12 Squash Recipes to Try Before Winter

Squash is a comforting vegetable that offers endless cooking possibilities. It pairs well with a variety of spices and can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. As winter approaches, it is the perfect time to experiment with squash in your kitchen. These recipes will add warmth and flavor to your meals.

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Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

This recipe takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook. Roasted butternut squash soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly winter day. The rich, velvety texture and savory flavors make it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. This soup is both hearty and comforting, featuring the natural sweetness of butternut squash. It is best served as a starter or paired with warm bread for a complete meal.

You will need 1 medium butternut squash, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, 4 cups vegetable broth, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Additional seasonings include salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can enhance the flavor. For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Cut the butternut squash in half, remove the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast the squash, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet for 25 minutes or until tender. Blend the roasted vegetables with vegetable broth until smooth, then heat in a pot and add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

Spaghetti Squash Primavera

Spaghetti squash primavera takes around 30 minutes to prepare. This light yet filling dish combines the mild flavor of spaghetti squash with fresh vegetables, making it a perfect side or main meal. It offers a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Serve it as a quick weeknight dinner or a lunch option for a healthy boost. It is especially satisfying during the cooler months, thanks to the hearty squash and colorful vegetables.

For this dish, you will need 1 medium spaghetti squash, 1 bell pepper, 1 zucchini, 1 onion, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a touch of flavor. Optional: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Cut the spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Roast it at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for 25 minutes. While the squash roasts, saute the vegetables in olive oil until soft. Scrape the squash with a fork to create spaghetti-like strands and toss with sauteed vegetables and Parmesan cheese.

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Preparing stuffed acorn squash will take about 50 minutes. This recipe combines the mild sweetness of acorn squash with savory stuffing made from quinoa or rice, making it a great vegetarian meal option. The squash acts as a natural bowl, adding a rustic charm to the dish. It is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a festive main course for holiday gatherings. The dish is a hearty choice for the colder season and provides a nutritious balance of flavors.

You will need 2 acorn squash, 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice, one-half cup cranberries, one-fourth cup chopped nuts (such as pecans), and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add cinnamon, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Fresh parsley or thyme adds color and flavor. Optional: top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for added richness.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Roast the squash halves for 30 minutes. While the squash roasts, mix quinoa with cranberries, nuts, and seasonings. Stuff the squash with the mixture and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.

Squash and Kale Frittata

This squash and kale frittata is a quick and healthy meal, taking about 30 minutes to prepare. Packed with protein and vegetables, it is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. The earthy squash and kale are balanced with eggs and cheese, creating a flavorful, filling dish. It is best served warm, alongside fresh bread or a simple salad. A great option for using up seasonal squash before winter sets in.

You will need 1 cup diced squash, 2 cups kale, 6 eggs, one-half cup grated Parmesan, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Garlic, salt, and pepper are necessary for seasoning. Optional: add crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Saute the squash and kale in olive oil until tender. Beat the eggs with Parmesan, salt, and pepper, then pour over the vegetables. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes until set and golden on top.

Butternut Squash Risotto

This creamy butternut squash risotto takes about 45 minutes to prepare. It is a perfect dish for dinner, offering both comfort and elegance with the rich flavor of roasted butternut squash. The creamy texture of the risotto, combined with the sweetness of the squash, makes it a delightful and satisfying meal. It is best served as a main dish or paired with a simple green salad. This recipe is an excellent way to use up seasonal squash before winter ends.

You will need 1 small butternut squash, 1 one-half cups Arborio rice, 4 cups vegetable broth, one-half cup grated Parmesan, 1 onion, and 2 tablespoons butter. Olive oil is needed for sauteing, and fresh thyme adds an earthy touch. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optional: add white wine for depth of flavor.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and roast the cubed butternut squash for 25 minutes. In a pot, saute the onion in butter and olive oil until soft. Add the rice and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Gradually add the broth, stirring continuously until the rice is creamy. Stir in the roasted squash, Parmesan, and seasoning before serving.

