15 Butternut Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many delicious recipes. From savory dishes to sweet treats, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

This seasonal favorite can add flavor and nutrition to your cooking. Whether you are preparing a comforting soup or a tasty side dish, butternut squash helps you create memorable meals that can be shared with family and friends.

1) Roasted Butternut Squash with Thyme

Roasting butternut squash with thyme brings out its natural sweetness. It’s a simple and delicious side dish that pairs well with many meals.

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cut your butternut squash into cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then add thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the squash is evenly coated.

Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps it roast evenly. Bake in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the squash is golden and tender.

Enjoy the warm, flavorful roasted butternut squash with thyme!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut squash into cubes.
3. Place cubes on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Spread in a single layer.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until tender.

2) Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto

Butternut squash and sage risotto is a warm and creamy dish that brings comfort and flavor together. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of sage.

Start by roasting the butternut squash to bring out its natural sweetness. While it cooks, you can prepare the risotto on the stove. Use arborio rice for that creamy texture you’re looking for.

As the rice cooks, gradually add broth and stir until it’s perfectly creamy. Finally, mix in the roasted squash and some fresh sage for that delightful finish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh sage leaves

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 15 minutes.
3. In a pot, heat the broth to a simmer.
4. In a pan, cook the onion until soft, then add the arborio rice.
5. Gradually add the broth, stirring until absorbed.
6. Mix in the roasted squash and sage before serving. Enjoy!

3) Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Creamy butternut squash soup is a warm and inviting dish. It’s great for chilly days or as a comforting starter. The natural sweetness of the squash blends perfectly with spices and cream.

To get started, you will need fresh butternut squash. You can roast it for added flavor or cook it on the stovetop. Adding onions, garlic, and broth enhances the taste. Cream brings a rich texture that makes each spoonful delightful.

This soup is simple to make. It’s also versatile; you can add herbs or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half, remove seeds, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the squash face down on a lined baking sheet for about 30 minutes.
4. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
5. Scoop the roasted squash into the pot.
6. Add the broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Blend the soup until smooth.
8. Stir in the cream and heat through before serving.

4) Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna

Butternut squash and spinach lasagna is a delicious vegetarian dish. It combines creamy layers of roasted butternut squash with fresh spinach and three types of cheese. This makes it perfect for a hearty meal without meat.

The roasted squash gives a rich flavor, while the spinach adds a lovely color and texture. You’ll love every cheesy bite in this comforting dish. It’s great for fall and can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 9-12 lasagna noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 20 minutes.
3. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
4. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish: noodles, squash, spinach, and cheese.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

5) Spicy Butternut Squash and Black Bean Tacos

These spicy butternut squash and black bean tacos are a delicious and easy meal. The sweet squash pairs perfectly with savory black beans and bold spices.

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Roast until tender for about 30-40 minutes.

When the squash is almost done, mix in black beans and let them warm in the oven. Once ready, fill corn tortillas with the mixture and add your favorite toppings like cilantro or avocado.

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash, cubed
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt to taste
• Corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, lime

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes.
4. Add black beans to the sheet pan for the last 5 minutes.
5. Fill tortillas with the mixture and add toppings. Enjoy!

6) Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Salad

This delicious salad combines roasted butternut squash and creamy goat cheese. It’s a perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Roast it in the oven until it’s tender and lightly browned.

Add fresh greens like arugula or spinach, along with nuts for crunch. Pepitas or walnuts work well here.

Toss in some dried cranberries for sweetness. Top it all off with crumbled goat cheese for creaminess.

Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar to enhance the flavors. This salad is nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups arugula or spinach
• 1/4 cup pepitas or walnuts
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 3 oz crumbled goat cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: vinegar or lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast the squash for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine greens, nuts, cranberries, and goat cheese.
5. Add the roasted squash once it cools slightly.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar before serving.

7) Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter

Butternut squash ravioli with brown butter is a delicious dish that’s perfect for any season. The sweet squash filling pairs wonderfully with the nutty flavor of brown butter.

To make this dish, start by cooking your ravioli in a pot of boiling salted water until they float. This usually takes about 4 to 6 minutes.

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Let it simmer until it turns golden brown and develops a nice nutty aroma, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes.

You can mix in some sage or herbs for extra flavor. Once everything is ready, combine the ravioli with the brown butter sauce.

Ingredients

• Fresh or frozen butternut squash ravioli
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• Fresh sage (optional)
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the ravioli until they float, about 4 to 6 minutes.
3. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Simmer until brown and fragrant, about 5 to 10 minutes.
5. If using, add sage to the butter.
6. Drain ravioli and toss with brown butter. Enjoy!

