Looking for the best squash recipes? You’re in the right place! Butternut squash is one of the most versatile veggies out there, and these butternut squash recipes are proof of just how delicious it can be.
Whether you’re searching for easy squash recipes or just want to learn the easy way to cook butternut squash, I’ve got you covered. From soups to salads to casseroles, there are so many tasty ways to enjoy food with butternut squash.
Try out hubbard squash recipes, acorn squash recipes too.
So, if you’re wondering, “How do you cook butternut squash?” or “How to fix butternut squash?” don’t worry—these recipes make it super simple. Let’s explore how to cook a butternut squash in fun and flavorful ways!
1. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, especially on chilly nights. The roasted butternut squash gives it a rich, nutty flavor that’s perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s super simple—no fancy ingredients! My kids even ask for seconds, which says a lot. Let’s dive in.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, and cinnamon. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons!
2. Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry
Curry nights are a thing in my house, and this one’s a keeper! The sweetness of the squash pairs so well with the hearty chickpeas. It’s mildly spiced, so it’s family-friendly, but you can crank up the heat if you’re into that.
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add the curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the butternut squash cubes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Add the chickpeas and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve over rice or with naan bread, sprinkled with fresh cilantro.
3. Butternut Squash Risotto
Risotto sounds fancy, but trust me, it’s not as hard as people make it seem. This butternut squash risotto is creamy, comforting, and perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s worth the stirring—I promise!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 small butternut squash, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add the arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes.
- Start adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly.
- Meanwhile, roast the butternut squash in the oven until soft.
- Once the rice is cooked (about 20 minutes), stir in the roasted squash, Parmesan, and butter.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese if you like.
4. Butternut Squash and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is like comfort in a bowl. It’s packed with protein from the lentils and sweetness from the squash. I love making this on busy weeknights because it’s super filling, and you can make a big batch for leftovers.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the cumin and smoked paprika, stirring for 1 minute.
- Stir in the butternut squash, lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils and squash are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve with crusty bread or over rice.
5. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
This one is a hit with the kiddos. It’s creamy, cheesy, and sneaks in some veggies—what more could you ask for? I love how the butternut squash adds a natural sweetness to the cheese sauce.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the butternut squash until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and puree it.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened.
- Stir in the cheese and pureed squash until smooth.
- Toss the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni. Serve hot!
6. Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna
Lasagna is a labor of love, but this version with butternut squash and spinach is totally worth it. It’s cheesy, layered, and packed with flavor. Even my picky eater loves this one!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups roasted butternut squash puree
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 box lasagna noodles (cooked)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the squash puree, ricotta, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, layer cooked lasagna noodles, squash mixture, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
- Top with a final layer of noodles and mozzarella.
- Bake for 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
7. Mashed Butternut Squash with Garlic
This mashed squash is a great alternative to mashed potatoes. It’s creamy, garlicky, and goes with just about everything. My favorite part? It’s super easy to whip up!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the butternut squash cubes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain.
- In a small pan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Mash the cooked squash with the garlic butter.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm as a side dish.
8. Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
This salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. The roasted squash pairs beautifully with the earthy kale, and the tangy dressing brings it all together. I love making this for lunch or a light dinner.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
- Massage the kale with a pinch of salt to soften it.
- In a large bowl, combine the kale, roasted squash, feta, and cranberries.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients and toss with the salad. Serve immediately.
9. Butternut Squash Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are such a fun and colorful dinner option, and filling them with butternut squash is a game-changer. The squash adds a sweet, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Even my youngest thinks these are “fancy.”
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 2 cups cooked butternut squash, mashed
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the mashed squash, cooked quinoa, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the squash mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl
This bowl is a total power meal. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and tons of flavor. The roasted squash adds sweetness, while the quinoa and other toppings make it super filling. Perfect for meal prep, too!
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cubed butternut squash
- 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
- 1/4 cup chickpeas (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes.
- Assemble the bowl with quinoa, roasted squash, chickpeas, and feta.
- Drizzle with the remaining olive oil or your favorite dressing. Serve warm or cold.
11. Butternut Squash and Potato Gratin
When you need a comforting side dish, this gratin is the answer. Layers of creamy potatoes and sweet butternut squash, all baked to golden perfection—what’s not to love? It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, thinly sliced
- 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere or cheddar cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish and layer the squash and potatoes alternately.
- In a small saucepan, heat the cream with the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the layers.
- Sprinkle cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
12. Butternut Squash and Coconut Milk Soup
Creamy and slightly sweet, this soup has a tropical twist thanks to the coconut milk. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is ridiculously easy to make. My go-to when I need a quick dinner!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté the onion until softened.
- Add the squash, ginger, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a swirl of coconut milk.
13. Butternut Squash and Black Bean Tacos
Taco night just got an upgrade! These butternut squash and black bean tacos are a healthy, flavorful twist on the classic. The roasted squash is slightly sweet, and the beans add a hearty texture.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 cup black beans, cooked
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Small tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the squash with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes.
- Warm the tortillas and fill them with roasted squash and black beans.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
14. Butternut Squash and Herb Flatbread
Flatbreads are my go-to for quick dinners or snacks. This version with butternut squash and fresh herbs feels fancy but takes no time at all. Great for entertaining or just a fun family dinner!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 premade flatbread or pizza crust
- 1 cup mashed butternut squash
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread the mashed squash over the flatbread.
- Top with mozzarella, goat cheese, and thyme. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.
15. Butternut Squash and Feta Pasta Bake
If you love baked pasta, this one’s for you. The squash gets all creamy in the oven, and the feta adds a tangy kick. It’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-good.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni works great)
- 2 cups roasted butternut squash
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, roasted squash, feta, milk, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
And there you have it—the best squash recipes to turn butternut squash into something magical. Whether you’re trying a creamy soup, a hearty casserole, or a simple side dish, these butternut squash recipes are guaranteed to impress.
They’re all easy squash recipes that show you the easy way to cook butternut squash without any hassle. From cozy dinners to quick snacks, there’s no end to the possibilities for food with butternut squash.
So next time you wonder, “How do you cook butternut squash?” or “How to fix butternut squash?” just pick one of these ideas and enjoy. With these squash recipes, you’ll always know how to cook a butternut squash to perfection!
Leave a Reply