Butternut squash is one of those ingredients that sneaks up on you, and suddenly, you’re putting it in everything.
For me, it started with a simple roasted side, just a sprinkle of salt, olive oil, and a bit of rosemary.
The caramelized edges, the sweet, creamy flavor—it felt like a little culinary discovery.
And from there, I was hooked!
Before I knew it, I was adding butternut squash to soups, mixing it into pasta, blending it into sauces, and even sneaking it into breakfast dishes.
It’s so versatile and brings a cozy, autumn vibe to almost anything.
Now, I’m sharing my favorite butternut squash recipes that explore all the ways this humble vegetable can transform a meal, from savory dinners to sweet treats.
Each recipe brings out its unique, comforting flavor, making it the kind of ingredient that’s impossible not to love.
Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes
Discover wholesome butternut squash recipes that bring big flavor without the extra calories.
These dishes highlight butternut squash’s natural sweetness and creamy texture, making it easy to create satisfying, nutrient-packed meals you’ll feel great about.
And they are perfect for your fall dinner too!
1. Butternut Squash Chili
Imagine a cozy bowl of chili with a sweet twist.
Start by browning ground beef or turkey in a large pot, then add diced butternut squash, bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
Toss in canned diced tomatoes, beans, and your favorite chili spices—think cumin, smoked paprika, and a hint of cinnamon.
Let it all simmer together until the squash is tender, and the flavors meld together.
Serve it up with a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream for a fall-inspired twist on classic chili.
2. Butternut Squash Curry
This is where sweet, creamy squash meets spicy, fragrant curry.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil.
Add cubes of butternut squash, carrots, and a tablespoon of red or yellow curry paste.
Pour in a can of coconut milk and a splash of vegetable broth, then let it all simmer until the squash is soft and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro on top.
Serve over jasmine rice or naan for a comforting, colorful meal.
3. Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
This sauce is a game-changer—rich, velvety, and subtly sweet.
Roast butternut squash cubes with a drizzle of olive oil until tender.
Meanwhile, cook your pasta and reserve a bit of the pasta water.
Blend the roasted squash with sautéed garlic, a splash of cream, and a bit of Parmesan until smooth.
Mix the sauce with the pasta, adding a little pasta water as needed to make it extra creamy.
Garnish with more Parmesan and fresh sage if you like for a dreamy, fall-inspired pasta night.
4. Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Gnocchi sounds fancy, but making it from scratch is surprisingly easy!
Start by roasting butternut squash until soft, then mash it in a large bowl.
Add ricotta, Parmesan, salt, and a bit of flour, and mix until you have a soft dough.
Roll the dough into ropes, cut into bite-sized pieces, and gently press each with a fork.
Boil the gnocchi until they float, then sauté in butter with fresh sage.
These little pillows of squash goodness are perfect topped with more Parmesan.
5. Butternut Squash Risotto
Risotto requires some stirring, but the result is totally worth it.
Start by sautéing diced onions in butter, then add Arborio rice and toast it lightly.
Pour in white wine, then gradually add hot chicken or vegetable broth, a ladleful at a time, stirring until the rice absorbs the liquid.
Meanwhile, roast butternut squash cubes.
Once the rice is creamy, add the roasted squash, a handful of Parmesan, and a sprinkle of thyme.
6. Sweet and Spicy Roasted Butternut Squash
This side dish is simple but packs a punch.!
Cube the squash, toss it in olive oil, then sprinkle with a blend of brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Roast until the squash is caramelized and a little crispy on the edges.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet heat, ideal for adding to salads, grain bowls, or as a side for roasted chicken or pork.
7. Butternut Squash and Chicken Orzo
This one-pot meal brings together tender squash, juicy chicken, and tiny, comforting orzo pasta.
Start by sautéing diced chicken breast in olive oil, then add onions, garlic, and butternut squash cubes.
Pour in chicken broth and orzo, then cover and simmer until the orzo is cooked and the squash is tender.
Stir in some Parmesan and a handful of spinach, letting it wilt.
8. Simply Roasted Butternut Squash
Sometimes, simple is best.
Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet.
Roast until golden and tender, turning once halfway.
It’s perfect as a side dish or tossed into salads, soups, or grain bowls.
This recipe is your go-to when you need a straightforward, delicious way to bring out the natural flavor of butternut squash.
9. Easy Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
This is a sweet take on roasted squash.
