35 Butternut Squash Recipes You’ll Crave All Season Long

Butternut squash brings natural sweetness, velvety texture, and a pop of autumn color to both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you roast it, purée it, or tuck it into pastry, the golden gourd plays well with herbs, spices, cheese, and fruit. The ideas below cover busy-night dinners, weekend baking projects, and everything in between. Grab a squash or two and let the cooking begin.

1. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasting the squash before blending concentrates its flavor and adds a hint of caramel. Sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of ginger round out the base, while vegetable stock thins everything to the right consistency. Purée until smooth, then finish with a splash of coconut milk for extra richness. Warm crusty bread on the side turns the soup into a satisfying meal.

2. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Puréed squash sneaks extra veggies into a childhood classic without sacrificing comfort. Combine the bright orange purée with sharp cheddar, mild mozzarella, and a little milk to create a velvety sauce. Toss with cooked pasta, sprinkle on buttery breadcrumbs, and bake until the top turns crisp. The result is creamy, cheesy, and just a bit sweet.

3. Maple-Glazed Butternut Squash

Maple syrup, olive oil, and a dash of cinnamon coat squash cubes before they roast to tender perfection. The sugars caramelize, creating sticky edges that contrast with the soft interior. Fresh thyme keeps the dish from veering too sweet. It’s a simple side that feels special enough for a holiday spread.

4. Butternut Squash Risotto

Start by sautéing shallots and Arborio rice in butter until glossy. Ladle in warm broth while stirring, allowing the rice to release its starch and turn creamy. Fold in roasted squash purée and finish with parmesan for extra depth. Fried sage leaves add a crisp herbal accent on top.

5. Butternut Squash and Black Bean Tacos

Cumin-spiced squash and smoky black beans make a hearty vegetarian taco filling. Roast the squash until lightly charred, then toss with beans warmed in a skillet. Assemble in warm tortillas with fresh avocado, crumbly cheese, and a squeeze of lime. A quick pickled onion garnish adds tangy crunch.

6. Butternut Squash Lasagna Rolls

Spread roasted squash purée over cooked lasagna noodles, then add a layer of seasoned ricotta. Roll each noodle into a pinwheel and tuck them upright in marinara sauce. Bake until bubbly and golden on top. Individual rolls make serving neat and stress-free.

7. Curried Butternut Squash Stew

Curry powder, garlic, and ginger create a fragrant base for this one-pot dinner. Squash cubes simmer with coconut milk and vegetable broth until tender. Chickpeas add protein, while a handful of spinach wilts in at the end for color. Serve over rice or with naan for dipping.

8. Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Mix roasted squash purée with ricotta, flour, and egg to form a soft dough. Roll into ropes, cut bite-sized pillows, and simmer until they float. Finish the tender dumplings in a nutty brown butter infused with fresh sage. A dusting of parmesan ties it all together.

9. Butternut Squash Hummus

Swap half the chickpeas in traditional hummus for roasted squash to create a silky, slightly sweet dip. Blend with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth. A drizzle of good olive oil and crunchy pepitas give eye-catching contrast. Scoop it up with pita or spread it on sandwiches.

10. Butternut Squash and Kale Salad

Roasted squash adds warmth and substance to hearty kale leaves. Massage the greens with a maple-mustard dressing so they soften slightly. Toss in tart cranberries, toasted pecans, and creamy goat cheese. The mix of textures keeps every bite interesting.

11. Butternut Squash Pizza with Caramelized Onions

This pie balances sweet, salty, and earthy flavors. Scatter paper-thin squash rounds and jammy onions over a stretched dough, then add shredded mozzarella. Bake until the crust blisters and cheese melts. Finish with fresh sage and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

12. Butternut Squash Muffins

Puréed squash keeps muffins tender while adding natural color. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger provide cozy spice. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for crunch before baking. They’re excellent for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

13. Butternut Squash Chili

Diced squash stands in for meat, giving the chili a hearty bite. Simmer with beans, tomatoes, chipotle, and warm spices until flavors meld. The squash softens yet holds shape, adding subtle sweetness. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips.

14. Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells

Blend roasted squash with ricotta, parmesan, and nutmeg for a silky filling. Pipe or spoon the mixture into cooked pasta shells. Arrange over a light béchamel, sprinkle cheese, and bake until bubbly. Each shell delivers comfort in one tidy bite.

15. Butternut Squash and Apple Galette

Sweet-savory flavors shine in this simple tart. Layer thin squash and apple slices over a herbed goat cheese spread, then fold the pastry edges inward. Bake until the crust crisps and the filling caramelizes slightly. A drizzle of honey at the table highlights the fruitiness.

16. Butternut Squash Quesadillas

Spread spiced squash purée on a tortilla, sprinkle cheese and black beans, then top with another tortilla. Cook in a dry skillet until both sides turn golden and the filling melts together. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole. It’s quick, filling, and freezer-friendly.

