20 Best Butternut Squash Recipes
Butternut squash is a delicious and versatile vegetable that shines during the fall season. It has a sweet flavor and a smooth texture, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for soups, salads, or main courses, butternut squash can be used in many creative ways. This collection features 20 amazing recipes that highlight this tasty ingredient.
These recipes are simple and easy to follow, making them great for any cook. From roasted butternut squash to creamy soups and hearty salads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Butternut squash adds a beautiful color and sweetness to your meals, and it can be paired with many different flavors. You can make a comforting butternut squash soup or a healthy quinoa bowl with roasted squash.
Cooking with butternut squash is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your diet. These recipes are perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. You can impress your guests with the unique flavors and beautiful presentations of these dishes.
So grab some butternut squash and get ready to cook! This collection of 20 recipes will inspire you to create delicious meals that everyone will love. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of butternut squash this season!
1. Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is a simple and flavorful side dish. The squash’s natural sweetness is enhanced by roasting, making it a great addition to any meal. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, it becomes caramelized and tender. This dish is easy to prepare and pairs well with various main courses!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss with Oil: In a bowl, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Serve Hot: Serve warm as a side dish.
2. Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This recipe combines roasted squash with spices and broth for a rich flavor. It’s easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or a light meal. Top with a drizzle of cream for an added touch!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 6
- Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for roasting
Instructions
- Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pot. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Stir in cream if desired and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
3. Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut squash risotto is a creamy and delicious main dish. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy rice. This dish requires a bit of stirring but is well worth the effort. Top with Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Squash: In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add the diced squash and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Rice: Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add Broth Gradually: Begin adding the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed. Continue until rice is creamy and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Serve warm with additional cheese if desired.
4. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash mac and cheese is a creamy, comforting dish with a twist. The addition of butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color. This recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. Serve it as a main course or a side dish!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 6
- Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 lb macaroni pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash puree
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Stir in butternut squash puree and cheese until melted.
- Combine: Mix cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well combined.
- Bake (Optional): Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes if you prefer a baked version.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
5. Butternut Squash and Black Bean Tacos

Butternut squash and black bean tacos are a delicious and healthy option for a quick meal. The sweet squash pairs beautifully with hearty black beans and spices, creating a satisfying filling. These tacos are perfect for a fun and festive Thanksgiving dinner. Top with avocado and cilantro for extra flavor!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 8 corn tortillas
- Avocado and cilantro for topping
Instructions
- Cook Squash: In a skillet, sauté the diced butternut squash with olive oil, cumin, and chili powder until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Black Beans: Stir in the black beans and cook until heated through.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave until warm.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill each tortilla with the squash and black bean mixture, and top with avocado and cilantro.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!
6. Butternut Squash Salad

Butternut squash salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that can be served as a side or main. The roasted squash adds sweetness and texture, complemented by fresh greens and nuts. This salad is perfect for a Thanksgiving gathering, adding a colorful and healthy option to your table. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a tasty finish!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- Balsamic vinaigrette for dressing
Instructions
- Roast Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, walnuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese if using.
- Dress Salad: Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a side or main dish.
7. Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

Butternut squash and apple soup is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the tartness of apples, creating a comforting and warming soup. This dish is perfect for chilly days and can be served as an appetizer or a light meal. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 6
- Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
- Sauté Onion: In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft.
- Add Squash and Apples: Stir in the cubed butternut squash and diced apples. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Stir in cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
8. Butternut Squash Pasta

Butternut squash pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines pasta with a rich squash sauce. The sauce is made by blending cooked butternut squash with garlic, cream, and spices for a delicious finish. This dish is easy to make and provides a unique twist on traditional pasta. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups butternut squash puree
- 1/2 cup cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a skillet, combine butternut squash puree, cream, garlic, salt, and pepper. Heat until warmed through.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
9. Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry

Butternut squash and chickpea curry is a hearty and flavorful dish packed with spices. The creamy sauce complements the sweet squash and protein-rich chickpeas, making it a filling meal. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs well with rice or naan. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pot. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Add Squash and Chickpeas: Stir in diced butternut squash, chickpeas, curry powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Coconut Milk: Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until squash is tender.
- Serve: Serve hot over rice or with naan.
10. Butternut Squash and Quinoa Bowl

