Easy recipes with butternut squash
Got butternut squash and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.
Brown Butter Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianitalian-inspired
Butternut Squash & Sage Brown Butter Pasta
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianlight
Crispy Butternut Squash with Harissa and Lime
30 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianspicy
Pan-Roasted Butternut Squash with Crispy Sage and Garlic
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianone-pan
Buttered Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage and Walnuts
25 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomfort-food
Lime-Cumin Roasted Butternut Squash with Crispy Chickpeas
35 min Serves 4vegetarianweeknightbright
Sage Butter Butternut Squash with Crispy Breadcrumbs
35 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomforting
Crispy Butternut Squash with Lime & Cilantro
30 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianfresh
Common questions
- How long does it take to roast butternut squash and how do I know when it's done?
- Roast cubed butternut squash at 400°F for 25-35 minutes until the edges are golden and a fork easily pierces the flesh. If roasting halves, it typically takes 40-50 minutes until the flesh is very tender.
- Can I use regular pumpkin as a substitute for butternut squash?
- Yes, pumpkin works well as a substitute in most recipes, though it's slightly watery and less sweet, so you may need to add a bit more salt and spice. For best results, use sugar pumpkins rather than carving pumpkins since they have better flavor and texture.
- What's the best way to store butternut squash and how long does it last?
- Store whole, uncut butternut squash in a cool, dark place (like a pantry) for up to 3 months, or in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks if already cut. Cooked squash keeps in the fridge for 4-5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- What proteins and side dishes pair well with roasted butternut squash?
- Butternut squash pairs beautifully with sage, nutmeg, and brown butter; serve alongside roasted chicken, baked tofu, or crispy chickpeas, with a simple arugula salad or grain like quinoa. It's also delicious in pasta dishes, curries, or as a taco filling.
- How can I make butternut squash recipes cheaper or more budget-friendly?
- Buy squash in fall and winter when prices are lowest, or look for slightly imperfect ones at farmers markets for discounts. Bulk out dishes by mixing roasted squash with less expensive ingredients like beans, lentils, or rice to stretch the recipe further.