Start by tossing squash cubes with a mix of olive oil and maple syrup, then add a sprinkle of salt and a dash of cinnamon.
Roast until caramelized and soft, with a golden glaze on each piece.
It’s the kind of side dish that feels just right for holiday meals or any time you’re craving a little sweetness.
10. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
For a salad with a little extra something, start by roasting squash with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt.
Let it cool slightly, then toss with mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pumpkin seeds.
Dress it with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey.
The sweet, earthy squash pairs beautifully with the tangy cheese and cranberries, making this a salad you’ll want to make again and again.
Butternut Soup Recipes
Warm up with butternut squash soups that range from creamy classics to spicy twists.
Each bowl of soup is full of fall flavor, perfect for cozy nights in or an impressive starter at holiday gatherings. From Thai-inspired blends to simple, creamy soups, there’s something here for everyone.
11. Roasted Butternut Squash Feta Soup
This fall soup is all about the creamy, tangy goodness of feta paired with roasted squash.
Start by roasting butternut squash cubes with a drizzle of olive oil until caramelized.
In a pot, sauté onions and garlic, then add the roasted squash, chicken or vegetable broth, and blend until smooth.
Stir in crumbled feta for a tangy twist, adding creaminess and depth.
Top with extra feta and fresh herbs for a perfect finish.
12. Roasted Butternut Squash and Bacon Soup
Bacon lovers, this one’s for you!
Roast butternut squash while cooking bacon in a large pot until crispy.
Remove the bacon, but leave a little of the drippings to sauté onions and garlic.
Add the roasted squash and broth, simmering until flavors combine.
Blend until smooth, then top with crispy bacon pieces for a smoky, rich soup with a little crunch in every spoonful.
13. Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup
This combo makes for a naturally sweet, velvety soup.
Roast butternut squash and carrots until soft and caramelized.
In a pot, sauté onions, garlic, and a bit of ginger for a subtle warmth, then add the roasted veggies and broth.
Blend until silky smooth, then season with a little salt and pepper. It’s earthy, sweet, and beautifully orange.
14. Roasted Garlic and Butternut Squash Soup
For garlic lovers, this soup is a treat.
Roast a head of garlic along with cubed butternut squash until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
In a pot, combine the roasted squash and garlic with broth, adding a touch of cream for extra smoothness.
Blend until creamy and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
The roasted garlic brings a mellow, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the squash.
15. Thai Butternut Squash Soup
Take butternut squash in a Thai-inspired direction with this soup.
Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in coconut oil, then add cubed butternut squash, a can of coconut milk, and a splash of vegetable broth.
Stir in Thai red curry paste and a squeeze of lime for a soup that’s creamy, spicy, and a little tangy.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a touch of color and brightness.
16. Butternut Squash Vegetable Soup
This veggie-packed soup is comforting and filling.
Start by roasting butternut squash, then add it to a pot with sautéed onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Pour in vegetable broth, season with herbs like thyme and rosemary, and let it all simmer until tender.
Blend until smooth or leave a few chunks for texture.
It’s hearty, healthy, and perfect for using up extra veggies.
17. Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Sweet potato and butternut squash create a sweet and creamy blend in this soup.
Roast both veggies, then combine with sautéed onions, garlic, and a bit of ginger.
Add broth and blend until velvety.
A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg brings out the natural sweetness, making this soup cozy and satisfying.
18. Butternut Squash Tomato Soup
This soup combines the tang of tomatoes with the creaminess of squash.
Start by roasting squash, then add it to a pot with canned tomatoes, garlic, and vegetable broth.
Blend until smooth, then add a splash of cream if you like for a silkier texture.
Top with fresh basil for a soup that’s a twist on traditional tomato but with a cozy fall feel.
19. Spicy Butternut Squash Soup
For those who love a kick, this spicy soup is the one to try.
Roast butternut squash, then add it to a pot with sautéed onions, garlic, and a fresh chili pepper or a sprinkle of cayenne.
Add broth, blend until smooth, and finish with a swirl of coconut milk for a creamy, spicy bowl with just the right amount of heat.
20. Butternut Squash Apple Soup
Sweet and savory come together in this delicious soup.
Roast cubed butternut squash and a peeled, cored apple.
Sauté onions and garlic, then add the roasted squash and apple with vegetable broth.
Blend until creamy and add a touch of cinnamon for a hint of warmth.
