This mashed butternut squash is a warm and comforting dish that’s as colorful as it is tasty! Creamy and slightly sweet, it’s perfect as a side for any meal.
I love how easy it is to make; just roast the squash, mash it up, and season to taste. Sometimes I add a dash of cinnamon for fun! It always brightens my dinner table. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for a squash with a firm skin and a rich color. If you can’t find butternut, sweet potatoes or canned pumpkin can be good substitutes as they have a similar texture and sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds creaminess and flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Olive oil can also work for a lighter touch!
Milk or Cream: Whole milk or cream makes the mash extra creamy. For a lighter option, use almond milk or oat milk. Adjust the amount depending on how creamy you want it.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, but feel free to experiment with ginger or allspice for different flavor notes. If you prefer a savory dish, ditch the spices altogether!
How Do You Get That Perfectly Smooth Texture?
A smooth mash comes from how you prepare the squash. Roasting it until tender enhances its natural sweetness and flavor. Here’s how:
- Cut the squash carefully to ensure even cooking.
- Roast it cut-side down; this traps steam and makes for an easier mash.
- Use a potato masher for a rustic texture or an immersion blender for creaminess. Warm your milk or cream beforehand for a better blend.
Adjust seasoning to taste and remember to taste as you go. Enjoy crafting your perfect mashed butternut squash! 🍂
How to Make Mashed Butternut Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream (adjust to desired creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 50 minutes to cook, making a total of about 1 hour. Just roast, mash, and season for a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Take a moment to scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
2. Roast the Squash:
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Roast in the oven for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh is very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Scoop and Mash:
Once the squash has cooled slightly, scoop the soft flesh into a large bowl. Now, add the unsalted butter and warm milk or cream to the bowl. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash it all up until you reach your desired smoothness.
4. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste. If you like, sprinkle in the optional cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of flavor! Mix everything well.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your creamy mashed butternut squash to a lovely serving bowl. If you want, you can add a small pat of butter on top for garnish. Serve it warm and enjoy this comforting side dish!
This mashed butternut squash is creamy, naturally sweet, and perfect as a side dish for any meal! Enjoy every bite! 🌟
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works great! Just make sure to thaw it completely before mashing. You can microwave it on a low setting or let it sit in the fridge overnight. If it’s pre-cooked, you might need less time to prepare it.
What If I Don’t Have Unsalted Butter?
No worries! If you only have salted butter, you can use that instead. Just be careful when adding salt to the mash, as the salted butter will add some natural seasoning already.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter, and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy. It will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if necessary.