15 Best Butternut Squash Recipe For Thanksgiving Make Ahead Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 23, 2024
If you're planning your Thanksgiving menu, one dish you definitely don't want to overlook is a delicious butternut squash recipe. Not only is butternut squash packed with nutrients and flavor, but it also makes for a perfect side dish to complement your holiday feast. And the best part? You can make it ahead of time, saving you precious time and stress on the big day. So let's dive into the best butternut squash recipe for Thanksgiving that will have your guests raving and coming back for seconds.
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Olive Oil, Thyme Leaves, Salt
If you're a fan of simple and flavorful dishes, then this roasted butternut squash recipe is perfect for you. The butternut squash is seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and garlic for a savory and aromatic flavor. Serve it as a side dish or add it to a salad for a hearty meal.
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Classic Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Carrot, Celery Stalk, Onion
Nothing beats a warm and comforting bowl of classic butternut squash soup on a chilly day. This recipe is vegan and dairy-free, making it a healthy and guilt-free option. The soup is packed with vitamins A and C, making it not only delicious but also nutritious.
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Mashed Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Butter, Brown Sugar, Pumpkin Pie
If you're a fan of mashed potatoes, then you'll love this mashed butternut squash recipe. It's a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, and the natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs well with savory dishes. Plus, it's a great way to sneak some vegetables into your diet.
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Butternut Squash Casserole
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Olive Oil, Bell Pepper, Red Onion
This butternut squash casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It's loaded with cheese, bacon, and crispy breadcrumbs for a decadent and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures will have you going back for seconds.
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Butternut Squash Fritters
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Large Eggs, Fresh Thyme, Flour, Fine
Add some excitement to your dinner table with these butternut squash fritters. They're crispy on the outside and soft and creamy on the inside. They're also a great way to use up any leftover butternut squash you may have.
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Butternut Squash Casserole (Vegan)
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Large Sweet Potato, Dried
If you're looking for a vegan and gluten-free option, this butternut squash casserole is the perfect choice. It's made with quinoa and cashews for a protein-packed dish. The squash adds a creamy and delicious element to the casserole.
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5-Ingredient Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Olive Oil, Salt, Ginger, Coconut
Short on time? This 5-ingredient butternut squash soup is a quick and easy meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. All you need is butternut squash, vegetable broth, coconut milk, onion, and garlic to create a creamy and satisfying soup.
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Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Avocado Oil, Small Yellow Onion
Roasting the butternut squash before making the soup adds a depth of flavor that you won't get with other methods. This roasted butternut squash soup is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It's the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold day.
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Stuffed Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Unsalted Butter, Kosher Salt, Basmati
Stuffed butternut squash is a great way to turn a simple vegetable into a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe is filled with quinoa, black beans, and corn for a delicious and nutritious dish. The butternut squash serves as a delicious and edible bowl.
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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Pasta Shells, Bacon, Unsalted Butter, Garlic, Shallot
If you're a fan of mac and cheese, then you'll love this butternut squash version. The squash adds a creamy and cheesy element to the dish, without the extra calories and fat. It's a great way to sneak some vegetables into a classic comfort food.
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Genius Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Butternut Squash, Full Fat Coconut Milk
This genius butternut squash soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. All you need is a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, and you'll have a delicious and hearty soup waiting for you at the end of the day. It's easy, delicious, and perfect for leftovers.
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Easy Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow Onion
Another quick and easy butternut squash soup recipe, this one is made on the stovetop and only takes 30 minutes to make. It's thick, creamy, and full of flavor. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
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Butternut Squash Ravioli
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Egg Yolk, Cinnamon, Salt, Pepper, All
Take your pasta game to the next level with this butternut squash ravioli recipe. The filling is made with roasted butternut squash, ricotta cheese, and sage for a flavorful and creamy filling. Serve it with a simple brown butter sauce for a restaurant-worthy dish.
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Butternut Squash Enchilada Casserole
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Yellow Onion, Poblano Pepper
If you're a fan of Mexican food, then you'll love this butternut squash enchilada casserole. It's packed with black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce for a flavorful and hearty meal. The butternut squash adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic dish.
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Butternut Squash Gratin
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Onions, Garlic Cloves, Butternut
This butternut squash gratin is the perfect side dish for any occasion. It's creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. The butternut squash is layered with garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese for a decadent and mouthwatering dish.
