1/4 tsp salt $0.02
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract $1.20
  • 1 orange, juiced $0.99

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into ½ inch thick rounds. Place the sweet potatoes into a greased 3 quart casserole dish or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Add the butter to a small light-colored pot. Heat the pot over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter solids turn golden brown and develop a nutty aroma (it will first become foamy, then the solids will sink to the bottom and turn brown).
  • As soon as the butter turns golden brown add the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir together until smooth.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and add the vanilla extract and 2 Tbsp fresh squeezed orange juice. Stir until combined.
  • Pour the sugar glaze over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish. There is no need to stir the potatoes at this point. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes remove the foil and gently stir the sweet potatoes to redistribute the glaze. Move some of the potatoes that are at the bottom to the top. Bake for another 30 minutes uncovered or until the sweet potatoes are fork tender.
  • This step is optional, but recommended. With a slotted spoon, transfer the candied yams to a separate serving dish. Add the remaining sugar glaze to a small pot over medium heat. Bring the pot to a simmer for about 5 minutes or until the glaze has reduced and thickened.
  • Pour the thick glaze back over the sweet potatoes and serve.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 483kcal | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Sodium: 331mg | Fiber: 6g
Close up overhead view of candied yams.

How to Make Candied Yams – Step by Step Photos

Chopped sweet potatoes on a cutting board.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Wash, peel, and cut 2.5 lb. sweet potatoes into ½ inch thick rounds. Place the sweet potatoes into a greased 3 quart casserole dish or a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Browned butter in a small pot.

Add 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) to a small light-colored pot. Heat the pot over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter solids turn golden brown and develop a nutty aroma (it will first become foamy, then the solids will sink to the bottom and turn brown).

Sugar added to brown butter.

As soon as the butter turns golden brown add 3/4 cup dark brown sugar, 1/2 cup white sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir together until smooth.

melted sugar glaze in a pot

Remove the pot from the heat and add 2 tsp vanilla extract and 2 Tbsp fresh squeezed orange juice. Stir until combined.

Glaze being poured over candied yams.

Pour the sugar glaze over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish. There is no need to stir the potatoes at this point. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Cooked candied yams in a baking dish.

After 30 minutes remove the foil and gently stir the sweet potatoes to redistribute the glaze. Move some of the potatoes that are at the bottom to the top. Bake for another 30 minutes uncovered or until the sweet potatoes are fork tender.

Reducing sugar glaze in a small pot.

This step is optional, but recommended. With a slotted spoon, transfer the candied yams to a separate serving dish. Add the remaining sugar glaze to a small pot over medium heat. Bring the pot to a simmer for about 5 minutes or until the glaze has reduced and thickened.

Finished candied yams in a baking dish.

Pour the thick glaze back over the sweet potatoes and serve. Now just sit back and get ready to impress all of your family and friends with these decadent and delicious candied yams.😋

Close up view of candied yams.

The post Candied Yams appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Apple Crumble

This easy Apple Crumble recipe is a classic for a reason! Full of warmly spiced, caramelized apples and a crunchy, buttery crumble topping.

The post Apple Crumble appeared first on Budget Bytes.

There’s something nostalgic about apple desserts (and there are so many to choose from!), but let me tell you, this recipe for Apple Crumble is the easiest of them all! You can whip it up in a flash and reserve the rest of your time for snuggling on the couch. Crisp, juicy sliced apples are mixed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger and baked under a buttery crumble topping. It’s the perfect autumn dessert to warm your heart and fill your belly on a budget!

Overhead view of apple crumble on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

When I was growing up, one of our favorite family traditions was apple picking! My mom would load the whole family into the car, and we would hit the road to Tougas Family Farm (a huge pick-your-own farm in Northborough, MA about an hour west of Boston, with tons of fun things for kids to do). And I’m telling you, no apple tastes as good as one you’ve picked yourself!

You might have noticed my cozy fall recipe posts always mention my family, particularly my mom. My mom is a proud New Englander, and autumn is when she really comes alive! I had the best childhood, and I reflect on it the most during the fall. So, I highly recommend you Google search “pick-your-own apples” in your area, find a farm, and go for it! Then, you have no excuse not to try this easy apple crumble recipe. 😉

What Is Apple Crumble?

