Winter squash is a staple of cozy winter cooking, with its versatility and comforting warmth making it a favorite among many. From classic recipes featuring butternut and acorn squash, to more unique preparations showcasing spaghetti, kabocha, and delicata varieties, the options are seemingly endless.
While soups, salads, and casseroles offer exciting opportunities for creative experimentation, baked squash and simple side dishes provide a straightforward and satisfying way to enjoy this seasonal ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a light accompaniment, winter squash has something for everyone.
Cheesy Stuffed Acorn Squash
Winter’s warmth is encapsulated in this indulgent stuffed squash dish, featuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground chicken, sautéed mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and sweet onion creates a savory base that’s elevated by the pungency of thyme and rosemary. A sprinkle of parmesan adds a salty depth, while shredded cheddar and mozzarella melt into a golden, velvety topping – a true comfort food for the cold winter months.
Whole Roast Buttercup Squash
Roasting winter squash couldn’t be simpler, requiring minimal prep effort. To get started, simply give your whole squash a gentle wash and place it on a baking sheet. Allow it to cook until tender and starting to collapse, then serve as is (after removing the seeds) or enhance with a flavorful topping of your choice. Options like caramelized pecan nuts and crispy sage leaves add delightful texture and flavor contrasts.
Hasselback Butternut Squash with Cinnamon Butter
Ditch the Hasselback potatoes and indulge in the sweet and savory delight of roasted butternut squash instead. To prepare this delectable side dish, start by slicing a peeled and seeded butternut squash into thin strips. Next, drizzle the slices with olive oil to enhance their natural sweetness as they cook. Once the squash is tender, brush it with a rich cinnamon-vanilla butter and bake until it reaches a beautiful caramelized state.
Sauteed Butternut Squash
Savory butternut squash cubes are elevated by the satisfying crunch of toasted nuts and the tanginess of crumbled cheese. To bring out the natural sweetness, gently sauté the squash with aromatic honey and pungent garlic, then add a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture. Finish the dish off by topping it with creamy goat cheese and fragrant thyme, perfect for serving as a fall-inspired appetizer or side dish.
Butternut Squash Carbonara
Indulge in the rich flavors of this creamy pasta dish, which offers a bold and imaginative take on the classic carbonara. The key to this unique recipe lies in combining tender butternut squash with pasta water, then seasoning it with a blend of nutmeg, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. This harmonious balance of spices adds a deep, complex flavor profile that perfectly complements the dish’s other components. Crispy bacon bits bring a satisfying salty kick, while cooked spaghetti provides a sturdy base for the sauce. The crowning glory is the addition of egg yolks, which create a silky, smooth texture when stirred in. Finally, a sprinkle of shredded parmesan adds a decadent, creamy element that ties everything together. When serving, be sure to top with an extra sprinkle of parmesan for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash
Imagine indulging in a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors, all centered around a festive butternut squash. To create this culinary masterpiece, start by roasting your squash halves to bring out their natural sweetness. Then, fill them with a medley of mouthwatering ingredients, including crumbled Italian sausage, pungent garlic, sautéed onion, and the unmistakable aroma of sage. But that’s not all – add some sweet and tangy elements like apples and cranberries, crunchy pecans for added texture, and a hint of buttery spinach to tie everything together. Once your filling is ready, simply spoon it into the squash and place it under the broiler until golden brown perfection is achieved.
Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage
The harmonious union of delicata squash, sweet honey, and fragrant sage takes center stage in this culinary masterpiece. To bring out the natural sweetness of the delicate squash, combine it with caramelized shallots. Next, craft a delectable marinade by blending oil, honey, and the essence of sage. Toss the squash and shallot mixture with the marinade until they’re thoroughly coated, then roast until tender and golden, releasing the full depth of flavors.
Wild Rice and Butternut Squash
What sets this vibrant squash and wild rice salad apart is its delightful medley of textures. The nutty, chewy wild rice provides a satisfying foundation, beautifully contrasted by the tender roasted butternut squash and crunchy pistachios. Meanwhile, the juicy pomegranate arils inject sweet notes throughout. To tie everything together, simply drizzle with olive oil, honey, and red wine vinegar before serving. This show-stopping salad is one of the most impressive healthy Thanksgiving appetizer options you’ll find.
