As the leaves start to change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting meals that celebrate the season’s bounty. And what better way to do so than with the humble butternut squash? This versatile gourd is a staple of fall cuisine, offering a sweet and nutty flavor profile that pairs perfectly with an array of spices, herbs, and ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of frozen butternut squash – from creamy soups to savory main dishes, and even sweet treats. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes perfect for fall.
Creamy Frozen Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors and textures, featuring roasted butternut squash, onions, and garlic, blended with heavy cream for a rich and velvety finish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop roasted squash into a blender or food processor.
6. Add chopped onion, garlic, and heavy cream to the blender.
7. Blend until smooth and creamy.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting) + 5 minutes (blending)
Roasted Frozen Butternut Squash with Maple Glaze
Roasted Frozen Butternut Squash with Maple Glaze Recipe
Roasting frozen butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, while a maple glaze adds a touch of sophistication to this autumnal side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-pound) bag frozen butternut squash cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the frozen butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the squash mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this comforting winter dish, featuring sweet butternut squash and earthy sage. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash puree
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in frozen butternut squash puree and cook until heated through.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Frozen Butternut Squash Curry
This creamy and spicy curry is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With the convenience of frozen butternut squash, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen butternut squash (about 2 cups)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the frozen butternut squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the roasted butternut squash and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna
This vegetarian lasagna is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, combining the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash and spinach with the simplicity of frozen lasagna sheets.
Ingredients:
– 1 (28 oz) jar of marinara sauce
– 2 cups frozen butternut squash puree
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8-10 lasagna sheets
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna sheets according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine squash puree, spinach, ricotta cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange cooked lasagna sheets, then top with squash-spinach mixture and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash Pancakes with Cinnamon
Start your day off right with a sweet and savory twist on traditional pancakes. These Frozen Butternut Squash Pancakes with Cinnamon are the perfect treat to warm up any morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add milk, egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in frozen butternut squash puree and ground cinnamon.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total
Frozen Butternut Squash and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the comfort of roasted butternut squash with the bold flavors of black beans and spices, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, these frozen butternut squash and black bean tacos will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a pan, cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add the cumin and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine the cooked black beans with the onion mixture.
5. Once the squash is cool enough to handle, peel and dice it into small pieces. Add the diced squash to the bean mixture.
6. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the tacos by spooning the squash and bean mixture onto a shell and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 45 minutes + assembly time
Frozen Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Transform a classic comfort food into a seasonal delight by incorporating frozen butternut squash into your mac and cheese. This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups frozen butternut squash puree, thawed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Add butternut squash puree, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and stir in heavy cream or whole milk.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Apple Bake
This sweet and savory bake is perfect for a chilly winter evening. The combination of roasted butternut squash, tender apples, and crunchy pecans will become your new go-to comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) frozen butternut squash, thawed
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine squash, apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Toss until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Dot the top with butter.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and the apples are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew
This stew is a perfect blend of comfort food and nutritious goodness, making it an ideal meal for a chilly evening. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of chickpeas, onions, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen butternut squash (about 2 cups)
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the frozen butternut squash and chickpeas. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Bacon Hash
Frozen Butternut Squash and Bacon Hash Recipe
This sweet and savory hash recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter morning. The frozen butternut squash adds natural sweetness, while the crispy bacon provides a smoky depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen butternut squash
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen butternut squash on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
4. Cook the squash for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the squash is cooking, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom.
7. Once the squash is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
8. Add the cooked squash to the skillet with the olive oil and stir to combine with any remaining juices.
9. Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces and stir it into the squash mixture.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart is a perfect winter treat, featuring caramelized frozen butternut squash and creamy goat cheese. With its flaky crust and velvety filling, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash puree
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion (see note)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butternut squash puree and caramelized onion. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with crumbled goat cheese and drizzle with honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roll out the remaining pastry to fit the tart and place on top. Crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup
Cozy up with this comforting and nutritious soup, perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is a twist on the classic butternut squash soup, adding protein-rich lentils and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen butternut squash (about 2 cups)
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Blend the soup until smooth. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of curly kale, all wrapped up in a light vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick and easy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized frozen butternut squash (thawed)
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the thawed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
5. Add the roasted butternut squash to the kale mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta
A hearty and comforting pasta dish perfect for a cold winter’s night, featuring the natural sweetness of frozen butternut squash and savory sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (e.g. penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash, thawed
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Once sausage is browned, add thawed butternut squash, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until squash is tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage and squash mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Pear Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring the comforting flavors of butternut squash and pear. It’s an ideal treat for a chilly winter morning or a pick-me-up after a workout.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and cored
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen butternut squash, pear, and banana to a blender.
2. Pour in the almond milk and add the honey.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or creaminess as needed.
6. Sprinkle with cinnamon for an extra boost of flavor (if desired).
7. Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Frozen Butternut Squash and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the comfort of stuffed peppers with the flavors and nutrients of frozen butternut squash and quinoa. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, these peppers are packed with fiber-rich goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash, thawed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together squash, quinoa, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Coconut Milk Curry
Warm up with a flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a cozy night in! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a deliciously aromatic spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 large frozen butternut squash, thawed
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the thawed butternut squash and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the curry has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Butternut Squash and Parmesan Gnocchi
This recipe combines the warmth of roasted butternut squash with the comfort of homemade gnocchi, all wrapped up in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a chilly winter evening or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cups cooked and mashed butternut squash
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Creamy Parmesan sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook and mash the squash.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, egg, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
5. Add the mashed squash to the dough mixture and mix until combined.
6. Roll out the dough into long ropes, then cut into 1-inch pieces (gnocchi).
7. Cook the gnocchi in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float.
8. Serve with creamy Parmesan sauce.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes total, including roasting time.
Frozen Butternut Squash and Chocolate Chip Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of chocolate chips with the comforting warmth of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a chilly morning or as a unique dessert, these treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen butternut squash, thawed
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the thawed butternut squash and stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious frozen butternut squash recipes, perfect for fall. From comforting soups and risottos to savory curries and sweet baked goods, there’s something for everyone. Try making a creamy frozen butternut squash soup or roasted frozen butternut squash with maple glaze as a side dish. Or, go all out with a frozen butternut squash and spinach lasagna or frozen butternut squash and black bean tacos. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to warm up your fall season.