Apple crumble is a classic British dessert with layers of sliced apples and a crumble topping made from flour, sugar, and butter. It has all the comforting flavors of apple pie but with much less effort! I make my crumble filling with Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, cornstarch, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger to create a caramelized and warmly spiced bottom layer. Whether you serve it with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream, just know you’re in for a treat.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe for apple crumble:

  • Salted Butter: Combines with the flour and sugar to create the crumble topping. Use salted butter to balance the sweetness from the sugar, and make sure it’s chilled! Room-temperature butter won’t create the same crumbly texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: For making the topping.
  • Light Brown Sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor to the topping and apple filling.
  • Salt: Just a pinch for flavor.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice or Apple Pie Spice: You can use either spice blend to flavor the topping. Pumpkin pie spice is made from cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Apple pie spice is typically a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice but may also include ginger and/or cardamom. Pick whichever sounds best to you!
  • Granny Smith Apples: I like using Granny Smith apples in my baking because their natural tartness offsets the overpowering sweetness of the sugar. If you don’t usually bake with green apples, give it a try! Be sure to wash them if you’re keeping the skin on.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens the filling and helps create a syrupy texture.
  • Ground Cinnamon & Ginger Powder: You don’t need much (just a teaspoon of each), but they add some fall flavor to the apples.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens up the filling and keeps the apples from browning.

Can I Use A Different Type of Apple?

I love how Granny Smith apples taste in apple crumble. They’re tart, firm, and hold up well during baking. I’ve also tailored the other ingredients in this recipe to complement their natural flavor. However, if you prefer a sweeter apple or have a different type on hand, feel free to use it! I recommend using a crisp, firm apple that will hold its shape during baking. Some other popular baking apples include Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Braeburn. I recently tried a “Rosalee” apple for the first time this fall (while apple picking in Massachusetts, of course!) and it was one of the best things I’ve ever tasted—another great varietal!

Apple Crumble vs Apple Crisp

Apple crisp and crumble both feature baked apples topped with a crumbly buttery topping. However, apple crisp usually contains oats in the topping, while crumble traditionally doesn’t (although there are many variations of both nowadays!). Other than that, the preparation and baking processes are pretty much the same. They’re both delicious and perfect for fall!

Tips for the Best Crumble Topping

  1. Your butter has to be COLD. I recommend cutting it into small cubes and keeping it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
  2. You want small clumps of butter, sugar, and flour throughout the topping, not a uniform mixture. My step-by-step photos below show what it should look like. Overmixing can create a denser, less crumbly topping.
  3. I always flash-freeze the unbaked crumble topping for 10 minutes before adding it to the apples. This is another trick to make sure the topping stays crumbly and holds its shape. The crumble bakes up light and crisp instead of sinking into the apples.
  4. I’ve kept this recipe traditional with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. However, for a fun twist, you could try adding nuts to your apple crumble topping! Pecans, sliced almonds, or chopped walnuts would all make great additions.

Storage Instructions

Once your crumble has cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap/foil or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and reheat in the oven to re-crisp the topping before serving. The microwave also works if you don’t mind a slightly softer topping.

Overhead view of apple crumble in a rectangular baking dish.
Overhead view of apple crumble on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Print

Apple Crumble Recipe

This easy Apple Crumble recipe is a classic for a reason! Full of warmly spiced, caramelized apples and a crunchy, buttery crumble topping.
Course Dessert
Cuisine English
Total Cost ($7.42 recipe / $0.61 serving)
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 12 servings (about ½ a cup each)
Calories 170kcal

Ingredients

Crumble Topping

  • 6 ½ Tbsp salted butter, chilled and diced (½ Tbsp reserved to butter your dish) $0.97
  • cup all-purpose flour $0.08
  • cup light brown sugar $0.18
  • ¼ tsp salt $0.01
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice $0.19

Filling

  • 5 medium granny smith apples, cored (about 2 lbs) $5.00
  • cup packed light brown sugar $0.18
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch $0.05
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon $0.16
  • 1 tsp ginger powder $0.45
  • tsp salt $0.01
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice $0.14

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° F and butter a baking dish (my dish was 8×10”), set aside for now. Add salted butter, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, and pumpkin pie spice/apple pie spice to a medium size mixing bowl.
  • Firmly mix crumble ingredients together by hand, breaking it up into little pieces, and freeze for 10 minutes.
  • Peel most of your apples (I left the skin on a few apples because I think it’s a nice little color pop) and slice into thin 1/8” slices.
  • Place your sliced apples in a mixing bowl and add light brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger powder, salt, and lemon juice.
  • Toss filling ingredients together and pat down into the baking dish. Then, add frozen crumble on top.
  • Bake for 40-45 min or once the crumble on top turns golden brown.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 170kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 126mg | Fiber: 2g
Overhead view of apple crumble in a rectangular baking dish with a portion missing.

how to make Apple Crumble – step by step photos

Cubed butter, flour, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a mixing bowl.

