15 Easy Butternut Squash Recipes for Delicious Meals

Butternut squash is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can brighten up any meal. It has a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs well with many dishes, making it a favorite for many home cooks. These easy butternut squash recipes will help you create tasty meals with minimal effort.

Whether you are looking for a comforting side dish or a hearty main course, butternut squash can do it all. They are perfect for any season and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy the warm and inviting flavors of this wonderful squash!

1) Roasted Butternut Squash with Garlic

Roasted butternut squash with garlic is a tasty and simple dish. It offers a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory taste of garlic.

To make this dish, start by peeling and cutting your butternut squash into cubes. You can roast it in the oven for easy preparation.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results.

Mix the squash cubes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet, making sure they’re in a single layer. Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and tender.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. In a bowl, combine squash, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

2) Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Sage

Butternut squash soup is perfect for chilly days. The creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite. Adding crispy sage gives it a wonderful, aromatic touch.

To start, you will need to roast the butternut squash. This brings out its natural sweetness. Blend in some onion and garlic for extra flavor.

Once smooth, serve it hot. You can top it with a drizzle of cream and those crispy sage leaves for a lovely presentation. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh sage leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
3. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
4. Add roasted squash and vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream.
6. For crispy sage, heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry sage leaves until crispy.
7. Serve soup hot, garnished with crispy sage.

3) Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Creamy butternut squash risotto is a delicious and comforting dish. It combines the sweetness of butternut squash with creamy rice for a tasty meal. This dish is perfect for any occasion and is simple to make.

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and cut the butternut squash into small cubes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender.

As the squash cooks, sauté some onion in a pot. Add arborio rice and cook until it’s slightly toasted. Gradually stir in warm broth, allowing it to absorb before adding more.

Once the rice is creamy, mix in the roasted squash. Finish with parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.

Ingredients

• 1 butternut squash
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast squash until tender, about 25 minutes.
5. In a pot, sauté chopped onion until soft.
6. Add arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes.
7. Gradually stir in warm broth, allowing it to absorb.
8. Mix in roasted squash.
9. Stir in parmesan cheese before serving.

4) Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna

Butternut squash and spinach lasagna is a comforting and tasty dish. It’s perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. The creamy filling and roasted squash make it a delightful twist on traditional lasagna.

You’ll start by roasting the butternut squash until it’s tender. Then, mix it with ricotta cheese and spinach. Layer these fillings between sheets of lasagna noodles. Top it off with marinara sauce and cheese for a delicious finish.

This dish is not only filling but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy the flavors of autumn with every bite!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. Toss squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 25 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix roasted squash with ricotta cheese and spinach.
5. In a baking dish, spread some marinara sauce.
6. Layer noodles, squash mixture, and more sauce.
7. Repeat layers and top with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly.

5) Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa

Stuffed butternut squash with quinoa is a tasty and healthy dish. You can easily make it for dinner or a special occasion. The sweet squash pairs perfectly with the nutty quinoa.

Start by roasting the butternut squash in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for about 40 minutes until it’s tender.

While the squash roasts, prepare the quinoa. Cook 1/2 cup of quinoa in 1 cup of water until all the water is absorbed. You can mix in sautéed veggies like onion, garlic, and spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Once the squash is done, fill each half with the quinoa mixture. Bake for an additional 10 minutes to heat everything through.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1/2 cup quinoa
• 1 cup water
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional veggies: onion, garlic, spinach

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for about 40 minutes.
5. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until water is absorbed.
6. Sauté optional veggies until softened.
7. Mix veggies with cooked quinoa.
8. Stuff the quinoa mixture into the roasted squash halves.
9. Bake for another 10 minutes. Enjoy!

6) Maple-Glazed Butternut Squash

Maple-glazed butternut squash is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. The sweet maple syrup pairs well with the natural flavor of the squash.

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with non-stick spray or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Peel and cube the butternut squash. Toss the cubes in maple syrup and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet.

Roast in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized. Enjoy the delightful flavor and aroma!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a baking sheet with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
3. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
4. Toss the cubes with maple syrup and salt.
5. Spread on the baking sheet.
6. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until tender.

7) Butternut Squash and Apple Salad

This salad combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the crispness of apples. It’s colorful and perfect for any meal.

Start by roasting the butternut squash until it’s tender. Use olive oil, salt, and pepper for flavor. While it roasts, chop your apples and prepare the dressing.

You can add ingredients like pomegranate seeds or feta cheese for extra taste. Toss everything together with your favorite greens for a delicious salad.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 2 apples
• 2 cups baby kale or arugula
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
5. Chop the apples while the squash is roasting.
6. In a large bowl, combine greens, roasted squash, apples, and any optional ingredients.
7. Drizzle with your favorite dressing and serve.

8) Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry

This butternut squash and chickpea curry is warm and delicious. It’s perfect for a cozy night in. The creamy coconut milk adds richness, while the spices create a comforting flavor.

