Roasted Bison with Butternut Squash

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 0.75 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fork-tender.

   Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan—use two sheets if needed for even caramelization.

2. 2

   While squash roasts, pat bison steaks dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with remaining salt and pepper about 10 minutes before cooking.

   Tip: Bison is very lean, so avoid overcooking—medium-rare is ideal.

3. 3

   Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once shimmering, sear steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Transfer to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil.

   Tip: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

4. 4

   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and sliced shallots. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shallots are golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel.

   Tip: Watch carefully to prevent burning—shallots should be golden, not dark brown.

5. 5

   Add minced garlic and sage leaves to the butter remaining in the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in balsamic vinegar and vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

   Tip: This deglazing step adds incredible depth of flavor to your sauce.

6. 6

   Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Pour sauce over the rested bison steaks.

   Tip: Keep sauce warm while steaks rest—don't let it reduce too much or it will become overly concentrated.

7. 7

   Arrange roasted butternut squash around the plated steaks, drizzle with sage brown butter sauce, and top with crispy shallots. Serve immediately while everything is warm.

   Tip: For plating, group squash on one side of the plate and lean the steak against it for visual appeal.