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10 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes to Make Right Now

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October 28, 2024
Courtesy of Well Plated

Fall can be so much fun. And after all the pumpkin carving, apple picking, and other seasonal festivities are done, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Keep the fall theme going by adding these delicious butternut squash recipes to your meal plan for the week.

Though we love it for its sweet and nutty flavor, butternut squash is also highly nutritious, filled with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants to keep you feeling well and energized. With these recipes, you’ll find the inspo you need to include it in all kinds of meals and snacks throughout the season.

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1. Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash

Cinnamon roasted butternut squash

Roasting is a must in any list of butternut squash recipes, but what makes this one special is the perfect combo of seasonings. Maple syrup and cinnamon add sweetness, balanced perfectly with savory olive oil, the bite of black pepper, and fragrant rosemary. This dish feels special enough for a holiday table, but with just 10 minutes of hands-on prep, it’s doable on a weeknight.

Try this recipe from Well Plated.

2. Jumbo Butternut Squash Ravioli with Kale Pesto

cutting open a butternut squash ravioli

In this recipe, you use wonton wrappers instead of traditional pasta in a brilliant twist on butternut squash ravioli. Mash the roasted squash with ricotta and parmesan cheese for a delectable filling. The kale pesto takes just 5 minutes to make and you can use it on other pastas, or mix it with yogurt for a tasty dip.

Try this recipe from Pinch of Yum.

3. Vegan Jalapeno Butternut Squash Queso

vegan butternut squash queso dip

Game day just got so much better. Cashews, roasted squash, and nutritional yeast come together to make a plant-based version of queso that’s cheesy and satisfying. Serve it with chips, drizzle it over nachos, or spread it in mini-quesadillas.

Try this recipe from Ambitious Kitchen.

4. Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Banana Bread

slicing up a butternut squash bread

You’ve probably had pumpkin banana bread before, so why not butternut squash? It’s hearty and comforting as a snack, and gluten free thanks to a combo of almond flour, gluten-free flour blend, and oats. Top it with a drizzle of honey or spread on some whipped ricotta cheese. Added bonus: While it bakes, the house will smell amazing.

Try this recipe from Minimalist Baker.

5. Healthy Butternut Squash Muffins

Butternut squash muffins

If muffins are more your thing, this recipe is for you. Whether you choose chai spices or pumpkin pie spice, you’ll find these just sweet enough, warming, and filling, with plenty of fiber thanks t the oat flour base. They’re gluten free (use certified gluten free oats to be certain) and dairy free as well.

Try this recipe from Gimme Some Oven.

6. Roasted Butternut Squash Hash with Apples and Bacon

Butternut squash hash

Serve this with fried eggs on top for breakfast, or add some greens and enjoy it alongside whatever protein you’re having for dinner — either way, it’s hearty and crowd pleasing. Roasting it instead of frying means you can use less oil and still get that crisp texture. Bonus: If you’re in the middle of a Whole30, this recipe still fits.

Try this recipe from Paleo Running Momma.

7. Air Fryer Butternut Squash

air fryer butternut squash on a plate

If you have an air fryer (which it seems everyone does these days), you know that it’s the quickest and easiest way to make vegetables irresistible. In this recipe, you simply toss the squash cubes with a little olive oil and a few pantry spices, then let the air fryer work its magic to make them satisfyingly crisp on the outside and tender inside.

Try this recipe from Ahead of Thyme.

8. Vegan Butternut Squash Mac & “Cheese”

butternut squash mac and cheese

It seems impossible that this creamy, rich mac and cheese is plant-based, but it is. Combine the squash with cashews and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and velvety texture. Serve it over noodles, or on top of roasted cauliflower for even more nutrients.

Try our recipe on Clean Plates.

9. Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash

Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash

Step aside, potatoes — this mashed side features butternut squash instead for a sweet and nutritious twist. Serve it any time you would serve mashed potatoes, and watch it disappear. It would even make a welcome change for holiday meals. Replace some of the squash with parsnips for a different taste.

Try our recipe on Clean Plates.

10. Butternut Squash Soup with Turmeric

Butternut squash soup with turmeric

On chilly evenings, warm up with a delicious cup of butternut squash soup with an added zing of anti-inflammatory turmeric. It also has coriander, cumin, and ginger to keep you feeling warm and cozy. Bring home a rotisserie chicken and enjoy this soup on the side, or whip up a quick salad for a plant-based meal.

Try our recipe on Clean Plates.

Read next: 11 Canned Pumpkin Recipes That Will Get You Excited for Fall

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