Preheat oven to 350° F and butter a baking dish with ½ Tbsp salted butter (my dish was 8×10”), set aside for now. Add 6 Tbsp salted butter, ⅔ cup all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup light brown sugar, ¼ tsp salt, and 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice/apple pie spice to a mixing bowl.

Apple crumble topping in a mixing bowl.

Firmly mix crumble ingredients together by hand, breaking it up into little pieces, and freeze for 10 minutes.

Sliced granny smith apples in a mixing bowl.

Peel most of your 5 medium granny smith apples (I left the skin on a few apples because I think it’s a nice little color pop) and slice into thin 1/8” slices.

Sliced granny smith apples in a mixing bowl with sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon.

Place your sliced apples in a mixing bowl and add ⅓ cup light brown sugar, 1 Tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp ginger powder, ⅛ tsp salt, and 2 Tbsp lemon juice.

Apple crumble ingredients assembled in a rectangular baking dish.

Toss filling ingredients together and pat down into the baking dish. Then, add frozen crumble on top.

Baked apple crumble in a rectangular baking dish.

Bake for 40-45 min or once the crumble on top turns golden brown.

Overhead view of apple crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a plate with a fork taking some.

This homemade apple crumble recipe has the perfect ratio of crumble to apple filling, and it couldn’t be easier to make!

The post Apple Crumble appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Egg Roll in a Bowl

Love egg rolls? This delicious Egg Roll Bowl is easy to make in one pan! A healthy, vegan, low-carb dinner that tastes just like an egg roll! Meat-adaptable.

Love egg rolls? This delicious Egg Roll Bowl is easy to make in one pan! A healthy, vegan, low-carb dinner that tastes just like an egg roll! Meat-adaptable.

Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

This Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is tender, flavorful, and the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table or any special occasion.

The post Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Alright friends, say goodbye to the hassle of making a whole turkey for the holidays, and hello to this simple and easy Roasted Turkey Breast recipe. It’s infused with lots of moisture and flavor and it’s made in half the time. I started buying turkey breasts for Thanksgiving years ago because my family simply couldn’t eat a whole turkey. So turkey breasts were the perfect solution! Half the prep time, half the cook time, and less food waste. And did I mention it’s also a gorgeous centerpiece for your holiday feast? I have a feeling this might be your go-to turkey recipe for all of your special occasions. ;)

Overhead view of sliced turkey breast on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon slices as a garnish.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you need to make this tender, flavorful, turkey breast recipe:

  • Herbed Butter: A lot of the flavor for the turkey breast comes from the brine and from the herb-infused butter. We used a combination of rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt and pepper to flavor the butter. I had extra fresh rosemary left over from my brine, so that’s what I used, but feel free to use dried herbs and spices if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Bone-In Turkey Breast: I am using a 5.5 lb. bone-in turkey breast with the skin on, but you can also use a boneless turkey breast.

How Long Do You Cook A Turkey Breast?

The time it takes to cook a turkey breast will vary slightly depending on the size of the turkey. A good rule of thumb is to cook the turkey for roughly 15 minutes per pound. Always use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. The internal temperature should reach 165°F at the thickest part of the breast without touching the bone.

Bone-in vs. Boneless

I tested this recipe with both a bone-in and boneless turkey breast. Both delivered great flavor but there was 1 key difference:

  • Presentation: After purchasing 2 different brands of boneless turkey breasts, I noticed the skin on boneless turkey breasts were very loose, barely hanging on, and sometimes half missing. Once cooked the final presentation was not as appealing as the bone-in turkey breast. If this is not a huge concern for you then no worries, it will still have great flavor. But on a special holiday like Thanksgiving, I really want my turkey to not only taste good but also look good too! ;)

How Do You Keep The Turkey From Being Dry?