21. Roasted Butternut Squash and Parsnip Soup
Parsnips add an earthy sweetness that complements butternut squash beautifully.
Roast both veggies, then sauté onions in a pot.
Add the roasted veggies with broth and a bit of thyme, and blend until smooth.
It’s creamy, with a slightly nutty flavor from the parsnips, and it pairs perfectly with a hunk of crusty bread.
22. Carmelized Onion Butternut Squash Soup
This soup has a rich, almost decadent flavor.
Start by caramelizing sliced onions slowly in butter until they’re golden and sweet.
Add roasted butternut squash, broth, and blend until smooth.
The caramelized onions give this soup a depth of flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
23. Roasted Butternut Squash and Chorizo Soup
This soup is bold and a little spicy, thanks to the chorizo.
Roast the butternut squash while cooking diced chorizo in a pot until crispy.
Remove the chorizo, then use the rendered fat to sauté onions and garlic.
Add the squash, broth, and blend until smooth.
Stir in the chorizo pieces before serving for a smoky, slightly spicy soup that’s full of character and flavor.
Butternut Squash Casserole Recipes
These butternut squash casseroles are the ultimate comfort food! With options like cheesy bakes, savory sausage combos, and sweet twists, these casseroles are hearty, crowd-pleasing dishes ideal for family meals or potlucks.
24. Butternut Squash Enchilada Casserole
Imagine all the flavors of enchiladas in one layered, cheesy bake!
Start by roasting cubed butternut squash until tender, then layer it in a baking dish with black beans, corn, and tortillas.
Pour enchilada sauce over each layer, topping with shredded cheese.
Bake until bubbly, then finish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and maybe a dollop of sour cream.
25. Butternut Squash and Feta Gratin
This creamy gratin has a hint of tang from the feta.
Thinly slice butternut squash and layer it in a baking dish with crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
Pour a little cream over the top, season with salt and pepper, and bake until bubbly and golden.
The feta gets creamy and melty, and the squash becomes soft and flavorful—it’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
26. Butternut Squash and Chicken Casserole
For a comforting, all-in-one meal, this casserole has it all.
Start by roasting butternut squash, then layer it in a baking dish with cooked, shredded chicken, wild rice, and a sprinkle of cheese.
Pour a little chicken broth over everything, cover, and bake until hot and bubbly.
The squash adds sweetness, while the chicken makes it hearty.
Top with parsley or fresh thyme for a complete, cozy dinner.
27. Butternut Squash Quinoa Casserole
This casserole is hearty, healthy, and full of texture.
Roast cubes of butternut squash, then mix with cooked quinoa, spinach, and a handful of shredded cheese.
Pour a little vegetable broth over it, season with salt and pepper, and bake until everything is hot and the cheese is melted.
It’s nutritious, filling, and a great meat-free option that everyone will love.
28. Butternut Squash and Orzo Bake
Orzo pasta bakes up so nicely with roasted butternut squash in this dish.
Sauté garlic and onions in a pot, then add cooked orzo, roasted squash, and a little vegetable broth.
Stir in some cheese, season with salt and pepper, and pour it all into a baking dish.
Bake until golden and bubbly.
The orzo and squash soak up all the flavors, making each bite creamy and delicious.
29. Butternut Squash Lasagna
This is a fall twist on classic lasagna.
Start by roasting butternut squash, then blend it with ricotta cheese to make a creamy layer.
In a baking dish, layer lasagna noodles, the squash mixture, a bit of marinara, and shredded mozzarella.
Repeat until the dish is full, then bake until bubbly and golden.
It’s cheesy, creamy, and the squash adds a subtle sweetness that’s perfect with the marinara.
30. Black Bean and Butternut Squash Casserole
This casserole is loaded with protein and flavor.
Roast butternut squash and layer it in a dish with black beans, corn, and cooked rice.
Pour over a little salsa or enchilada sauce, top with shredded cheese, and bake until everything is hot and melty.
The black beans add heartiness, while the squash gives a sweet balance to the spices.
31. Sweet Butternut Squash Casserole
This casserole feels a bit like dessert but works great as a side dish too.
Start by roasting butternut squash cubes, then mash them with a little brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of cream.
Pour into a baking dish and top with a crunchy mix of chopped pecans, oats, and a touch of butter.
Bake until golden and bubbly—it’s sweet, creamy, and full of fall flavor.
32. Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Give mac and cheese a creamy, veggie twist!
