Butternut squash is like nature’s little gift for comfort food. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfect for so many dishes.
Whether you’re cooking for the family or just looking to try something new in the kitchen, this versatile vegetable can do it all.
From cozy soups to hearty casseroles, even unexpected desserts, butternut squash can shine in countless ways.
This collection of 45 recipes will show you just how fun and easy it is to turn this humble squash into something truly delicious.
So, whether you’re a kitchen pro or just getting started, these ideas will inspire you to bring something tasty to the table.
45 Butternut Squash Recipes
1. Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasting butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a rich, caramelized flavor.
Just cut the squash into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake until tender.
You can enjoy it as a side dish or mix it into salads or grain bowls for extra flavor and texture.
2. Caramelized Butternut Squash
Caramelized butternut squash is roasted with a drizzle of honey and a pinch of salt, creating a beautifully browned, sweet side dish.
The natural sugars in the squash come out during roasting, giving it a rich flavor that pairs with any meal.
3. Moroccan Chickpea and Butternut Squash Stew
This stew is packed with warm spices, tender butternut squash, and hearty chickpeas.
It’s a filling and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a wholesome dinner. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
4. Southwestern Butternut Squash Soup
For a bold twist, this soup combines roasted butternut squash with southwestern spices like cumin and chili powder.
A little kick from the spices makes it a fun, flavorful dish that’s great for spicing up your meal routine.
5. Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
This soup is made in a flash using an Instant Pot, perfect when you’re short on time.
Butternut squash, onions, and broth come together quickly for a creamy, smooth soup that’s ready in minutes, with minimal effort required.
6. Slow-Cooker Vegan Butternut Squash Lentil Chili
In this slow-cooker recipe, butternut squash pairs with lentils to create a hearty and filling chili.
It’s a vegan-friendly dish that cooks slowly to bring out deep, rich flavors. Perfect for a comforting bowl of goodness on chilly days.
7. Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Combining sweet potatoes and butternut squash gives this slow-cooked soup a sweet, earthy flavor.
It’s smooth, warm, and naturally sweet, making it a wonderful option for a healthy and cozy dinner.
8. Red Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup with Za’atar Croutons
This comforting soup is packed with protein from red lentils and sweetness from butternut squash.
The real star is the crispy za’atar-spiced croutons on top, adding a crunchy texture and a pop of flavor to every bite.
9. Butternut Squash Soup with Swiss Chard
This soup brings together the richness of butternut squash and the earthy flavor of Swiss chard.
It’s a nutritious and tasty combination, perfect for those who enjoy wholesome, veggie-packed meals that are still satisfying and delicious.
10. Honey Butter Glazed Butternut Squash
For a sweet and savory side dish, try butternut squash glazed in honey butter.
The honey adds a touch of sweetness while the butter gives it a rich, velvety finish. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy roasted squash.
11. Mashed Butternut Squash
Butternut squash mashed to perfection is a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
With just a bit of butter and seasoning, this dish becomes a smooth and flavorful side. It’s easy to make and works well alongside your favorite meals.
12. Brown Butter Butternut Squash Pasta Salad
Brown butter gives this pasta salad a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted butternut squash.
Toss in some cooked pasta and a handful of fresh greens, and you’ve got a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
13. Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Using the air fryer makes this dish crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The air fryer method is quick and easy, delivering perfectly cooked butternut squash without much fuss. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices.
14. Butternut Squash Fritters with Garlicky Yogurt
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these butternut squash fritters are a fun way to enjoy this vegetable.
Serve with a garlicky yogurt sauce for dipping, adding a fresh and creamy touch to each bite.
15. Baked Butternut Squash
Baking butternut squash is a simple method that highlights its natural sweetness.
Just pop it in the oven until it becomes tender and golden. It’s a healthy and tasty side that complements almost any meal.
