Sensational Butternut Squash Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time filled with joy, warmth, and delicious food. One ingredient that shines on the holiday table is butternut squash. Its vibrant color, sweet flavor, and versatility make it a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving feast. Today, I’m excited to share some delightful butternut squash recipes that are perfect for the occasion, with each recipe taking about 60-90 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or something sweet, I have you covered!

Butternut squash is not just a seasonal favorite but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Its lovely orange hue adds visual appeal to your meal while providing a cozy, comforting flavor. Whether roasted, pureed, or combined with spices, butternut squash can elevate any Thanksgiving dish.

Choosing the right butternut squash is crucial. Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size, has a smooth, tan skin, and is free of blemishes. When it comes to prep, cut the squash using a sharp knife and peel it carefully with a vegetable peeler. There are various ways to cook butternut squash—roasting brings out its natural sweetness, while steaming can preserve its nutrients. Do keep in mind the method you choose will impact the flavor and texture.

Classic Roasted Butternut Squash

One of my all-time favorite ways to enjoy butternut squash is through a classic roast. It develops a rich, caramelized flavor and a creamy texture, making it a wonderful side dish for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients for Classic Roasted Butternut Squash

• 1 large butternut squash (about 4 lb)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Classic Roasted Butternut Squash

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Cut the butternut squash in half length-wise, then use a large spoon to scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the butternut squash halves on a baking sheet cut side up, then brush with melted butter.
4. Bake for about 65-75 minutes or until the squash is tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool enough to handle.
5. Scoop out the flesh from the squash and place it into a large bowl. Add the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix it with an electric mixer on low until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper and mix to combine.
6. Serve hot.

Cook’s Notes & Variations for Classic Roasted Butternut Squash

For perfectly roasted squash, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. You can also switch things up by replacing brown sugar with maple syrup or adding warm spices like nutmeg or ginger. A sprinkle of chopped pecans on top after roasting adds a lovely crunch. If you want to prep ahead, roast the squash a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

Nutrition Information for Classic Roasted Butternut Squash

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 serving	180	8g	26g	2g

Butternut Squash Gratin

Next up is a creamy butternut squash gratin. This dish is a sophisticated take on the traditional squash fare, with layers of flavor and a golden, cheesy topping that will impress your guests. For more impressive holiday appetizers, consider a festive cheese ball to start your meal.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Gratin

• 1 large butternut squash (about 4 lb)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Gruyère or cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Butternut Squash Gratin

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Peel and thinly slice the butternut squash.
3. In a large bowl, mix together heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer half of the butternut squash in a greased baking dish, pour half of the cream mixture over it, and sprinkle half of the cheese on top. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the squash is tender and the top is golden brown.

Cook’s Notes & Variations for Butternut Squash Gratin

For the perfect gratin, pair it with a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor and add breadcrumbs on top for crunch. You can also adapt this dish by adding cooked sausage or different herbs. This dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it perfect for busy Thanksgiving preparations.

Nutrition Information for Butternut Squash Gratin

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 serving	250	15g	20g	8g

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

For a light yet satisfying appetizer, a creamy butternut squash soup is a lovely option. Its smooth texture and rich flavor can warm up any chilly Thanksgiving day.

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

• 1 large butternut squash (about 4 lb)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

1. Peel and cube the butternut squash.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the butternut squash and broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 25 minutes.
4. Blend the soup until smooth and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook’s Notes & Variations for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

To ensure a velvety texture, blend the soup thoroughly using an immersion blender. You can twist the flavors by adding curry powder or ginger. This soup can easily be made ahead and frozen for later.

Nutrition Information for Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 serving	180	8g	24g	3g

Savory Butternut Squash Casserole

A savory butternut squash casserole is another fantastic Thanksgiving addition. You’ll love the combination of flavors and the heartiness it brings to the table. If you enjoy hearty, baked dishes, you might also like a cheesy ground beef and potato casserole.

Ingredients for Savory Butternut Squash Casserole

• 1 large butternut squash (about 4 lb)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Savory Butternut Squash Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash and boil until tender.
3. In a large bowl, mix the squash with milk, cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden.

Cook’s Notes & Variations for Savory Butternut Squash Casserole

This casserole works wonderfully with added herbs, nuts, or dried cranberries for sweetness. If you want to make it ahead, prep the mixture and store it in the refrigerator before baking on the day of your gathering.

Nutrition Information for Savory Butternut Squash Casserole

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 serving	230	10g	32g	6g

Sweet Butternut Squash Puree

To finish off my butternut squash lineup, a sweet butternut squash puree brings a delightful twist, making it an excellent side dish or dessert component.

Ingredients for Sweet Butternut Squash Puree

• 1 large butternut squash (about 4 lb)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Salt to taste

Instructions for Sweet Butternut Squash Puree

1. Begin by steaming or roasting the butternut squash until soft.
2. Scoop the flesh into a blender and add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Blend until smooth and adjust sweetness to your liking.

Cook’s Notes & Variations for Sweet Butternut Squash Puree

For a richer flavor, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. This puree can be made ahead and frozen for up to three months.

Nutrition Information for Sweet Butternut Squash Puree

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 serving	120	1g	30g	2g

Thanksgiving Butternut Squash: Prep & Serving Tips

When preparing for Thanksgiving, make ahead options can save you valuable time. Roasted butternut squash can be stored in the fridge and reheated quickly before serving. Pair butternut squash dishes with cranberry sauce, stuffing, a hearty main course like harvest chicken, or turkey for a well-rounded meal. Presentation can elevate your table; try using decorative serving dishes and garnishing with fresh herbs.

Butternut Squash Thanksgiving Recipes: Dietary Adaptations

It’s easy to adapt these recipes to meet different dietary needs. Here’s a quick guide:

Dietary Need	Original Ingredient	Substitution
Vegan	Butter	Vegan butter or olive oil
Gluten-Free	Breadcrumbs	Gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour
Less Sugar	Brown Sugar	Maple syrup or stevia

Essential Kitchen Tools for Butternut Squash Recipes

To make your butternut squash preparations easier, here are some essential tools:

• Sharp Knife: To cut through the tough skin and flesh.
• Vegetable Peeler: Helps in peeling the squash easily.
• Baking Sheet: Perfect for roasting.
• Blender: Needed for soups and purees.

Frequently Asked Questions

My squash isn’t tender, what went wrong? It might not have cooked long enough. Ensure it’s fork-tender by giving it more time in the oven.

How to make it more savory/sweet? Adjust the seasonings by adding more spices or sugar based on your taste.

Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Incorporating butternut squash into your Thanksgiving menu can brighten up your meal while providing comfort and taste. I encourage you to try out these recipes and customize them to fit your family’s tastes. After all, holiday cooking is about loving what you create and sharing it with those you cherish. Let me know how it goes—leave a comment, ask a question, or share your own creations. Happy cooking!