Butternut Squash Lasagna with Sage
In a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Italian flavors, this butternut squash lasagna takes the classic dish to new heights. To create the first layer, roast the squash until it’s tender enough to mash, then mix it with chicken broth and add a hint of fresh sage for subtle herb notes. Next, prepare the creamy, cheesy layer by blending heavy cream, ricotta, egg yolks, and shredded mozzarella, enhancing its richness with vegetable broth. Finally, layer the squash mixture, cheese sauce, and noodles, topping it all off with grated parmesan. Bake until the noodles are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly, resulting in a dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Roasted Delicata Squash Salad
Indulge in a symphony of textures and flavors with this show-stopping delicata squash salad. The sweet, caramelized delicata squash, roasted to perfection with a drizzle of maple syrup, serves as the crowning glory atop a bed of peppery arugula and tender baby spinach. The salty creaminess of crumbled feta and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts add depth, while dried cranberries provide bursts of sweet delight. To tie it all together, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup for a tangy vinaigrette that elevates this salad to new heights. This crowd-pleasing masterpiece is perfect for feeding a group at your next potluck or gathering.
Roasted Butternut Squash Curry with Chickpeas
Warm up to the comforting aroma of roasted butternut squash curry, where sweet and savory flavors meld together in perfect harmony. To unlock its natural sweetness, roast pieces of butternut squash before incorporating them into your curry. This adds depth and balances out the bold spices that follow. The foundation of your curry is built upon aromatic onion, ginger, garlic, and chili, which provide a pungent base for the spiced flavors of curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin to take center stage. A rich tomato base is achieved by combining tomato puree with vegetable stock, while sour cream adds a silky texture. The finishing touches come in the form of chickpeas, roasted squash, and wilted spinach, all topped off with crunchy toasted peanuts.
Butternut Squash Bread
The game-changing addition to traditional pumpkin bread is the incorporation of butternut squash, which yields a delectable flavor profile. To create this unique puree, roast the squash and mash it to perfection. Then, combine it with your batter ingredients and add a hint of vanilla extract for added depth. The resulting bread boasts an unmistakable sweetness.For the streusel topping, combine flour, coconut sugar, and butter for a delightful crunch. A pinch of ground cinnamon and ginger injects a warm, spicy aroma that perfectly complements the squash. This indulgent layer adds texture to each bite of your butternut squash bread.In a surprising twist, the sweet maple glaze is crafted by mixing powdered sugar with pure maple syrup. Once cooled, drizzle this luscious concoction over your freshly baked loaf for an unforgettable experience.
Butternut Squash and Sage Pizza
Elevate your pizza night with this delectable butternut squash pizza recipe. To begin, roast the squash in the oven with a dash of cayenne pepper and some fresh sage, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Next, caramelize some onions by cooking them down with butter and white wine, resulting in a rich and savory depth of flavor. Spread this caramelized onion mixture over your pizza dough, followed by a generous sprinkling of cheese – mozzarella, fontina, and parmesan blend harmoniously together! Finally, arrange the roasted squash pieces on top and bake until the cheese reaches a golden brown and starts to bubble, revealing a perfectly cooked pizza that’s sure to impress.
Winter Squash Soup Recipes
Winter’s chill can make meal planning a challenge, but incorporating hearty squash soups into your repertoire can add variety and warmth to your table. Here, you’ll discover the top squash soup recipes to elevate your cold-weather cooking.
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Winter’s warmth can be found in the simplest of pleasures – a rich and comforting bowl of butternut squash soup. The key to this velvety delight lies in the slow-roasting of its core ingredients: succulent butternut squash, carrots, celery, and apple, all infused with the subtle sweetness of shallots, pungency of garlic, and earthy aroma of fresh thyme. As these flavors meld together, they’re elevated by the deep, savory notes of vegetable broth, spicy warmth of fresh ginger, and herbaceous undertones of sage. Finally, a splash of milk brings it all to life, blending the mixture into a sumptuous and satisfying treat. And for the perfect finishing touch? A sprinkling of crispy bacon, delicate chives, and a dollop of heavy cream, adding a satisfying crunch and creamy indulgence to each spoonful.
Thai Pumpkin Soup
Indulge in the rich and velvety taste of Thai pumpkin soup, perfectly balanced with a subtle kick of chili heat. This delectable recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, utilizing the convenience of canned pumpkin puree as its foundation. A medley of onions, garlic, and ginger adds depth and complexity, while Thai red chili paste provides a gentle warmth. To achieve a smooth and creamy texture, combine coconut cream and milk. Finally, add a burst of fresh lime juice just before serving to deliver a revitalizing flavor profile. If you’re craving more flavorful fall soups, be sure to explore the numerous options available!
Roasted Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup
Immerse yourself in the comforting warmth of this roasted squash and carrot soup, a symphony of flavors that will leave you feeling cozy on even the chilliest winter days. To create this delightful brew, start by roasting butternut squash, carrots, and yellow onion cubes until they’re tender and infused with a deep sweetness. Don’t forget to add a whole bulb of garlic to the mix for an unparalleled depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. The aromatic trio of cinnamon, cloves, and fresh rosemary adds a delightful herby note, while cayenne or curry powder can be used to give it a spicy kick instead. Once your soup is blended to perfection, stir in some heavy cream to give it a luxurious and velvety texture that will leave you feeling like you’re wrapped in a warm hug.