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Caramelized Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Coconut Oil, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt
For a simple and delicious side dish, try this caramelized butternut squash recipe. It's made with just a few ingredients and is sweet, savory, and perfectly caramelized. The butternut squash is roasted with balsamic vinegar and honey for a unique and tasty flavor.
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Savory Butternut Squash Casserole
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Butternut Squash, Salt, Black
This savory butternut squash casserole is a filling and satisfying meal. The butternut squash is combined with ground beef, spinach, and cheese for a flavorful and protein-packed dish. It's a great way to use up any leftover butternut squash.
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Simple Roasted Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Grapeseed Oil, Salt, Black Pepper
If you're looking for a simple and delicious way to enjoy butternut squash, then this recipe is for you. It's as easy as tossing the squash with some olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasting it in the oven. The result is tender, caramelized, and full of flavor.
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Creamy Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Mild Italian
For a hearty and flavorful meal, try this creamy sausage-stuffed butternut squash recipe. It's filled with sage sausage, spinach, and cream cheese for a delicious and satisfying dish. The butternut squash serves as a flavorful and edible bowl.
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Creamy Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Medium Carrots, Medium Yellow Onion
For a unique and flavorful twist on classic butternut squash soup, try this creamy roasted garlic version. The garlic adds a rich and savory flavor to the soup, while the butternut squash keeps it creamy and comforting. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in.
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Roasted Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Olive Oil, Thyme Leaves, Salt
One of the best ways to enjoy the sweet and nutty flavor of butternut squash is by roasting it. Simply toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. This roasted butternut squash can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to salads, pastas, and more.
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Classic Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Carrot, Celery Stalk, Onion
A classic butternut squash soup is a must-try for any butternut squash lover. This comforting soup is made with roasted butternut squash, broth, and a touch of cream for added richness. It's the perfect fall and winter soup, and can be topped with crispy bacon, croutons, or a swirl of creme fraiche for extra flavor.
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Mashed Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Butter, Brown Sugar, Pumpkin Pie
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, look no further than mashed butternut squash. This creamy and flavorful side dish is made by boiling or roasting butternut squash and mashing it with butter, milk, and seasonings. It's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and add a pop of color to your dinner plate.
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Butternut Squash Casserole
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Olive Oil, Bell Pepper, Red Onion
A hearty and delicious casserole is the perfect way to enjoy butternut squash as a main dish. Layer cooked butternut squash with a creamy sauce, cheese, and your choice of protein (chicken, sausage, or tofu all work well) for a filling and satisfying meal. Don't forget to top it off with some crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture.
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Butternut Squash Casserole (Vegan)
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Large Sweet Potato, Dried
Vegans can also enjoy the deliciousness of a butternut squash casserole by making a few simple swaps. Instead of dairy, use a plant-based milk and vegan butter in the sauce, and opt for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. This casserole is just as flavorful and satisfying as the traditional version, but without the use of animal products.
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Butternut Squash Fritters
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Large Eggs, Fresh Thyme, Flour, Fine
Looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy butternut squash? Try making butternut squash fritters! These crispy and flavorful fritters are made with grated butternut squash, flour, eggs, and seasonings. They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a vegetarian main course. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
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5-Ingredient Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Olive Oil, Salt, Ginger, Coconut
Short on time and ingredients? This 5-ingredient butternut squash soup is the perfect solution. All you need is butternut squash, broth, onion, garlic, and a touch of cream. This soup is quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a great option for those busy weeknights.
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Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Avocado Oil, Small Yellow Onion
Roasting the butternut squash before turning it into soup adds a depth of flavor that can't be beat. In this recipe, the squash is roasted with garlic, onion, and sage for a warm and comforting soup that is perfect for chilly days. Top with some croutons for added crunch.
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Stuffed Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Unsalted Butter, Kosher Salt, Basmati
Stuffed butternut squash makes for a beautiful and delicious main dish that is perfect for fall and winter entertaining. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and stuff it with a flavorful filling of your choice. Some popular options include quinoa and cranberries, sausage and apples, or black beans and corn. Top with cheese and bake until tender for a show-stopping entrée.
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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Pasta Shells, Bacon, Unsalted Butter, Garlic, Shallot
Mac and cheese gets a healthy and tasty upgrade with the addition of butternut squash. The squash adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness to the dish, making it a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Top with some bacon or breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture.
