Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish (about 23 × 33 cm / 9 × 13 inches).
- In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and carrots with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, and your choice of thyme or rosemary.
- Layer generously: Arrange the vegetables in overlapping layers in your baking dish, alternating colors for an eye-catching display. Press down gently to compact the layers.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the top is lightly caramelized.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, warm the cranberry sauce, honey, and orange juice over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle to serve: Once your bake is done, drizzle the warm cranberry-honey sauce over the top. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, crumbled cheese, or toasted nuts.
How to serve Layered Sweet Potato, Butternut Squash & Carrot Bake with Cranberry-Honey Drizzle
To really celebrate the beautiful colors and flavors of this dish, consider serving it as a centerpiece at brunch or dinner. Pair it with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. For an even heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken or turkey. Create a warm, inviting table by incorporating fall décor or fresh herbs as garnish—perfect for cozy gatherings!
Storage and reheating tips
Want to save some for later? This bake stores well! After it cools down, cover it tightly or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Freezing is also an option—just ensure it’s well-sealed. For safety, consume within three months.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tidbits to elevate your cooking game:
- Uniform slices ensure even cooking; using a mandoline can help achieve this.
- For a touch of nuttiness, consider toasting your nuts beforehand before sprinkling on top.
- Mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar to your drizzle for an extra depth of flavor.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! Swap out the carrots for parsnips for a delightful contrast in flavor. For added heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the vegetable mix. Alternatively, consider using pumpkin or zucchini when they’re in season. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, skip the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative.
Common questions
How long does this dish take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 50-55 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the vegetable layers and store them in the fridge the night before. Just pop them in the oven before serving.
What other vegetables work well in this dish?
Feel free to mix in vegetables like beets, turnips, or even sweet corn for a burst of sweetness and color!