The best way to ensure you have juicy and tender turkey breast meat is to brine the turkey. I’ve tried to skip this step a few times in the past, but it really does make all the difference! A turkey breast brine will not only give the turkey moisture, but it also adds extra flavor throughout the entire breast. Don’t forget to rinse and dry the turkey breast after it is done brining. This removes any excess salt from the turkey and prevents it from being too salty.

Tips For Cooking A Turkey Breast!

  1. If your turkey breast is frozen, make sure to thaw it first in the refrigerator overnight or according to the package instructions before brining or roasting it.
  2. I definitely recommend brining your turkey breast for tender meat and the absolute best flavor throughout the breast.
  3. Dry the turkey breast really well to remove any excess moisture. It’s hard for the herb butter to stick to the breast when it is wet.
  4. If the turkey is getting too brown on the top while it’s roasting, place a loose piece of aluminum foil on top of the breast as it continues to bake.
  5. And don’t forget to save those turkey drippings so you can make a super flavorful homemade turkey gravy to serve on the side.
Side view of a cooked turkey breast on a white platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon.
Overhead view of sliced turkey breast on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon slices as a garnish.
Print

Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

This Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is tender, flavorful, and the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table or any special occasion.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Total Cost $21.49 recipe / $3.58 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 693kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 Tbsp butter, room temperature $1.12
  • 2 cloves of garlic, pressed $0.16
  • 1/2 tsp salt $0.03
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.03
  • 1.5 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped* $0.75
  • 1 tsp dried thyme $0.10
  • 1/2 tsp dried sage $0.05
  • 5.5 lb. bone-in turkey breast (skin on)** $19.25

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl add the room temperature butter, garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Mix them together until they form a paste.
  • Dry the turkey breast very well with a paper towel on all sides. Use your hand to carefully separate the skin from the breast meat, leaving it intact on the sides, and creating a pocket to fill with the herb butter.
  • Spread about 1/3 of the herb butter under the skin. Spread the remaining herb butter on top of the skin and all over the exterior of the turkey breast.
  • Place the turkey breast in a greased deep casserole dish or roasting pan. Transfer the dish to the oven and roast the turkey for about 1 hr 30 min, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. My turkey was ready right around 1 hr 20 minutes. Baste the turkey breast every 30 minutes with the pan drippings.
  • Begin to check the internal temperature of the turkey after 1 hour. If the top of the breast begins to brown too much before the internal temperature reaches its mark, loosely cover the turkey with foil as it bakes. Make sure to test the temperature in the thickest part of the breast, without touching the bone.
  • Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with turkey gravy and your favorite sides. Enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*Substitute ½ tsp of dried rosemary for fresh rosemary.
**A 5-6 lb. bone-in turkey breast would work for this recipe.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 693kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 89g | Fat: 38g | Sodium: 1131mg | Fiber: 0.1g
overhead view of a roasted turkey breast on a white platter with thanksgiving sides around the platter.

How to Make A Roasted Turkey Breast – Step by Step Photos

Ingredients for herb butter in a small bowl.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl add 8 Tbsp room temperature butter, 2 pressed garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, 1 1/2 tsp fresh chopped rosemary, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp dried sage.

Herb butter ingredients mixed together.

Mix them together until they form a paste.

Drying turkey breast with a paper towel.

Dry a 5-6 lb. bone-in, skin on, turkey breast very well with a paper towel on all sides.

Spreading herb butter under the skin of turkey breast.

Use your hand to carefully separate the skin from the breast meat, leaving it intact on the sides, and creating a pocket to fill with the herb butter. Spread about 1/3 of the herb butter under the skin.

Turkey breast fully covered with herb butter placed inside a large baking dish.

Spread the remaining herb butter on top of the skin and all over the exterior of the turkey breast. Place the turkey breast in a greased deep casserole dish or roasting pan. Transfer the dish to the oven and roast the turkey for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.

Cooked roasted turkey breast inside baking dish.

Baste the turkey breast every 30 minutes with the pan drippings. Begin to check the internal temperature of the turkey after 1 hour. If the top of the breast begins to brown too much before the internal temperature reaches its mark, loosely cover the turkey with foil as it bakes. Make sure to test the temperature in the thickest part of the breast, without touching the bone.

Overhead view of sliced turkey breast on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon slices as a garnish.

Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with turkey gravy and your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Roasted turkey breast with mashed potatoes and green beans on a serving plate.

The post Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Stuffed Butternut Squash

This easy Stuffed Butternut Squash recipe is filled with Italian sausage, veggies, seasonings, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for the holidays!