Roasted Acorn Squash Soup
Savor the rich flavors of roasted squash soup, elevated by its creative presentation in an edible bowl. The subtle buttery taste of acorn squash provides a delightful backdrop for the sweetness that carrots bring to the table. Meanwhile, sautéed onion adds a depth of flavor that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.As you blend the veggies with vegetable stock, honey, and milk, the aroma of fresh thyme, sage, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper wafts through, evoking the warmth and coziness of a winter’s day. To finish, garnish with toasted pepitas for a satisfying crunch that adds texture to this already delightful soup.
Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup with Winter Squash
This hearty tortilla soup is a vibrant celebration of Mexican cuisine’s warm, comforting flavors. A robust base is built by slow-cooking whole cherry tomatoes with vegetable broth, onions, and garlic, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
The sweetness of orange bell pepper pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of winter squash, creating a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. To give this dish its unmistakable Mexican flair, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and red pepper flakes are added to the mix.
Brown rice and black beans provide essential sustenance and fiber in this nutritious soup, making it an excellent choice for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
To take your taste buds on a thrilling ride, top each bowl with crispy corn tortilla strips, fresh cilantro leaves, and creamy slices of avocado. And if you’re hooked on the flavors in this recipe, be sure to explore these other mouthwatering Mexican recipes for more culinary inspiration.
Spaghetti Squash Soup with Sausage
Packed with vegetables and boasting a rich meaty flavor, this hearty spaghetti squash soup is a true delight. The foundation of its success lies in the spicy Italian chicken sausage, which brings a warm, comforting taste to the dish. Aromatic onions and garlic add depth and complexity, while Italian herbs and red pepper flakes provide an added layer of flavor. To further enhance the texture and visual appeal of the soup, Swiss chard and sweet, tender carrots are added to the mix. And in place of traditional noodles, the spaghetti squash takes center stage, its tender flesh blending seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup
The pumpkin and sweet potato soup exudes a warm, comforting essence, while its thick, velvety texture only adds to its allure. A crucial step in bringing out the natural sweetness is through roasting the squash and potatoes, with Sugar Pie pumpkin being the perfect choice for this recipe. The sautéed yellow onion and minced garlic meld together to create an aromatic flavor profile, perfectly complemented by the herbal duo of thyme and sage, which are tailor-made to pair with the sweet potato and pumpkin. A judicious pinch of cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat, while roasted pepitas and fresh herbs provide a delightful garnish, elevating this humble soup to new heights.
Honeynut Squash Soup
Indulge in the warm, comforting essence of honey nut squash soup, where the natural sweetness is perfectly balanced by a hint of tartness from a crisp apple. The aromatic foundation is set by sautéed yellow onion and pungent garlic, while sprigs of thyme infuse the broth with a rich, herby depth. To bring out the full flavor, simmer the squash in a velvety blend of vegetable broth and canned coconut milk, allowing it to cook slowly over low heat for an unparalleled taste experience.
Baked Winter Squash Recipes
Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of winter, as we reveal our top picks for the most mouthwatering baked winter squash recipes. From classic comfort dishes to innovative twists on tradition, these scrumptious offerings are sure to become a staple in your kitchen this season.
Honey Balsamic Roasted Acorn Squash and Brussels Sprouts
The star of this holiday dish is the roasted acorn squash, boasting a stunning array of colors and tantalizing flavors. But what truly sets it apart are the visually appealing slices that can be tossed with a trio of complementary ingredients – balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil – to heighten the overall taste experience. And why not add some Brussels sprouts to the mix for an added layer of complexity? Meanwhile, a handful of fresh cranberries sprinkled in during the final minutes of cooking inject bursts of sweetness and vibrant hues, elevating this dish to new heights.
Baked Butternut Squash Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort from you. Simply bake it in the oven for a perfectly cooked texture that’s both creamy and flavorful.
The key to achieving this rich texture lies in using Arborio rice, which absorbs liquid expertly and yields an incredibly creamy final product. To take it up a notch, add some sautéed onion and garlic to the mix for added depth of flavor.
Vegetable stock is crucial for cooking the rice properly, while a splash of dry white wine adds a welcome layer of complexity to the dish. And let’s not forget the butter – adding it to the mix helps create an incredibly creamy risotto that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Finally, top your finished risotto with some shaved Parmesan cheese for a salty, umami flavor and a touch of authentic Italian flair. And don’t forget to add some crispy sage leaves on top for a delightful textural contrast – it’s the perfect finishing touch to this delicious butternut squash risotto recipe.
