What To Make From Butternut Squash

What to Make from Butternut Squash

What to make from butternut squash is one of the best questions you can ask once fall arrives.
 
 
This sweet, nutty winter squash is incredibly versatile and works in everything from soups to desserts.
 
 
If you’ve been staring at a butternut squash on your counter wondering what to make from it, you’re in the right place.
 
 
In this post, we’ll explore the best things to make from butternut squash, along with tips to get the most flavor out of every dish.
 
 
Let’s dive in.
 
 

1. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

The most classic answer to what to make from butternut squash is a rich, velvety soup.
 
 
Butternut squash soup is comforting, easy to make, and perfect for chilly evenings.
 
 
You simply roast the squash with onions and garlic, then blend everything with broth until smooth.
 
 
A splash of cream or coconut milk takes it to the next level.
 
 
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to bring out the natural sweetness.
 
 
This is one of the simplest dishes to make from butternut squash and it never disappoints.
 
 

2. Roasted Butternut Squash Side Dish

If you want something simple, roasting is the way to go when deciding what to make from butternut squash.
 
 
Cubed butternut squash tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper roasts beautifully in about 25 minutes.
 
 
You can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
 
 
A drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze makes it caramelize beautifully.
 
 
This side dish pairs well with chicken, pork, or any holiday meal.
 
 
It’s proof that you don’t need complicated recipes to make something delicious from butternut squash.
 
 

3. Butternut Squash Pasta and Risotto

Butternut squash works wonderfully in pasta dishes and risotto.
 
 
You can puree roasted squash into a creamy sauce for fettuccine or penne.
 
 
The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with sage, brown butter, and parmesan.
 
 
For risotto, stir in mashed butternut squash near the end of cooking for a golden, flavorful dish.
 
 
This is a hearty way to make a satisfying meal from butternut squash that even picky eaters will enjoy.
 
 

4. Butternut Squash Baked Goods and Desserts

You might be surprised that one of the best things to make from butternut squash is dessert.
 
 
Its natural sweetness makes it a great substitute for pumpkin in pies, muffins, and breads.
 
 
Butternut squash muffins with cinnamon and nutmeg are moist and delicious.
 
 
You can also make a butternut squash pie that tastes almost identical to pumpkin pie.
 
 
Roasted squash puree works in pancakes, waffles, and even cheesecake.
 
 
So if you’re wondering what to make from butternut squash for dessert, you have plenty of sweet options.
 
 

5. Butternut Squash Salads and Grain Bowls

Roasted butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness to salads and grain bowls.
 
 
Toss cubes of roasted squash with spinach, goat cheese, pecans, and dried cranberries.
 
 
A simple vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully.
 
 
For grain bowls, combine butternut squash with quinoa, farro, or wild rice.
 
 
Add chickpeas, kale, and a tahini dressing for a filling, nutritious meal.
 
 
This is a great way to make a healthy lunch or dinner from butternut squash.
 
 

Tips for Cooking Butternut Squash

Before you decide what to make from butternut squash, here are a few helpful tips.
 
 
First, choose a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a matte, tan skin.
 
 
To make peeling easier, microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin.
 
 
You can roast, steam, boil, or even cook butternut squash in an air fryer.
 
 
Roasting brings out the deepest flavor, so it’s often the best choice.
 
 
Store cut squash in the fridge for up to five days in an airtight container.
 
 
Cooked butternut squash freezes well for up to three months, so you can enjoy it anytime.
 
 

So, What to Make from Butternut Squash?

What to make from butternut squash really comes down to what you’re in the mood for.
 
 
Whether you want a cozy soup, a hearty pasta, a fresh salad, or a sweet dessert, butternut squash can do it all.
 
 
This versatile squash is affordable, nutritious, and packed with flavor.
 
 
So grab a butternut squash on your next grocery run and try one of these ideas.
 
 
Once you start cooking with it, you’ll never run out of answers to what to make from butternut squash again.