The post Stuffed Butternut Squash appeared first on Budget Bytes.

This Stuffed Butternut Squash is one of my go-to recipes when I have a bunch of family in town for the holidays. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies, but it still pleases the meat lovers. It’s versatile, too; it’s so easy to swap the Italian sausage with a vegetarian meat substitute! The stuffing is savory and cheesy, while the squash is perfectly soft and slightly sweet from the maple syrup marinade. It’s such an easy main or side dish, and everyone I make it for always loves it!

Overhead view of stuffed butternut squash on a parchment lined baking tray.

What is Stuffed Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash is one of my favorite seasonal veggies. It’s delicious when roasted, mashed, or turned into butternut squash soup. But have you ever tried stuffing it? I’m telling you, it takes this humble veggie to a whole new level! I brush the squash halves in a maple syrup, olive oil, and garlic marinade before roasting until slightly tender. While that’s happening, I sauté celery, onion, seasonings, and ground mild Italian sausage. After mixing in some spinach and shredded cheese, I pile the filling into the roasted squash halves and bake until bubbly. The result is a perfect combination of savory and sweet—your holiday spread needs this!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this stuffed butternut squash recipe:

  • Butternut Squash: I use two butternut squash (about 2 lbs each) for this recipe. You’ll need to slice them in half and remove the seeds before stuffing. However, unlike other stuffed butternut squash recipes I’ve tried, you don’t need to scoop out ANY flesh. We want to retain all that delicious squash flavor!
  • Yellow Onion & Celery: Adds flavor and texture to the filling.
  • Ground Mild Italian Sausage: Use mild, ground Italian sausage for this recipe for a nice, savory flavor. But if you prefer spicier, go ahead and use hot Italian sausage instead! Vegetarian? I’ve included some of my favorite alternatives below.
  • Olive Oil: For sautéing the onion, celery, and ground sausage.
  • Seasonings: Salt, chili flakes, poultry seasoning (a pre-mixed blend of herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary), and black pepper amp up the flavor of the filling.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I recommend shredding your own cheddar, if possible, as it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese (which is usually coated in starch to prevent clumping).
  • Spinach: I’m all about sneaking in extra veggies wherever I can! The spinach adds some extra nutrients and a pop of green color to this dish.
  • Maple Marinade: Mix maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper together and brush it over the squash before roasting. It tastes so much better than simply drizzling oil over the squash and adds a hint of sweetness!

Make It Vegetarian

If you don’t eat meat, you can swap out the ground sausage in this recipe for your favorite vegetarian alternative. Veggie ‘meat’ crumbles are an easy option (substitute the ground sausage with this on a 1:1 basis), or you could use cooked wild rice and chopped walnuts like in our stuffed acorn squash recipe!

Recipe Tips & Suggestions!

  • I recommend slicing off the top of the squash to create a flat surface before cutting it in half, as advised in our how to cut butternut squash guide. It makes it much easier to cut through the squash!
  • Be careful not to over OR under bake your butternut squash during the parbaking step. You want it to be slightly tender but not too soft or too hard.
  • Don’t be afraid to overstuff your butternut squash! It’s meant to be a hearty, filling meal or side dish. I love how the filling mounds on top, and the cheese gets golden and crispy.
  • Want to use a different type of squash? You can easily swap out butternut squash for other varieties like acorn, delicata, or spaghetti squash. I think the filling in this recipe would also work great in our stuffed zucchini boats! Just keep in mind the cooking time may need to be altered if using smaller or larger squash.

How to Serve

This recipe is more than enough to serve 8 people. Each squash half provides 2 servings, but you can absolutely serve the halves whole for a more generous portion for 4 people. And while the skin is edible, I prefer to scoop out the filling and leave the skin behind.

I’ll be serving it for my family with my shaved sprouts salad and a crusty roll for a delicious, veggie-packed meal this fall. However, I think you should make it for Thanksgiving this year and watch it steal the show! Load up your plate with turkey breast, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and this stuffed butternut squash for the ultimate holiday feast!

Storage Instructions

Let your stuffed butternut squash cool before wrapping it in plastic wrap (or storing it in an airtight container). It should last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or 2-3 months in the freezer. Let it thaw completely overnight before reheating in the oven at 350F for about 30 minutes. Make sure the filling reaches an internal temperature of 165F before serving. Cover with foil if needed to prevent the top from browning too much, and keep in mind the texture may be slightly softer after freezing.

