Introduction
As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, hearty meal that captures the essence of the season. Enter the “Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with Apples and Sage.” This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of roasted vegetables, the sweetness of fall apples, and the aromatic touch of fresh sage, all layered under a blanket of gooey cheese.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends and family, this one-pan wonder not only simplifies cooking and cleanup, but it also brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of fall produce or simply looking for a way to incorporate seasonal ingredients into your meals, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Get ready to embrace the spirit of autumn with every delicious bite!
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, cleaned and halved
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 apples, cored and cut into slices (honeycrisp or granny smith are great choices)
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to preference
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- Fresh sage leaves for topping (optional)
Instructions
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- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper for effortless cleaning.
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- In a spacious bowl, mix together the diced butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, sliced apples, and red onion.
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- Pour the olive oil over the mixed vegetables and apples, then add the dried sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until all pieces are well-coated.
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- Evenly distribute the mixture across the prepared sheet pan, making sure to leave some space between the pieces for optimal roasting.
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- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and beginning to caramelize, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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- Once roasted, take the pan out of the oven and generously sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese and crumbled goat cheese (if using) over the mixture.
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- Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- After it’s cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. If desired, finish with fresh sage leaves on top.
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- Serve warm and savor the delightful, comforting tastes of autumn!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
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Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balanced flavor.
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Sweet Potatoes: Peeled and cubed, they add natural sweetness and a hearty texture.
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Brussels Sprouts: Halved for roasting, they provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
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Red Onion: Sliced, it brings sweetness and depth when caramelized in the oven.
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Fresh Sage: Chopped, for a fragrant herby note that complements the seasonal ingredients.
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Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a rich, creamy melt.
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Olive Oil: For drizzling over the vegetables to ensure even roasting and enhance flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish and elevating the natural flavors of the ingredients.
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Balsamic Vinegar: Optional, for a drizzle at the end to add a tangy depth to the dish.
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden finish.
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Prepare the Ingredients: While the oven is heating, wash and chop your vegetables. Slice the apples into thin wedges, dice the onions, and cube the sweet potatoes. Make sure to remove the seeds and stems from the butternut squash before cutting it into cubes.
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Season the Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and diced onions. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped fresh sage. Toss everything until well-coated in oil and seasoning.
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Arrange on the Sheet Pan: Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly across a large sheet pan. Ensure they’re in a single layer to promote even roasting. If you have a second sheet pan, feel free to use it to prevent crowding, which can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
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Roast the Vegetables: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give the vegetables a good toss to ensure they caramelize evenly. You’re looking for them to be slightly tender and starting to brown around the edges.
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Add Apples and Cheese: After 25 minutes, pull the pan from the oven. Add the apple wedges to the pan alongside the roasted vegetables and sprinkle everything with your choice of cheese—cheddar, gouda, or a mix of both works wonderfully.
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Finish Baking: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to prevent the cheese from burning.
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Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining fresh sage over the top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This comforting meal pairs beautifully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Enjoy your Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with Apples and Sage! It’s a perfect dish to celebrate the flavors of autumn.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with Apples and Sage, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Accompanying Salad: Serve with a fresh arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheesy dish.
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Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra cheesy goodness and juices from the roasted vegetables and apples.
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Savory Chutney: A side of homemade or store-bought apple chutney can add a sweet and tangy note that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Roasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the dish before serving for a crunchy texture and an additional layer of flavor.
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Herb Garnish: Freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of color and a burst of freshness on top of the finished dish.
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Protein Addition: For a heartier meal, serve with sliced grilled chicken or roasted sausages on the side, making it a complete dinner.
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Leftover Remake: If you have leftovers, consider using them as a filling for wraps or quesadillas, adding more cheese and a touch of hot sauce for a quick and delicious lunch option.
With these serving suggestions, your Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort will not only be comforting but also an enjoyable experience for everyone at the table!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with Apples and Sage perfectly encapsulates the essence of the season. With its harmonious blend of roasted vegetables, sweet apples, and savory sage, it offers a delightful medley of flavors that’ll warm your heart and home. The ease of preparation and the convenience of a single pan make this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights or festive gatherings alike. Plus, the cheesy topping adds that irresistible comfort food factor that everyone craves as the weather cools. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite fall veggies or herbs; the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Enjoy this comforting meal, and embrace the cozy vibes of autumn!