16. Roasted Butternut Squash with Tahini Walnuts and Za’atar
This recipe adds a Middle Eastern twist with roasted butternut squash topped with a drizzle of tahini, toasted walnuts, and a sprinkle of za’atar.
The combination of flavors makes for a unique, savory dish that’s sure to impress.
17. Pan-Seared Butternut Squash with Balsamic & Parmigiano
For a quick and flavorful side dish, pan-seared butternut squash is paired with balsamic vinegar and topped with shavings of Parmigiano cheese.
The sweet, tangy, and salty flavors make this dish a standout for any meal.
18. Butternut Squash Fettuccine Alfredo
A creamy twist on a classic dish, this butternut squash fettuccine Alfredo combines the sweetness of the squash with a rich, velvety sauce.
It’s a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
19. Stuffed Butternut Squash
This recipe takes butternut squash to the next level by stuffing it with a mix of grains, vegetables, or even a bit of cheese.
It’s a great way to turn squash into a complete meal that’s as filling as it is flavorful.
20. Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Rich and creamy, this risotto is made with tender butternut squash and a handful of simple ingredients.
The natural sweetness of the squash blends perfectly with the creamy rice, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
21. Crispy Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Mushrooms Sausage and Butternut Squash
This sheet pan recipe combines gnocchi, mushrooms, sausage, and roasted butternut squash for a crispy and flavorful meal.
The ingredients cook together on a single pan, making it an easy and convenient dish with minimal cleanup. The flavors blend perfectly for a satisfying meal.
22. Creamy One-Pot Butternut Squash Pasta with White Beans and Kale
This comforting one-pot pasta dish features creamy butternut squash, white beans, and fresh kale.
Everything comes together in one pot, making it both simple and delicious.
The beans add extra heartiness, while the kale adds a pop of color and nutrition.
23. Coconut Shrimp Curry with Butternut Squash and Spinach
This coconut shrimp curry is made with tender butternut squash, spinach, and shrimp cooked in a fragrant coconut sauce.
The sweetness of the coconut pairs beautifully with the mild flavor of the squash, creating a cozy dish perfect for a warming meal.
24. Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter
Butternut squash-filled ravioli tossed in sage butter is a simple but elegant dish.
The rich butter sauce with crispy sage leaves brings out the sweetness of the squash in every bite. Perfect for a comforting and sophisticated meal.
25. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
A creamy twist on a classic favorite, this mac and cheese recipe uses butternut squash for extra creaminess and flavor.
It’s a cheesy, comforting dish that adds a healthy twist with the addition of sweet squash. Great for kids and adults alike.
26. Butternut Squash & Sausage Lasagna
Layers of butternut squash, savory sausage, and creamy cheese come together in this lasagna recipe.
It’s a unique take on the traditional lasagna, offering a balance of sweetness and spice that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
27. Vegan Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash Shepherd’s Pie
This vegan shepherd’s pie swaps traditional ingredients for sweet potatoes and butternut squash.
The creamy squash layer on top of a hearty filling of lentils and veggies makes for a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
28. Butternut Squash Lasagna Pinwheels
Butternut squash lasagna pinwheels are a fun, bite-sized twist on classic lasagna.
Rolled up with cheese, squash, and herbs, they’re baked to golden perfection. They make for a great appetizer or main dish, offering a burst of flavor in every roll.
29. Sweet and Savory Butternut Squash Hummus Dip
This unique hummus dip combines roasted butternut squash with chickpeas for a sweet and savory twist.
It’s a great dip for veggies or pita bread, offering a smooth and creamy texture with a touch of natural sweetness from the squash.
30. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup With Coconut Milk
This soup is silky and smooth, thanks to the combination of roasted butternut squash and coconut milk.
The coconut milk adds a hint of sweetness and a creamy texture, making it comforting without being too heavy. Perfect for a simple yet flavorful meal.
31. Butternut Squash Tortellini with Brown Butter Sauce
This tortellini dish is filled with creamy butternut squash and tossed in a rich brown butter sauce.