8) Maple-Glazed Butternut Squash

Maple-glazed butternut squash is a tasty side dish that brings sweetness and warmth to your meals. It is easy to make and pairs well with many main dishes.

To get started, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). You’ll want to prepare the squash by peeling, seeding, and cutting it into cubes for even cooking.

Next, toss the cubes with maple syrup and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast until they are tender and caramelized.

This dish is a perfect addition to your dinner table, adding color and flavor to your plate.

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Olive oil (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. In a bowl, mix the squash with maple syrup and nutmeg.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

9) Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash mac and cheese is a comforting dish. It combines creamy cheese sauce with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a twist.

You will love how easy it is to prepare. It’s perfect for family dinners and will satisfy even picky eaters. Plus, it adds extra nutrients to your meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups macaroni
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil macaroni according to package instructions.
3. Roast butternut squash in the oven until tender.
4. In a pot, melt butter, and add milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Stir in cheeses until melted.
6. Mix in cooked macaroni and roasted squash.
7. Pour into a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes. Enjoy your meal!

10) Curried Butternut Squash Stew

This Curried Butternut Squash Stew is a warm and delicious dish that’s perfect for any season. The curry spices bring out the sweet flavor of the squash, making it a comforting meal.

To start, you will need ingredients like coconut milk, curry powder, and ginger. This stew is also packed with veggies, which makes it healthy and tasty.

You can enjoy it on its own or with some rice. It’s a simple and satisfying recipe that you can make in one pot.

Ingredients

• 3 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 can (13.6 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until soft.
3. Stir in the ginger and curry powder.
4. Add the butternut squash and broth.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer until the squash is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste and serve.

11) Butternut Squash Bread Pudding

Butternut squash bread pudding is a tasty and comforting dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. The creamy texture and sweet flavors make it a favorite.

To start, you’ll need to roast your butternut squash until it’s tender. Mix it with bread cubes, eggs, milk, and your choice of spices.

This dish is flexible. You can add cheese for a savory touch or sweet spices like cinnamon for a dessert-style pudding.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cubed butternut squash
• 4 cups bread cubes
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast butternut squash on a baking sheet for about 25 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Stir in the roasted squash and bread cubes.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Enjoy!

12) Butternut Squash and Lentil Curry

Butternut squash and lentil curry makes a warm and hearty dish. It’s vegan-friendly and loaded with flavors. This recipe combines sweet butternut squash with protein-rich lentils for a filling meal.

You’ll start by cooking onions and garlic in a pot. Then, add diced butternut squash, lentils, and spices. Pour in coconut milk for creaminess. Let it simmer until everything is tender and flavors meld.

Serve this curry warm, ideally with rice or bread. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, diced
• 1 cup dry red lentils
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups vegetable broth

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Add diced butternut squash and lentils.
4. Stir in curry powder and salt.
5. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
7. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until everything is tender.

13) Baked Butternut Squash Fries

You’ll love making baked butternut squash fries at home. They are a tasty and healthy alternative to regular fries. Plus, they’re easy to prepare!

Start by cutting your butternut squash into fry-shaped pieces. Keep them uniform in size for even cooking. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for the best results.

Toss the fries with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Enjoy your crispy fries as a snack or side dish!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and slice the butternut squash into fry shapes.
3. Toss fries with olive oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

14) Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa

Stuffed butternut squash with quinoa is a delicious and healthy dish you can make easily. The sweet flavor of the roasted squash pairs perfectly with the nutty quinoa. You can also add your favorite veggies and spices for extra taste.

To start, you will roast the butternut squash until it’s tender. Then, prepare the quinoa and mix it with cooked vegetables like kale and mushrooms. Finally, stuff the mixture into the roasted squash and bake everything together for a warm meal.

This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great option for a cozy dinner or a holiday side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup kale, chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Halve the butternut squash and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 40 minutes.
4. Cook quinoa in water until absorbed, about 15 minutes.
5. Sauté kale and mushrooms in a pan until soft.
6. Mix quinoa with veggies and stuff it into the squash.
7. Bake for an additional 20 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Butternut Squash Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Butternut squash pancakes are a tasty and healthy breakfast option. They have a lovely sweetness and pair wonderfully with maple syrup. This dish is easy to make and brings a warm flavor to your morning.

To start, you need to blend butternut squash with some milk, flour, and spices like cinnamon. This creates a smooth batter that cooks up fluffy and light.

When the pancakes are golden brown, serve them hot with pure maple syrup drizzled on top. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch if you like.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butternut squash puree
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• Butter for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine butternut squash, milk, eggs, and maple syrup.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. Combine both mixtures until just blended.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter.
5. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet for each pancake.
6. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup on top.