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Genius Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Butternut Squash, Full Fat Coconut Milk
If you're feeling adventurous in the kitchen, try this genius butternut squash soup recipe. It combines the flavors of roasted butternut squash, cumin, and coriander for a unique and delicious soup that will impress your taste buds. Serve with a dollop of greek yogurt for added creaminess.
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Butternut Squash Ravioli
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Egg Yolk, Cinnamon, Salt, Pepper, All
Homemade ravioli is always a treat, and filled with a butternut squash and ricotta mixture, it's simply irresistible. The ravioli can be served with a simple brown butter sauce or a more complex sage and walnut pesto for a delicious and elegant meal. Don't forget to top with some parmesan cheese for added flavor.
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Easy Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow Onion
This easy butternut squash soup recipe is perfect for those who are short on time and ingredients, but still want a delicious and comforting meal. Simply cook the squash with broth, onion, and garlic, and blend until smooth. Season with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and cozy flavor.
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Butternut Squash Enchilada Casserole
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Yellow Onion, Poblano Pepper
For a fun and flavorful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine, try making a butternut squash enchilada casserole. Layer corn tortillas, shredded chicken or black beans, roasted butternut squash, enchilada sauce, and cheese for a hearty and delicious meal that the whole family will love.
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Butternut Squash Gratin
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Onions, Garlic Cloves, Butternut
Gratins are a delicious and indulgent side dish, and using butternut squash as the star ingredient makes it even more flavorful and nutritious. Layer thinly sliced butternut squash with a creamy sauce, cheese, and thyme for a delicious and decadent side dish that pairs well with any protein.
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Caramelized Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Coconut Oil, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt
Caramelizing butternut squash in a hot pan brings out its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that is impossible to resist. Toss cubed butternut squash with honey, balsamic vinegar, and rosemary and cook until tender and caramelized. Serve as a side dish or add to salads for a delicious and unique twist.
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Savory Butternut Squash Casserole
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Butternut Squash, Salt, Black
For a savory and flavorful casserole, try this recipe that combines butternut squash with bacon, spinach, and parmesan cheese. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a satisfying and comforting dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday gathering.
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Simple Roasted Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Grapeseed Oil, Salt, Black Pepper
If you're short on time and ingredients, but still want to enjoy the deliciousness of butternut squash, try this simple roasted butternut squash recipe. Toss cubed squash with olive oil, garlic powder, and rosemary, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. Serve as a side dish or add to salads and pastas for added flavor and texture.
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Creamy Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Mild Italian
For a hearty and satisfying meal, try this creamy sausage-stuffed butternut squash recipe. The squash is filled with a flavorful mixture of sausage, spinach, and cream cheese, and baked until the filling is hot and bubbly. This dish is perfect for a cozy and comforting dinner on a chilly night.
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Creamy Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Medium Carrots, Medium Yellow Onion
Roasting garlic with butternut squash before turning it into soup adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. This creamy and flavorful soup is perfect for cold days, and can be topped with crispy shallots or toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and texture.
Making Ahead: The Key to a Stress-Free Thanksgiving
We all know how hectic Thanksgiving can be, with a million dishes to prepare and limited oven space. That's why making dishes ahead of time is a lifesaver. And when it comes to butternut squash, the flavors actually develop and intensify when prepared in advance, making it even more delicious. Plus, making it ahead allows you to focus on other dishes on the day of, without having to worry about the squash. Butternut squash is also a great make-ahead dish because it reheats well, so you can simply pop it in the oven to warm up while you're carving the turkey.
Ingredients:
To make the best butternut squash for Thanksgiving, you'll need:
1 large butternut squash
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Brush the mixture evenly over the butternut squash halves.
Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pricked with a fork.
Let the squash cool, then peel off the skin and cut into cubes.
Transfer the cubes to a baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
When ready to serve, reheat the squash in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Variations:
Looking to switch things up? Here are some other great ways to prepare your butternut squash for Thanksgiving:
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for some crunch.
Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a savory twist.
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the topping mixture.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
No matter how you prepare it, this make-ahead butternut squash recipe is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table. So go ahead and add it to your menu, and enjoy a stress-free holiday with this delicious and versatile dish. Happy Thanksgiving!