The nutty butter flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet squash, creating a simple but flavorful pasta dish that’s ideal for a cozy meal.
32. Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili
This hearty chili combines tender butternut squash and ground turkey in a mildly spiced tomato base.
The squash adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices, making this chili a warm and comforting meal, perfect for any gathering.
33. Butternut Squash and Arugula Pizza
A light and fresh pizza topped with roasted butternut squash, peppery arugula, and your favorite cheese.
The combination of sweet squash and sharp greens creates a balanced and delicious pizza that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
34. Orange-Maple Butternut Squash Mash
This mash combines roasted butternut squash with a hint of orange zest and maple syrup.
The natural sweetness of the squash is enhanced by the maple syrup, while the orange adds a bright, fresh flavor, making this dish a sweet and savory side.
35. Butternut Squash Chicken Pot Pie
A comforting pot pie filled with chicken, butternut squash, and vegetables in a creamy sauce.
Topped with a flaky crust, this dish is rich and satisfying, with the sweetness of the squash adding a delightful twist to the classic pot pie.
36. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Warm Cider Vinaigrette
This salad combines roasted butternut squash, mixed greens, and nuts with a warm cider vinaigrette.
The sweet and tangy dressing brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making this a light yet satisfying salad for any occasion.
37. Upside-Down Butternut Squash Tart
This elegant tart features caramelized butternut squash, baked with a flaky pastry crust.
The squash turns sweet and golden in the oven, and flipping the tart upside down reveals a beautifully caramelized top, perfect for a special dinner.
38. Beef and Butternut Squash Stew
Tender beef and butternut squash come together in this slow-cooked stew.
The rich broth, flavored with herbs and spices, makes this a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a family meal on a chilly day.
39. Butternut Squash and Kale Stir Fry
This stir-fry brings together butternut squash and kale in a simple and healthy dish.
Lightly sautéed in a garlic and soy sauce mixture, the vibrant colors and flavors of the squash and kale make this a great weeknight meal.
40. Butternut Squash-Stuffed Shells
Large pasta shells are filled with a creamy butternut squash mixture, then baked until golden and bubbly.
The soft squash filling pairs beautifully with the pasta and cheese, making this a comforting and indulgent meal for any occasion.
41. Butternut Squash Pepitas
Roasted butternut squash chunks paired with crunchy, salted pepitas create a flavorful snack or topping for salads.
The soft sweetness of the squash and the crispy pepitas come together for a simple, satisfying bite that’s perfect anytime.
42. Butternut Squash Noodles with Sage
Butternut squash spiralized into noodles and lightly tossed with sage make for a healthy, veggie-packed dish.
The natural sweetness of the squash is balanced by the earthy, fragrant sage, creating a light yet flavorful meal.
43. Butternut Squash Frittata
This frittata is a delightful mix of eggs, roasted butternut squash, and a handful of herbs.
The squash brings a sweet, creamy texture, while the eggs and herbs make it a quick and nutritious option for breakfast or brunch.
44. Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Galette
A buttery, flaky crust filled with roasted butternut squash and tangy goat cheese creates a delicious and rustic galette.
The balance of savory cheese and the natural sweetness of the squash makes this a perfect dish for any occasion.
45. Butternut Squash Congee With Chile Oil
A creamy, comforting bowl of congee is given a flavorful twist with roasted butternut squash and a drizzle of spicy chile oil.
The velvety texture of the squash blends perfectly into the rice porridge, making this dish both hearty and warming.
Final Thoughts
With these 45 butternut squash recipes, you’ve got endless ways to bring something fresh and flavorful to your table.
Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy soup, a creative pasta dish, or something hearty and filling, there’s a recipe here to fit.
Each one brings out the natural sweetness and versatility of butternut squash, making it easy to enjoy whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself.
So go ahead, have fun exploring new flavors, and let these dishes inspire your next meal!
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