# Autumn Skillet Mix: Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts & Apples Perfect Fall Flavors *By James Hills — Updated September 2025* Sometimes the best cooking discoveries happen when you stop following the rules. I've always wanted to master authentic paella, but my Smithey carbon steel paella pan has become something far more versatile - a powerhouse for grilling seasonal produce that brings restaurant-quality results to backyard cooking. **Questions****Why Men Need To Up Their Cooking Game****Article Index** ** No answer selected. Please try again. Please select either existing option or enter your own, however not both. Please select minimum {0} answer(s). Please select maximum {0} answer(s). /polls/food-and-drinks/top-nutrition-tip-for-men.html?task=poll.vote&format=json 1 Read ingredient labels before purchasing - know exactly what you're putting in your body (2 votes / 12.5%) 12.5% votes Keep healthy snacks in your car/desk/gym bag - preparation defeats temptation (1 vote / 6.25%) 6.25% votes Schedule one 'reset day' monthly - strategic planning prevents long-term backsliding (2 votes / 12.5%) 12.5% votes Leave the fries on your plate - prioritize the protein and vegetables instead (2 votes / 12.5%) 12.5% votes All of the Above! (5 votes / 31.25%) 31.25% votes [{"id":62,"title":"Drink water before every meal - improves digestion and prevents overeating","votes":4,"type":"x","order":1,"pct":25,"resources":[]},{"id":63,"title":"Read ingredient labels before purchasing - know exactly what you're putting in your body","votes":2,"type":"x","order":2,"pct":12.5,"resources":[]},{"id":64,"title":"Keep healthy snacks in your car\/desk\/gym bag - preparation defeats temptation","votes":1,"type":"x","order":3,"pct":6.25,"resources":[]},{"id":65,"title":"Schedule one 'reset day' monthly - strategic planning prevents long-term backsliding","votes":2,"type":"x","order":4,"pct":12.5,"resources":[]},{"id":66,"title":"Leave the fries on your plate - prioritize the protein and vegetables instead","votes":2,"type":"x","order":5,"pct":12.5,"resources":[]},{"id":67,"title":"All of the Above!","votes":5,"type":"x","order":6,"pct":31.25,"resources":[]}] ["#ff5b00","#4ac0f2","#b80028","#eef66c","#60bb22","#b96a9a","#62c2cc"] ["rgba(255,91,0,0.7)","rgba(74,192,242,0.7)","rgba(184,0,40,0.7)","rgba(238,246,108,0.7)","rgba(96,187,34,0.7)","rgba(185,106,154,0.7)","rgba(98,194,204,0.7)"] 350 ** Vote Now** Vote Form** ResultVotes This recipe transforms how you think about specialty cookware while delivering a nutrient-packed dish that works as both a sophisticated side and hearty main course. - **Gear versatility** - Your paella pan becomes a multi-season workhorse beyond traditional Spanish dishes - **Grill efficiency** - The Weber Spirit's wok attachment accommodates the 17-inch diameter perfectly for even heating - **Seasonal eating** - Fresh Michigan produce creates bold flavors while keeping sodium content naturally low - **Entertaining ready** - The pan retains heat beautifully for table service, impressing dinner guests - **Health conscious** - Packed with nutrients and fiber while maintaining the satisfying flavors men crave  1. [Featured Cooking Gear I Used:](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#featured-premium-gear) 2. [Why This Fall Saute Recipe Works](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#why-this-recipe-works) 3. [Grilled Autumn Skillet: Caramelized Squash, Brussels Sprouts & Apples with Maple Finish](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#grilled-autumn-skillet:-caramelized-squash,-brussels-sprouts-&-apples-with-maple-finish)[Ingredients (4 servings):](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#ingredients-(4-servings):) 4. [Directions:](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#directions:) [Serving and Pairing](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#serving-and-pairing)[Mastering Seasonal Cooking Requires The Right Tools!](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html#mastering-seasonal-cooking-with-the-right-tools) ## Featured Cooking Gear I Used: - **[Smithey Carbon