Overhead view of stuffed butternut squash on a plate.
Overhead view of stuffed butternut squash on a baking tray.
Print

Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

This easy Stuffed Butternut Squash recipe is filled with Italian sausage, veggies, seasonings, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for the holidays!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Total Cost ($13.05 recipe / $1.63 serving)
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 8 servings (¼ squash and ½ scoop of filling per person)
Calories 394kcal

Ingredients

Stuffed Squash Ingredients

  • 2 butternut squash (about 2 lbs each) $5.12
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil $0.19
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup) $0.70
  • 4 stalks celery, diced (about 1 cup) $0.32
  • ½ tsp salt $0.01
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes $0.06
  • ½ tsp poultry seasoning $0.11
  • tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.01
  • 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage $3.75
  • 3 cups spinach $0.99
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar, divided $0.98

Marinade Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp maple syrup $0.48
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil $0.19
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced $0.12
  • ¼ tsp salt $0.01
  • tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.01

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400F. Cut butternut squash in half length-wise, leaving the skin on. You can cup off the stem to make it easier to cut in half. Seed squash and puncture sides with a fork.
  • Whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Brush the flesh of the squash with the maple marinade mixture.
  • On a lined baking sheet, pre-bake the squash (before stuffing) for 35 minutes, until the flesh is soft and easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart or mushy. If the neck of the squash is still a bit raw, cook an additional 5 min.
  • While the squash is pre-baking, prepare your filling: Combine olive oil, diced onion, diced celery, salt, chili flakes, poultry seasoning, and black pepper in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook until glossy and softened, about 8 minutes.
  • Then, add the ground sausage to the pan and break it up with a spatula. Cook the sausage until completely browned.
  • Stir in fresh spinach.
  • Cook until spinach is wilted, a few minutes, and then add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring to combine.
  • Stuff each cavity of butternut squash with ¼ of the filling. Top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese. These should be overly full!
  • Once stuffed, bake for an additional 15-20 min until cheese on top is slightly browned and melted.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 394kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 26g | Sodium: 759mg | Fiber: 5g
Overhead view of stuffed butternut squash on a baking tray.

how to make Stuffed Butternut Squash – step by step photos

2 butternut squash sliced in half on a wooden chopping board, one with seeds removed.

Preheat oven to 400F. Cut 2 butternut squash in half length-wise, leaving the skin on. You can cup off the stem to make it easier to cut in half.

A fork poking hole in the skin of 4 halved butternut squash on a wooden chopping board.

Seed squash and puncture sides with a fork.

Oil, maple syrup, garlic and seasonings in a bowl.

Whisk together 2 Tbsp maple syrup, 1 Tbsp olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, ¼ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp pepper.

2 halved butternut squash on a wooden chopping board being brushed with maple marinade.

Brush the flesh of the squash with the maple marinade mixture.

4 par baked butternut squash halves on a baking tray.

On a lined baking sheet, pre-bake the squash (before stuffing) for 35 minutes, until the flesh is soft and easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart or mushy. If the neck of the squash is still a bit raw, cook an additional 5 min.

Diced onion and celery in a pan with seasonings.

While the squash is pre-baking, prepare your filling: Combine 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 diced onion, 4 stalks diced celery, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp chili flakes, ½ tsp poultry seasoning, and ⅛ tsp black pepper in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook until glossy and softened, about 8 minutes.

Ground sausage added to softened vegetables in a pan, being broken up by a spatula.

Then, add 1 lb ground sausage to the pan and break it up with a spatula.

Browned ground sausage and vegetables in a pan.

Cook the sausage until completely browned.

Spinach added to ground sausage mixture in a pan.

Stir in 3 cups fresh spinach.

Shredded cheddar added to stuffing mixture for stuffed butternut squash in a pan.

Cook until spinach is wilted, a few minutes, and then add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring to combine.

A hand sprinkling stuffed butternut squash with shredded cheese.

Stuff each cavity of butternut squash with ¼ of the filling. Top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese. These should be overly full!

Stuffed butternut squash on a baking sheet.

Once stuffed, bake for an additional 15-20 min until cheese on top is slightly browned and melted.

Side view of stuffed butternut squash on a plate.

I think you should make this sausage stuffed butternut squash recipe for your next family gathering—it’s sure to be a hit!

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