Fall is in the air, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to cozy up with some warm, comforting meals.
And what better ingredient to star in your autumn dishes than the versatile and nutritious butternut squash?
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, butternut squash recipes are a fantastic way to add flavor, color, and nutrients to your plate.
Butternut squash isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
This golden veggie is a staple in cuisines around the world, from Italian risottos to Thai curries.
Its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture make it a hit in both savory and sweet dishes.
In this post, we are going to share with you six mouthwatering butternut squash recipes that will have you falling in love with this autumn superstar.
From soups to pasta, and even some crispy fritters, we’ve got something for everyone.
So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of butternut squash!
1. Roasted Butternut Squash with Herbs
Let’s start with a simple yet flavor-packed dish that’ll make you wonder why you haven’t been eating butternut squash every day. This roasted butternut squash with herbs is the perfect side dish or salad topping that’ll elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.
“Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash, creating a delicious caramelized exterior that’s simply irresistible!” – Chef Maria
Serve this roasted butternut squash alongside your favorite roasted meats, toss it into a grain bowl, or use it to add some autumn flair to your salads. The possibilities are endless!
2. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, velvety soup to comfort your soul. This creamy butternut squash soup is like a hug in a bowl – perfect for those cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add roasted squash, broth, and nutmeg. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in cream or coconut milk.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro tip: Make this soup vegan by using coconut milk instead of cream. For added texture, top with crunchy croutons, roasted pumpkin seeds, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon!
3. Butternut Squash Risotto
Take your dinner game up a notch with this creamy, savory butternut squash risotto. It’s a dish that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. Your taste buds (and dinner guests) will thank you!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a separate pan, roast the cubed butternut squash until tender.
- In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Add rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Pour in wine and stir until absorbed.
- Add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed.
- When rice is almost tender, stir in roasted squash and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
“The key to a perfect risotto is patience. Don’t rush the process – let each ladle of broth absorb fully before adding the next. Your patience will be rewarded with a creamy, dreamy dish!” – Chef Antonio
Serve this butternut squash risotto as a main dish or as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It’s comfort food at its finest!
4. Butternut Squash & Spinach Lasagna
Who says lasagna has to be all about tomato sauce and beef? This butternut squash and spinach lasagna is a vegetarian twist that’ll have even the most devoted meat-lovers asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 package lasagna noodles
- 4 cups butternut squash puree
- 2 cups fresh spinach, wilted
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Layer lasagna noodles, then spread with butternut squash puree, dollops of ricotta, spinach, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Repeat layers, ending with a layer of noodles topped with remaining sauce and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Make it your own: Try adding sautéed mushrooms or kale for extra veggie goodness. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles or thinly sliced zucchini instead of pasta.
5. Butternut Squash Fritters
Looking for a fun way to enjoy butternut squash? These crispy fritters are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They’re so good, you might find yourself making them all year round!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated butternut squash
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients except oil in a large bowl.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Serve these crispy butternut squash fritters with a dollop of yogurt dip or sour cream. They’re irresistibly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside!
6. Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage Butter
Last but not least, let’s talk pasta! This butternut squash pasta with sage butter is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for those nights when you want something a little special.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound pasta (penne or spaghetti work great)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 15-20 fresh sage leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Roast cubed butternut squash at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until crispy.
- Toss cooked pasta with roasted squash, sage butter, and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Take it up a notch: For a protein boost, add some grilled chicken or Italian sausage to this pasta dish. The flavors pair beautifully with the sweet butternut squash and savory sage butter.
Conclusion
As we have seen, butternut squash is truly a fall superstar.
From creamy soups to crispy fritters, and comforting pasta dishes to layered lasagnas, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to incorporate this nutritious veggie into your meals.
These butternut squash recipes are just the beginning.
Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen! Try adding cubed butternut squash to your favorite stew, or puree it into a smooth sauce for chicken or fish. The possibilities are endless.
So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmers market, grab a butternut squash (or two!). With these recipes in your back pocket, you’ll be well-equipped to create delicious, nutritious meals all season long.
“Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on these recipes. Who knows? You might just create your new favorite dish!” – Chef Emily
Now it’s your turn! Which of these butternut squash recipes are you excited to try first? Do you have a favorite butternut squash dish that we didn’t mention? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Before we wrap up, let’s take a quick look at why butternut squash is such a nutritional powerhouse:
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | Supports eye health and immune function |
| Vitamin C | Boosts immune system and promotes skin health |
| Fiber | Aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness |
| Potassium | Supports heart health and helps regulate blood pressure |
| Antioxidants | Help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals |
With all these benefits, it’s clear why butternut squash deserves a regular spot in your meal rotation!
FAQ
Q: How do I choose a good butternut squash at the store? A: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a matte, tan color. Avoid squash with green patches, cuts, or soft spots.
Q: Can I eat the skin of butternut squash? A: While the skin is edible when cooked, it’s usually tough. Most recipes call for peeled butternut squash for a better texture.
Q: How long does butternut squash last? A: Whole, uncut butternut squash can last up to 3 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Once cut, refrigerate and use within a week.
Q: Can I freeze butternut squash? A: Yes! You can freeze raw cubed butternut squash or cooked and pureed squash for up to 3 months.
Q: Is butternut squash keto-friendly? A: Butternut squash is higher in carbs, so it’s not typically included in strict keto diets. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation on less restrictive low-carb diets.