Steel Paella Pan](index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4454:smithey-ironware-carbon-steel-paella-pan-review&catid=16:stuff&Itemid=530)** - 17-inch diameter fits perfectly on Weber Spirit grill attachments - **[La Padella Saute Oil from CORTO](index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4457:corto-la-padella-saute-oil-review-high-heat-cooking&catid=17:food-drink&Itemid=529)** - High-heat cooking oil designed for professional-grade sautéing - **[Made In Chef's Knife](food-and-drink/made-in-knives-healthy-cooking.html)** - Precision cutting for consistent vegetable prep - **[MÄNNKITCHEN Pepper Cannon](index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4456:mannkitchen-pepper-cannon-pepper-mill-review&catid=16:stuff&Itemid=530)** - Heavy-duty pepper mill for fresh-ground seasoning - **[Weber Spirit Grill](stuff/weber-spirit-ep-435-gas-grill-review.html)** - Versatile outdoor cooking platform with wok attachment compatibility ## Why This Fall Saute Recipe Works The magic happens in the layered cooking process and the balance of sweet and tart flavors. Brussels sprouts get that deep caramelization when cooked cut-side down without moving them - a technique most home cooks ignore ... thinking it's good enough to just get them "soft". The butternut squash similarly can develop crispy golden edges while maintaining its structure, and the Granny Smith apples provide crucial tartness that balances the natural sweetness of the maple syrup finish. ### Master Your Grill: A Progressive Guide to Outdoor Cooking Master backyard grilling through systematic progression: equipment selection, core techniques, menu expansion, and advanced entertaining skills that transform any gathering into memorable culinary exp ManTripping [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/13BGQ4pFUQYJJGL1HZMaNA.45) ### Building Your BBQ Arsenal: 18 Grilling Must Haves for Guys Who Take the Cookout Seriously Outdoor cooking gear for guys building a real BBQ arsenal: 18 picks across gas, charcoal, kamado, Santa Maria, gravity, and griddle grills plus tools, carts, and a cookbook. ManTripping [Read More](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/13BGQ4pFUQYJJGL1HZMaNA.1864) ### Scrub Daddy BBQ Grill Cleaner Kit - Bristle Free Grill Brush with Refill Bristle free steam cleaning grill brush kit with scraper, hook, bottle opener, steel sponges and a refill head. Great for BBQ lovers. Amazon (affiliate)Scrub Daddy $44.98[Check Price on Amazon](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/13BGQ4pFUQYJJGL1HZMaNA.67) Promoted by FlowAds Using the paella pan on the Weber Spirit creates even heat distribution across the entire surface since there are actually multiple burners, not just one single heat source. This is something you can't easily achieve in a standard skillet when cooking on a stove or especially over fire. The wide, shallow design allows the Brussels sprouts to caramelize rather than steam since the Sear Zone gets things really hot, developing complex flavors that make this dish memorable. Then we can turn the heat down to allow the fall sauté to simmer, giving the other flavors time to come together nicely. ## Man Gear Pick of the Month September's Pick Amazon (affiliate) ### Kenyon City Grill Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill Why we picked it: a grill you can actually carry to the campsite, the tailgate or the cabin without borrowing a truck. Stainless, no propane tank to wrestle, and hot enough to cook for four guys rather than reheat for one. [Check The Price](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/pVc98p2klYk0p3VlEQJDGA.2144) [August's Pick LiberNovo Maxis Electric Big and Tall Ergonomic Office Chair, Graphite 52cm $1,466.00](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/pVc98p2klYk0p3VlEQJDGA.2350) [July's Pick Powerful Propane Torch Gun, Adjustable Flame Thrower Gun, Kitchen Torch with Detachable Design, Flamethrower Blow Torch for BBQ, Searing Steak, Welding, Camping Charcoal Lighter(Tank Not Included) $41.99](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/pVc98p2klYk0p3VlEQJDGA.2397) [June's