17. Butternut Squash Pancakes

Squash purée replaces pumpkin for a fresh twist on classic fall pancakes. The batter includes cinnamon and vanilla for extra warmth. Cook on a lightly greased griddle until golden brown. They pair perfectly with toasted pecans and warm syrup.

18. Butternut Squash Curry with Coconut Milk

Red curry paste and coconut milk create a rich, fragrant sauce. Squash cubes simmer until fork-tender, soaking up all the spices. Add peas for color and a handful of fresh cilantro before serving. Spoon it over fluffy rice for a cozy dinner.

19. Butternut Squash Shepherd’s Pie

Swap traditional potato topping for whipped squash to lighten this comfort classic. The base combines lentils, carrots, and mushrooms in a flavorful gravy. Spread the smooth squash mash on top and bake until lightly browned. It’s hearty yet veggie-forward.

20. Butternut Squash Enchiladas

Roasted squash and black beans make a colorful filling for corn tortillas. Roll them up, lay in a pan, and cover with enchilada sauce and cheese. Bake until piping hot and bubbly. Serve with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

21. Butternut Squash Frittata

Sauté small squash cubes until tender, then pour whisked eggs over the top. Dot with goat cheese and sprinkle fresh herbs. Bake until the center sets and the edges puff slightly. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

22. Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad

Earthy lentils provide protein while sweet squash balances peppery arugula. A citrus dressing brightens every bite. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for juicy pops of color. The salad packs well for lunch the next day.

23. Butternut Squash Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce

Cut squash into thin half-moons or ribbons so it cooks fast in a hot pan. Add crisp vegetables and toss everything in a quick homemade peanut sauce. A squeeze of lime and chopped peanuts finish the dish. Serve over noodles or rice.

24. Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter

Whether you make or buy the ravioli, the filling features sweet squash and parmesan. Simmer the pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, brown butter with fresh sage leaves until nutty and aromatic. Toss the ravioli in the butter and top with pine nuts for crunch.

25. Butternut Squash Bread

Puréed squash lends moisture and color to this tender loaf. Brown sugar and warm spices amplify its autumn vibe. Stir in walnuts or chocolate chips if you like extra texture. The bread stays moist for days, making it ideal for breakfast or gifting.

26. Butternut Squash Hash with Eggs

Diced squash sizzles with onions and bell peppers until caramelized. Smoked paprika boosts the savory notes. Create little wells, crack in eggs, and cover until the whites set. It’s a satisfying one-pan brunch.

27. Butternut Squash Scones

Cold butter cut into flour ensures flaky layers, while squash purée adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color. A pinch of sage or rosemary gives a savory twist. Serve warm with honey or sharp cheddar. They freeze beautifully for quick weekday breakfasts.

28. Butternut Squash Parmesan

Slice squash into rounds, bread, and bake until crisp. Stack the pieces with marinara and cheese, then return to the oven until everything melds together. Fresh basil on top brightens the dish. It’s comforting without deep frying.

29. Butternut Squash and Sausage Skillet

The sweetness of squash pairs well with savory sausage. Brown the sausage first so it renders flavorful oil, then sauté squash in the same pan. Add spinach at the end for a quick wilt. Dinner is ready in about 30 minutes.

30. Butternut Squash Gratin

Mandoline-thin squash rounds stack neatly in a buttered dish. Pour over seasoned cream and sprinkle gruyère. Bake until the top turns golden and the squash becomes fork-tender. The rich side pairs nicely with roast chicken or steak.

31. Butternut Squash Smoothie

Blend chilled roasted squash with banana, almond milk, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. A spoonful of yogurt adds creaminess and protein. The drink tastes like pie in sippable form but without added sugar. It’s great for breakfast on the go.

32. Butternut Squash Pie

Think of this as pumpkin pie’s close cousin. Steam or roast squash, purée until silky, and blend with eggs, milk, and warm spices. Bake in a flaky crust until the center barely jiggles. Chill before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

33. Butternut Squash and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Butterfly thick chicken breasts and stuff them with roasted squash, wilted spinach, and a touch of cheese. Sear to brown the outside, then finish in the oven. The filling keeps the meat juicy while adding nutrients. A simple pan sauce ties everything together.

34. Butternut Squash Tagine

Warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon flavor this slow-simmered stew. Squash absorbs the aromatic broth, becoming tender yet intact. Sweet dried fruit and crunchy nuts provide contrast. Serve over couscous for a complete meal.

35. Butternut Squash Bruschetta

Spread garlicky mashed squash on crisp bread, then add tangy goat cheese. A drizzle of balsamic reduction delivers acidity that balances the sweetness. Sprinkle chopped rosemary for an herby note. It’s an easy appetizer that disappears fast.