Sweet Baked Acorn Squash
The delightful sweetness of acorn squash can be further elevated by combining it with a few essential ingredients. To bring out the best in this nutritious vegetable, bake your squash into tender quarters. Next, enrich each piece with a drizzle of melted butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar. For an added layer of flavor, incorporate a pinch of cinnamon and then return the squash to the oven for a brief additional time.
Winter Squash Casserole Recipes
Winter squashes bring a sense of warmth and coziness to the table, making them an integral part of many seasonal culinary traditions. Among these comforting dishes, casseroles stand out as a quintessential representation of hearty, warming cuisine. The following recipes showcase the versatility and rich flavor profiles of winter squashes, highlighting their starring role in several delectable casserole creations.
Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Sausage and Spinach
Indulge in a hearty and flavorful spaghetti squash casserole that combines the savory sweetness of Italian sausage with the earthy tones of spinach. The tender squash provides a delightful contrast, while the heavy cream and egg mixture yields a rich and creamy texture. To add an extra layer of depth, incorporate sage and thyme for a hint of winter’s warmth. Finally, top it all off with shredded mozzarella for a satisfyingly cheesy finish.
Mushroom Bolognese Spaghetti Squash Casserole
A rich and satisfying casserole is born when combining earthy mushrooms with a blend of three cheeses. The meaty flavor of cremini mushrooms perfectly complements the Bolognese sauce, while sautéed onion, garlic, and dried herbs provide a savory foundation. A touch of heat from paprika and red pepper flakes adds depth to the dish. Layering this flavorful mixture over cooked spaghetti squash, then topping it with a harmonious combination of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese, creates a truly satisfying culinary experience.
Winter Squash Casserole with Crumb Topping
Imagine sinking your teeth into the ultimate holiday casserole – a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. The foundation of this delightful dish is tender butternut squash, expertly blended with coconut milk and oil to create a creamy and indulgent base. A touch of honey adds natural sweetness, while cinnamon and vanilla extract provide a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.But what truly sets this casserole apart is its crunchy crumb topping, crafted from pecan nuts, coconut sugar, flour, and oil. This sweet and nutty combination is given a warm, lightly spiced boost by the addition of cinnamon, creating a delightful contrast to the soft, squash-based base. Simply spread your crumb over the squash mixture, pop it in the oven until golden brown, and get ready to indulge in a truly unforgettable holiday treat.
Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Casserole
Imagine sinking your teeth into a delectable spaghetti squash casserole, infused with the rich flavors of Italy’s iconic carbonara dish. To bring this culinary masterpiece to life, start by combining cooked spaghetti squash with crispy bacon bits in a baking dish. Next, create your carbonara sauce by whisking together eggs and grated pecorino cheese, then season with salt and black pepper for added depth. Finally, mix everything together, sprinkling on extra shredded cheese – Parmesan is an excellent choice – before baking until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Butternut Squash Casserole with Sweet Potato
This hearty winter casserole combines the richness of earthy flavors with a touch of warmth from spices. The harmonious blend of roasted butternut squash and sweet potato provides a delightful base for the dish. A tangy sauce, crafted with oil, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup, adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Meanwhile, brown and wild rice contribute satisfying texture, while dried cranberries and raisins inject bursts of natural sweetness. Layering the vegetables and rice in a baking dish creates a visually appealing presentation, perfect for garnishing with fresh greens. As a healthy Thanksgiving recipe option, this casserole is an excellent choice for those seeking wholesome, flavorful meals.
Butternut Squash Casserole with Pecan Oat Streusel
What elevates this delectable casserole is the unique combination of textures, courtesy of a crunchy pecan oat streusel topping. To add depth to the dish, we’re using homemade butternut squash puree as the base, blending it with eggs, milk, and butter for a silky smooth consistency. A trifecta of sweet elements – maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract – provides an irresistible flavor profile.
The streusel topping itself boasts a delightful contrast in textures, courtesy of the oats and pecan nuts that add a satisfying crunch. Meanwhile, the warmth of cinnamon subtly balances out the sweetness, making for a comforting and indulgent treat. To finish, simply sprinkle the streusel topping over your squash mixture and bake until golden brown.
Vegan Casserole with Chickpeas and Butternut Squash
Indulge in the comforting warmth of this hearty chickpea and squash casserole, where an aromatic medley of onion, garlic, sage, and thyme melds together to create a rich tapestry of flavors. The velvety smoothness stems from the harmonious blend of tender butternut squash cubes, half-and-half, and vegetable broth. A symphony of textures unfolds as you combine this creamy sauce with succulent chickpeas and golden squash cubes in a casserole dish, topped with a satisfying crunch from vegan parmesan, black pepper, and thyme, evoking the cozy essence of a bubbling hot casserole straight from the oven.