Pick OYASUMI Funny BBQ Man Hot Dog Holders, 4 PCS Reusable Stainless Steel Sausage Stands, Portable Hot Dog Roasters, Barbecue Grill Accessories for Camping & Party Gifts $14.98](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/pVc98p2klYk0p3VlEQJDGA.2396) Promoted by FlowAds ## Grilled Autumn Skillet: Caramelized Squash, Brussels Sprouts & Apples with Maple Finish This recipe combines seasonal produce from Michigan using high-heat techniques that develop deep caramelization while maintaining individual textures and flavors throughout the dish. ### Ingredients (4 servings): - 2 cups butternut squash, peeled & diced (½-inch cubes) - 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved - 2 Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, cut into wedges (skin on) - 2 tbsp La Padella Saute oil (or bacon fat, if using bacon) - 1 tbsp butter - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or 6–8 sage leaves - ¼ cup apple cider (or white wine/chicken stock) - 2 tbsp maple syrup or balsamic glaze (for finishing) - Fresh ground pepper from Pepper Cannon - Salt to taste - Optional: 4 slices bacon or ½ cup pancetta, cooked crisp & crumbled - Optional: ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts - Optional: Crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan ### Directions: 1. **Prep:** Dice squash, halve Brussels, and cut apples into wedges using your Made In chef's knife. 2. **Crisp the Brussels:** Heat paella pan over medium-high on Weber Spirit. Add 1 tbsp oil. Place Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Cook undisturbed 3–4 minutes until deeply caramelized. Remove & set aside. 3. **Cook the squash:** Add another splash of oil to the same pan. Toss in squash cubes. Season with salt & pepper. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and just tender. 4. **Add apples:** Stir in apple wedges. Cook 3–4 minutes, just until they start to soften but still hold shape. 5. **Bring it together:** Return Brussels to pan. Add butter, garlic, and herbs. Stir until fragrant (about 1 minute). 6. **Deglaze:** Pour in apple cider, scraping up any browned bits. Let liquid mostly cook off (2–3 minutes). 7. **Finish:** Drizzle with maple syrup or balsamic glaze. Adjust seasoning. Top with bacon, nuts, and cheese if desired. ## Serving and Pairing This dish works perfectly as a sophisticated side with grilled pork chops or roasted chicken, but add a fried egg on top and it becomes a complete meal. The paella pan retains heat beautifully - I take it straight from the grill to the dining table where it stays warm throughout dinner. For drinks, hard apple cider with a splash of mezcal captures the season perfectly. If you prefer beer, I love **Bodega Lager** from Watermark Brewing Company in Stevensville, Michigan (near our condo / office in St Joseph, Michigan) as it brings light, crisp tastes with a hint of citrus that complements the dish without competing with the autumn flavors. ## Mastering Seasonal Cooking Requires The Right Tools! This recipe demonstrates that premium cookware unlocks possibilities beyond its intended purpose. The Smithey Paella Pan is a great pan for men planning [guys trips](https://www.mantripping.com/guys-trip.html) where we're cooking for groups outdoors - the wide surface handles large quantities while the carbon steel develops better seasoning with each use. Combined with the Weber Spirit's wok attachment, you get restaurant-quality results that showcase fall's best flavors without the complexity of traditional paella techniques. And yeah ... if you want a great paella, this pan is up to the task ... but it's good for so much more than those once-a-year seafood and rice works of art you see all over TikTok and YouTube! Details Written by: James Hills Published: 19 September 2025 Last Updated: 20 September 2025 ### 🚢Ready To Book A Vacation? Let us help you plan a cruise, all-inclusive resort, or tour for your next guys trip, family vacation, or romantic getaway. Click here to [**Book Your Next Vacation**](https://www.mantripping.com/vacation-planning.html). #### Which Style Of Amazon Cruise Should You