Roast butternut squash, then blend with a little milk until smooth.
In a pot, make a cheese sauce with cheddar and a bit of Parmesan, then stir in the squash purée.
Toss with cooked macaroni and pour into a baking dish.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden.
The squash adds creaminess and color without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
33. Baked Butternut Squash Frittata
This frittata is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Sauté onions and garlic, then add roasted butternut squash cubes.
Pour beaten eggs over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
The squash adds a touch of sweetness, making this frittata both savory and satisfying.
Serve warm or at room temperature—it’s delicious either way.
Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipes
Stuffed butternut squash is as delicious as it is stunning. Packed with tasty fillings like bacon, quinoa, or apples, each recipe transforms a humble squash into a complete meal or impressive side dish, perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
34. Stuffed Butternut Squash with Bacon and Spinach
This savory stuffed squash has everything you need for a comforting meal.
Roast halved butternut squash until tender, then scoop out some of the flesh to make room for the filling.
Sauté crispy bacon and fresh spinach, mixing it with the scooped-out squash and a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
Spoon the filling back into the squash halves, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
The bacon adds a smoky kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet squash.
35. Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash
This one is all about bold flavors!
Start by roasting halved butternut squash until soft.
Meanwhile, brown Italian sausage in a skillet with diced onions, garlic, and fresh herbs like sage or thyme.
Scoop out some of the squash flesh, mix it with the sausage filling, and add a little cheese if you like.
Fill the squash halves and bake until golden and delicious.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cool night.
36. Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta and Spinach
For a veggie-packed option, try this feta and spinach combo.
Roast butternut squash halves, then scoop out some flesh.
Sauté spinach with garlic, then stir in crumbled feta and a handful of herbs like parsley or dill.
Mix with the squash flesh, then spoon it back into the squash shells and bake until the feta is melty and the spinach is perfectly wilted.
37. Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spicy Chicken and Rice
This stuffed squash has a bit of a kick! Roast halved butternut squash, then scoop out some flesh to create a cavity.
Sauté diced chicken with taco seasoning, cooked rice, black beans, and a little salsa for flavor.
Mix with the scooped-out squash, then spoon the mixture back into the squash and bake until hot.
Top with shredded cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a spicy, filling meal.
38. Stuffed Butternut Squash with Ground Beef
Think of this as a low-carb version of a classic stuffed pepper.
Roast butternut squash halves, then brown ground beef with onions, garlic, and a little Italian seasoning.
Add diced tomatoes and a bit of cheese, then mix in the scooped-out squash flesh.
Stuff the squash halves with the beef mixture, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.
39. Creamy Lentil Stuffed Butternut Squash
For a protein-packed vegetarian option, try this creamy lentil filling.
Roast butternut squash halves, then cook green or brown lentils in vegetable broth until tender.
Sauté onions, garlic, and a little thyme, then stir in the lentils and a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness.
Mix with the squash flesh, stuff the squash halves, and bake until warm and creamy.
It’s earthy, comforting, and filling without any meat.
40. Quinoa Stuffed Butternut Squash with Mushrooms and Spinach
This quinoa-stuffed squash is both healthy and delicious.
Roast the squash halves, then cook quinoa according to package instructions.
Sauté mushrooms and spinach with garlic, then mix with the quinoa, a handful of Parmesan, and the scooped-out squash.
Fill the squash halves with the quinoa mixture, then bake until golden.
41. Stuffed Butternut Squash with Apples and Pomegranates
For a sweet, festive take, try this fruity stuffing.
Roast butternut squash halves, then chop apples and toss them with pomegranate seeds, pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Mix with the scooped-out squash, then stuff it back into the shells.
Bake until the apples are tender, then drizzle with a little honey.
It’s a beautiful, colorful dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners.
42. Easy Vegan Stuffed Butternut Squash
This vegan stuffed squash is both simple and flavorful.
Roast the squash halves, then sauté onions, garlic, and your favorite veggies (try bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach).
Add cooked rice or quinoa, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and mix with the scooped-out squash flesh.
Fill the squash halves, then bake until warm.
Embrace the Cozy Comfort of Butternut Squash
From creamy soups to hearty stuffed squashes and casseroles, butternut squash is the ultimate fall ingredient that transforms any meal into something warm and comforting.
So grab a squash, pick a recipe, and enjoy all the delicious ways this fall favorite can brighten up your table!
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