Butternut squash and quinoa bowls are a nutritious and satisfying meal. The roasted squash adds sweetness, while quinoa provides protein and fiber. This dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Serve it warm for a healthy and filling option!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup cranberries (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted (optional)
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper for roasting
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add quinoa, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Roast Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa and roasted squash. Add cranberries and walnuts if using.
- Serve: Serve warm as a main dish or side.
11. Butternut Squash Pizza

Butternut squash pizza is a unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza. The squash is roasted and pureed to create a sweet and creamy base, topped with cheese and your favorite toppings. This dish is perfect for a fun family dinner or a cozy gathering. Enjoy it with a side salad for a complete meal!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 pizza crust
- 1 cup butternut squash puree
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Toppings of choice (spinach, mushrooms, etc.)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions.
- Prepare Sauce: Spread butternut squash puree evenly over the pizza crust.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella and any additional toppings over the puree.
- Bake Pizza: Bake according to crust instructions until golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Drizzle with olive oil and serve hot.
12. Butternut Squash Pancakes

Butternut squash pancakes are a delightful breakfast option that brings the flavors of fall to your morning. The sweet squash adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the pancakes. These pancakes are fluffy and delicious, perfect for a special brunch. Top with maple syrup for a delightful treat!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup butternut squash puree
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together butternut squash puree, milk, and eggs.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat a skillet over medium heat and pour batter to form pancakes. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
- Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup.
13. Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad

Butternut squash and lentil salad is a nutritious and filling dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or side. The roasted squash adds sweetness, while the lentils provide protein and fiber. This salad is colorful and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing touch!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Roast Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Prepare Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, cooked lentils, and feta cheese and walnuts if using.
- Make Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Dress Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature.
14. Butternut Squash Curry

Butternut squash curry is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. The creamy coconut milk complements the sweet squash, while spices add warmth and depth. This dish is easy to make and is a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Add Squash and Spices: Stir in diced butternut squash and curry powder, cooking for 5 minutes.
- Add Coconut Milk: Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until squash is tender.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot with rice or naan.
15. Butternut Squash and Spinach Frittata

Butternut squash and spinach frittata is a nutritious and delicious dish that is perfect for brunch or a light dinner. The sweet squash adds flavor and texture, while spinach adds a fresh touch. This frittata is easy to make and can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal ingredients!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cheese (cheddar or feta)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Squash: In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add butternut squash and sauté until tender.
- Add Spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Mix Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper. Pour over the vegetables in the skillet.
- Bake: Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until set. Serve warm.
16. Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew

Butternut squash and chickpea stew is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for fall. The combination of squash, chickpeas, and spices creates a flavorful and filling meal. This stew is easy to prepare and is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete dinner!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 6
- Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pot. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Add Squash: Stir in diced butternut squash, chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Broth: Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread.
17. Butternut Squash and Bacon Pasta

Butternut squash and bacon pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish. The sweet squash pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon and creamy sauce, creating a delicious meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 4
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Cook Squash: In a skillet, sauté butternut squash in olive oil until tender.
- Add Bacon and Cream: Stir in crumbled bacon and cream, cooking until heated through.
- Combine: Toss pasta with the squash mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
18. Butternut Squash Gratin

Butternut squash gratin is a creamy and cheesy dish that is perfect for a holiday gathering. Layers of sliced butternut squash are baked with cream and cheese for a rich flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests. Serve it as a side dish for Thanksgiving or any special occasion!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 6
- Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cheese (Gruyère or cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Ingredients: In a baking dish, layer sliced butternut squash. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour heavy cream over the squash and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until the squash is tender and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
19. Butternut Squash and Spinach Quiche

Butternut squash and spinach quiche is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for brunch or a light dinner. The combination of sweet squash and fresh spinach creates a flavorful filling in a flaky crust. This quiche is easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It’s a great option for a holiday gathering!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 6
- Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cheese (cheddar or feta)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the pie crust in a pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork.
- Sauté Squash and Spinach: In a skillet, sauté butternut squash until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed vegetables and cheese.
- Bake: Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Serve warm.
20. Butternut Squash Chocolate Chip Muffins

Butternut squash chocolate chip muffins are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of squash with rich chocolate. These muffins are moist and flavorful, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. They are easy to make and a fun way to use butternut squash. Serve them warm or at room temperature!
Serving and Time
- Servings: 12
- Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup butternut squash puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with liners.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, mix butternut squash puree, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Stir in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Bake Muffins: Pour the batter into the muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Serve warm.