Pick To Explore World's Largest River? Aug 17, 2026 [Which Style Of Amazon Cruise Should You Pick To Explore World's Largest River?](https://www.mantripping.com/travel/amazon-river-cruise-planning-ship-options.html) [Plan Your Next Vacation Today!](https://www.mantripping.com/vacation-planning.html) ### Products & Gift Ideas #### LiberNovo Maxis Chair Review - Finally A Seat That Lets Big Dudes Feel Comfortable At The Desk Sep 10, 2026 [LiberNovo Maxis Chair Review - Finally A Seat That Lets Big Dudes Feel Comfortable At The Desk](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/libernovo-maxis-big-and-tall-office-chair-review.html) #### FRESKO 4-in-1 Immersion Hand Blender Review Sep 09, 2026 [FRESKO 4-in-1 Immersion Hand Blender Review](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/fresko-4-in-1-immersion-hand-blender-review.html) #### UGREEN Air Review: Four Slim Chargers And Power Banks I Traveled With This Summer Aug 25, 2026 [UGREEN Air Review: Four Slim Chargers And Power Banks I Traveled With This Summer](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/ugreen-air-chargers-power-banks-review.html) ### Top Guys Trip Ideas: #### We've Found Your New Home Base: Basecamp Hotel Tahoe Oct 05, 2015 [We've Found Your New Home Base: Basecamp Hotel Tahoe](https://www.mantripping.com/travel/we-ve-found-your-new-home-base-at-basecamp-hotel-tahoe.html) #### What Does The Ultimate Guys Weekend Getaway Look Like? 9 Men Share Their Ideal Itineraries Sep 15, 2023 [What Does The Ultimate Guys Weekend Getaway Look Like? 9 Men Share Their Ideal Itineraries](https://www.mantripping.com/travel/what-does-the-ultimate-guys-getaway-look-like-men-share-their-ideal-itineraries.html) #### Detroit Sports Guys Weekend: Top 10 Must-Do Activities for a Legendary Motor City Getaway Feb 25, 2024 [Detroit Sports Guys Weekend: Top 10 Must-Do Activities for a Legendary Motor City Getaway](https://www.mantripping.com/travel/detroit-sports-guys-weekend-must-do-activities-for-a-legendary-motor-city-getaway.html) ### Related Articles #### The Weber Original Kettle Premium Brought Me Back To Charcoal After 15 Years [The Weber Original Kettle Premium Brought Me Back To Charcoal After 15 Years](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/weber-original-kettle-premium-22-review.html) #### Why Some Backyards Become the Guys' Hangout and Others Sit Empty [Why Some Backyards Become the Guys' Hangout and Others Sit Empty](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/backyard-hangout-guys-night-setup.html) #### I've Gone Electric With The Current Model P+ Smart Pizza Oven [I've Gone Electric With The Current Model P+ Smart Pizza Oven](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/current-model-p-plus-electric-pizza-oven-review.html) #### Kenmore 4-Burner Gas Grill With Side Searing Burner Review: Utilitarian Bones, Serious Searing Power [Kenmore 4-Burner Gas Grill With Side Searing Burner Review: Utilitarian Bones, Serious Searing Power](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/kenmore-4-burner-gas-grill-review.html) #### The Weber Kettle Smart Ring Works So Well It Almost Feels Like Cheating [The Weber Kettle Smart Ring Works So Well It Almost Feels Like Cheating](https://www.mantripping.com/stuff/weber-kettle-smart-ring-review.html) - [**](https://www.mantripping.com/search.html) - [**](https://www.mantripping.com/sitemap.html) - [** Polls](https://www.mantripping.com/polls.html) - [Community Login](https://www.mantripping.com/registration/login.html) - [Brand Engagement Newsletter](https://www.mantripping.com/pr-ops-newsletter.html) - [Links](https://www.mantripping.com/links.html) - [Pitch Portal](https://www.mantripping.com/pitch.html) - [Men's Travel Survey](https://www.mantripping.com/the-mantripping-guys-trip-report-spring-2026.html) --- *Source: [Autumn Skillet Mix: Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts & Apples Perfect Fall Flavors](https://www.mantripping.com/food-and-drink/autumn-skillet-with-butternut-squash-brussels-sprouts-apples-a-paella-pan-fall-foodie-adventure.html)* **Tags:** Food, Recipe, Foodies, Healthy Recipes, Grilling