Introduction
As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a hearty meal that celebrates the flavors of fall. Introducing the “Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with Apples and Sage” – a warm, delightful dish that brings together the rich essence of autumn in every bite. Imagine a medley of roasted vegetables, creamy cheese, crisp apples, and fragrant sage, all coming together on one simple sheet pan. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy dish for gatherings with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this comforting meal will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with seasonal joy. Dive into this delicious culinary experience and let the comfort of fall embrace you!
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (honeycrisp or granny smith work well)
- 1 medium red onion, sliced into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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- In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, sliced apples, and red onion.
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- Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and apples, then sprinkle with dried sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
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- Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared sheet pan, ensuring there is space between the pieces for even 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 starting to caramelize, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
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- After roasting, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese and crumbled goat cheese (if using) evenly 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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- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh sage leaves if desired.
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- Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of fall!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Apples: 2-3 medium-sized, preferably a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji, cored and sliced
- Butternut Squash: 1 medium, peeled and cubed
- Brussels Sprouts: 1 pound, trimmed and halved
- Red Onion: 1 medium, sliced into wedges
- Fresh Sage: 1/4 cup, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, for roasting
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Cheddar Cheese: 1-2 cups, shredded (sharp or mild, based on preference)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon, for drizzling (optional)
This combination of flavors and textures will create a deliciously comforting fall dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your dish cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden finish.
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Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and peeling (if necessary) your seasonal vegetables. Chop apples, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and any other veggies you’re using into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes to promote even cooking.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped vegetables and apple slices. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh sage. Toss everything together until all the pieces are well coated in the oil and seasonings.
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Arrange on Sheet Pan: Spread the seasoned vegetables and apples in a single layer on a large sheet pan. Avoid overcrowding to allow the veggies to roast rather than steam. If your pan is small, consider using two pans.
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Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want the vegetables to be tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
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Add Cheese: After 25-30 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Sprinkle your choice of cheese (like shredded cheddar or gouda) evenly over the pan. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
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Final Touches: Once the cheese is melted, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For added flavor, consider drizzling a little balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs before serving.
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Serve: Scoop the cheesy fall harvest mixture onto plates or serve straight from the pan. Enjoy this comforting dish warm, and savor the delicious flavors of autumn!
Remember to keep an eye on the baking process, as individual oven temperatures may vary. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a Green Salad: Elevate your meal by serving the Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with a refreshing green salad. A light arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
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Add a Protein: For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, roasted sausage, or pan-seared pork chops. The savory flavors of these proteins complement the sweet and earthy notes of the sheet pan dish.
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Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread will be perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness on the plate. It adds a comforting touch and makes for a satisfying meal.
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Yogurt or Sour Cream Drizzle: A dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can add a tangy element to the dish, enhancing the flavors and adding creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the seasoned vegetables.
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Crispy Sage Garnish: Crumble extra crispy sage leaves on top for added texture and an aromatic hit. This not only enhances presentation but also elevates the flavor profile.
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Wine Pairing: Consider a glass of crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir, to complement the autumn flavors of your dish.
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Leftovers for Lunch: This sheet pan comfort makes for excellent leftovers! Pack it for lunch the next day, warmed and ready to fuel your day. Adding a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a small apple can create a wholesome meal.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to tailor the experience to your guests or family!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Fall Harvest Sheet Pan Comfort with Apples and Sage is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of autumn. The combination of sweet, juicy apples and aromatic sage, paired with the heartiness of root vegetables and melted cheese, creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, and the best part is that it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
As the leaves change and the temperatures drop, this recipe serves as a reminder to embrace the flavors of the season. Feel free to experiment with the vegetables based on what you have on hand, and don’t hesitate to add your favorite cheeses or herbs to personalize it to your taste.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish, and let it warm your heart and home as you savor the rich flavors of fall. Happy cooking!