To start, you will need diced butternut squash and canned chickpeas. You can also add spinach for extra nutrients. The curry is easy to make and comes together in one pot.

Allow the mixture to simmer until the squash is tender. You can serve this dish with rice or flatbread for a complete meal. It’s a great option for busy weekdays.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, diced
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced butternut squash and cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
5. Add the chickpeas and reduce the heat to low.
6. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
7. Stir in the spinach just before serving and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

9) Roasted Butternut Squash Tacos

Roasted butternut squash tacos are a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The sweet and nutty flavor of the squash pairs wonderfully with savory spices and toppings.

To start, you can use either fresh or pre-cut butternut squash. Simply toss it with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Chili powder, cumin, and salt add great flavor.

Roast the squash in the oven at 425°F (220°C) until tender. This usually takes about 25 minutes.

Once cooked, fill soft corn tortillas with the roasted squash, black beans, and fresh cilantro for a tasty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 2.5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn tortillas
• Black beans
• Fresh cilantro

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
3. Toss the squash with olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
5. Warm corn tortillas.
6. Fill tortillas with roasted squash and black beans.
7. Top with fresh cilantro and enjoy!

10) Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta

This dish is a comforting mix of flavors that you will love. Butternut squash pairs well with sweet Italian sausage. You can enjoy a hearty meal with minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan.

Start by sautéing the butternut squash until it’s tender. The sweet flavor will enhance when it caramelizes.

Cook the sausage separately, then combine them with your favorite pasta.

You can add sage for an extra layer of flavor. Serve this dish warm, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle some cheese on top if you like.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 lb (450 g) sweet Italian sausage
• 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh sage leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add butternut squash and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate pan, brown the sausage until fully cooked.
5. Combine sausage with squash and add pasta.
6. Toss in sage leaves before serving. Enjoy!

11) Butternut Squash and Black Bean Chili

Butternut squash and black bean chili is a warm and hearty dish that’s easy to make. It combines sweet squash with protein-rich black beans for a delicious meal. You can enjoy it as a main dish or serve it with rice or bread.

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot. Then add spices, butternut squash, and black beans.

Pour in some vegetable broth and let it simmer until everything is tender. You can adjust the heat level to your taste.

Top your chili with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for extra flavor. This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored for later.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
2. Add chili powder, cumin, and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Stir in the butternut squash, black beans, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30-45 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro.

12) Butternut Squash Pizza with Arugula

Butternut squash pizza with arugula is a tasty twist on traditional pizza. The sweet squash pairs well with the peppery arugula, giving you a delicious flavor combination.

To start, you’ll need to roast the butternut squash. This brings out its natural sweetness.

After roasting, spread it over your pizza dough and add cheese.

Once topped, bake the pizza until the crust is golden and crisp. Just before serving, add fresh arugula for a vibrant, fresh taste.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pizza dough
• 1 cup cheese (mozzarella or goat cheese)
• Fresh arugula

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the diced butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes.
4. Roll out the pizza dough on a baking sheet.
5. Spread the roasted squash on the dough.
6. Add cheese on top.
7. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden.
8. Top with fresh arugula before serving.

13) Butternut Squash Fritters with Herbs

Butternut squash fritters are tasty and easy to make. Packed with flavor, these fritters use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance their taste. They can be a delightful snack, appetizer, or side dish.

To start, you’ll need to grate your butternut squash. Mix it with flour, eggs, and your choice of herbs.

The mixture comes together easily and creates a wonderful blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Fry the fritters in a bit of vegetable oil until they are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes on each side. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated butternut squash
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or other herbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Grate the butternut squash.
2. In a bowl, mix grated squash, flour, eggs, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels. Enjoy!

14) Butternut Squash Pecan Pie

Butternut squash pecan pie is a delicious twist on the classic dessert. The creamy filling offers a subtle sweetness, while the pecan crust adds a crunchy texture.

To make this pie, start by roasting your butternut squash until it’s tender.

Blend it until smooth and mix it with eggs, sugar, and spices for flavor.

For the crust, you can use a pecan pie crust. This will give your pie a nutty flavor that complements the filling perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 prepared pecan pie crust
• 2 cups roasted butternut squash, mashed
• 3 eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the mashed butternut squash, eggs, sugar, and spices.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust.
4. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until set.

15) Grilled Butternut Squash Steaks

Grilled butternut squash steaks are delicious and easy to make. They offer a sweet flavor and a satisfying texture. You can serve them as a main dish or a side.

To prepare, slice the butternut squash into thick steaks. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick pieces. Then, brush them lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Place the squash steaks on the grill. Cook them for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be tender and have nice grill marks.

You can add other seasonings if you like, such as garlic powder or herbs. Enjoy your tasty grilled butternut squash steaks!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the butternut squash into 1/2 inch thick steaks.
2. Brush each steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat the grill to 350°F (175°C).
4. Grill the steaks for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Remove from the grill and enjoy!