Mashed Butternut Squash
Enjoy the natural sweetness and nutty flavor of our mashed butternut squash. The versatile dish is perfect for holiday feasts and everyday meals.
Mashed butternut squash is easy to prepare with butter and basic seasonings, and it lends itself to many different variations. It’s a warm, velvety side dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with its natural sweetness, nutty flavor, and rich, creamy texture. This simple yet satisfying recipe transforms the humble butternut squash into a versatile accompaniment for various meals. Whether pairing it with a savory roast, replacing your usual mashed potatoes, or serving it as part of a holiday spread, mashed butternut squash offers a perfect balance of flavors and a touch of indulgence.
The magic begins with the squash simmering gently with butter and water. This method enhances the squash’s natural sweetness and infuses it with a subtle richness. A touch of salt and pepper brings out its earthy tones, while a sprinkle of brown sugar (if you prefer) adds a caramel-like depth. Once tender, the squash is mashed to your desired consistency—whether rustic and chunky with a hand masher or silky smooth using an immersion blender.
Add a splash of milk or water to make the mash as creamy as you like to achieve the perfect texture. This effortless dish adapts to your taste and dining style, offering an approachable way to elevate your meal. With its vibrant color, comforting aroma, and delicate flavor, mashed butternut squash is sure to become a favorite staple on your table.
Why You’ll Love It
Smooth and naturally sweet. Butternut squash shines with just a bit of butter and seasoning—no need to overdo it.
Easy and adaptable. Make it chunky or smooth, savory or sweet, or change up the flavor with just a few tweaks.
Perfect for holidays or everyday. It’s just as welcome on a Thanksgiving table as it is on a weeknight dinner plate.
Ingredient Notes
- Butternut squash: Use about 3 pounds (8 to 10 cups cubed). Fresh is best, but pre-cut cubes can save time.
- Butter: Adds richness—unsalted is ideal so you can control the seasoning.
- Water: Just enough to gently simmer the squash without boiling it.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste. Kosher salt works best for even seasoning.
- Brown sugar (optional): Enhances sweetness with a subtle caramel note. Light or dark both work.
Steps to Make Mashed Butternut Squash
- Start by peeling and cubing the squash into small, even pieces. Add it to a pot with butter, water, and salt, then cover and simmer gently until the squash is very soft—about 30 to 45 minutes. Check occasionally and add more water if needed.
- Once the squash is tender, add brown sugar if using, and let it melt in. Mash the squash with a potato masher for a rustic texture, or use an immersion blender for a smoother finish. Add more water, milk, or broth if it’s too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
Recipe Variations
- Bacon and Chives: Add crisp, crumbled bacon and snipped chives for a smoky, savory version.
- Curry: Mix in curry powder, cumin, and ginger for warm, aromatic flavor.
- Garlic Herb: Stir in roasted garlic with chopped thyme and sage for a savory herb blend.
- Mediterranean: Add lemon juice, a drizzle of tahini, and a sprinkle of za’atar.
- Mexican: Try chili powder, cumin, and lime juice. Finish with cotija and cilantro.
- Low Carb: Swap part of the squash for cauliflower.
- Protein Boost: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or silken tofu for creaminess and added protein.
What to Serve With Butternut Squash
- Pork, Ham: Savory, slightly salty baked ham and sausages pair nicely with the sweet flavor of mashed butternut squash. It can also complement other pork dishes, such as pork chops, pulled pork, and ribs.
- Beef or Lamb: Serve butternut squash with steak, lamb, pot roast, or hamburger steaks. You can also replace mashed potatoes with butternut squash in a cottage or shepherd’s pie.
- Chicken or Turkey: Add mashed butternut squash to a roast chicken or turkey dinner.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
To Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen if needed.
Mashed Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 3 pounds butternut squash, about 8 to 10 cups cubed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt , or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar, light or dark, optional
Instructions
- Peel the squash, cut it into 1/2-inch cubes, and put them in a large pot. Add the butter, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Turn the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and cook for 30 to 45 minutes or until the squash is tender. Check occasionally and add more water if necessary. Add the brown sugar (if using) and cook for a few more minutes or until the sugar has dissolved.
- Mash the squash until it is smooth, adding salt and pepper as needed to taste. If the mash is very thick, add some water, broth, or milk to loosen it up.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
Disclaimer:
Our nutritional information is based on a third-party application that analyzes the ingredients list to determine the values. The information is meant to be helpful, but should be considered an estimate. Values may differ depending on measurements, brands, serving variations, and database availability.
