9 Butternut Squash Recipes That Make the Most of Fall
Butternut squash has a naturally sweet, nutty flavor that works in far more than soup. Roast it until caramelized, mash it into a creamy sauce, add it to pasta, or use it to bring something different to taco night. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a cozy meal, these nine butternut squash recipes offer plenty of ways to put this versatile winter squash to work.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Garlic and Herbs
Roasting brings out butternut squash’s natural sweetness while giving the edges a delicious caramelized finish. Toss cubed squash with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender and golden. It’s an easy side dish that works just as well alongside a weeknight dinner as it does on a holiday table
Butternut Squash Soup
Few things are more comforting on a chilly day than a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. The squash gives this soup a naturally sweet and velvety base, while simple seasonings add warmth without overpowering it. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad for an easy meal.
Stuffed Butternut Squash Boats
Halved butternut squash makes a naturally edible bowl for a hearty filling. Try combining cooked grains with ingredients such as dried cranberries, nuts, cheese, or herbs for a satisfying meatless meal. The colorful presentation also makes this a nice option when you’re serving guests.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Butternut squash adds both color and creaminess to a classic risotto. Roasted squash can be folded into the rice toward the end of cooking, while Parmesan and herbs add savory flavor to balance its sweetness. It takes a little more attention than a typical side dish, but it makes a comforting dinner or impressive accompaniment.
Maple-Glazed Butternut Squash
A little maple syrup brings out the squash’s natural sweetness without requiring a complicated sauce. Add a touch of cinnamon or warm spices before roasting for a side dish that feels especially suited to cooler weather. It pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, pork, or other savory main dishes.
Butternut Squash Pasta
Pureed butternut squash can turn into a surprisingly creamy pasta sauce. Blend cooked squash with garlic, herbs, Parmesan, or a little cream to create a sauce that’s rich without relying on a traditional tomato base. It’s also a clever way to work more vegetables into a familiar family dinner.
Butternut Squash Tacos
Taco night doesn’t have to revolve around ground beef or chicken. Seasoned roasted butternut squash pairs especially well with black beans, avocado, cheese, and fresh toppings tucked into warm tortillas. The combination of sweet squash and savory, spicy toppings makes this a fun way to change up your usual taco routine.
Butternut Squash Curry
Butternut squash is a natural fit for a warmly spiced curry. Simmer chunks of squash with aromatics, curry spices, and coconut milk until tender and serve it over rice or alongside naan. The squash becomes wonderfully soft as it cooks and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
Butternut Squash Muffins
Butternut squash isn’t just for savory dishes. Pureed squash can add moisture, natural sweetness, and a tender texture to homemade muffins, especially when paired with cinnamon, nutmeg, or other warm spices. They’re a delicious option for breakfast, lunchboxes, or an afternoon snack.
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