Winter Squash Casserole

Preparing winter squash casserole will take about 1 hour. This dish combines mashed squash with a crunchy topping, creating a comforting side dish or light main course. It is perfect for holiday meals or as a hearty winter lunch. The creamy filling pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables, making it versatile. This casserole is best enjoyed during the colder months when you want something warm and filling.

You will need 2 cups mashed winter squash (such as butternut or acorn), one-half cup breadcrumbs, one-half cup grated cheese, 1 tablespoon butter, and one-fourth cup milk. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary enhance the flavor. Optional: top with a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Mix the mashed squash with milk, butter, and seasonings. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and cheese. Bake for 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Roasted Garlic Squash

This simple yet delicious roasted garlic squash takes about 40 minutes. The squash, paired with garlic and olive oil, is roasted to perfection, bringing out its natural sweetness. It is best served as a side dish for dinner or a hearty snack. This recipe is easy to prepare and makes for a great addition to any fall or winter meal. Roasted garlic squash is a healthy, flavorful choice before winter arrives.

You will need 2 medium-sized squashes (like acorn or butternut), 6 garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and fresh rosemary. Salt and pepper are necessary for seasoning, and a squeeze of lemon adds brightness. Optional: drizzle with balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Slice the squash into 1-inch pieces and toss with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Roast for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of lemon or balsamic vinegar if desired.

Sweet Potato and Squash Gratin

This sweet potato and squash gratin takes around 1 hour to prepare and bake. A perfect side dish for winter, it combines the rich, earthy flavors of sweet potatoes and squash with a creamy, cheesy topping. This gratin pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main dish. It is ideal for holiday meals or cozy dinners. The dish is a comforting option that takes full advantage of winter squash varieties.

You will need 1 medium butternut squash, 2 sweet potatoes, 1 cup heavy cream, one-half cup grated Gruyere cheese, and 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Fresh thyme or rosemary will enhance the flavor. Optional: sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Peel and slice the squash and sweet potatoes into thin rounds. Layer them in a baking dish, alternating with cheese and seasoning. Pour the cream over the layers, dot with butter, and bake for 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Butter

This baked acorn squash recipe takes around 45 minutes. The natural sweetness of the acorn squash is enhanced by brown sugar and butter, creating a simple yet delicious side dish. It is perfect for holiday gatherings or a warming addition to any meal. The dish is easy to prepare and a great way to make the most of the season’s squash. It is an ideal choice to serve alongside roast meats or as a vegetarian option.

You will need 2 acorn squashes, 4 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and one-half teaspoon cinnamon. Salt and pepper are needed for seasoning. Optional: drizzle with honey for an extra layer of sweetness.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet and fill each with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Roast for 35-40 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Squash and Chickpea Stew

This squash and chickpea stew takes about 1 hour to make. A hearty vegetarian dish, it combines the flavors of winter squash, chickpeas, and warming spices. The stew is filling enough to serve as a main course or can be paired with rice or bread. It is perfect for a chilly evening, offering a comforting and nutritious meal. This stew is a great way to enjoy squash before the colder months end.

You will need 2 cups of cubed squash, 1 can of chickpeas, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Add cumin, paprika, salt, pepper to taste, and peanuts (optional). Fresh cilantro adds a fresh touch to the finished dish.

In a large pot, saute the onion and garlic until softened. Add the squash, chickpeas, tomatoes, and vegetable broth, then bring to a simmer. Let the stew cook for 30-40 minutes until the squash is tender. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Squash and Black Bean Chili

This squash and black bean chili takes about 1 hour to make. It is a hearty and filling meal, perfect for a cozy winter dinner. The combination of tender squash, black beans, and warming spices creates a flavorful dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. This chili is ideal for lunch or dinner, especially when served with cornbread. It is an easy-to-make dish that uses seasonal squash before winter fully sets in.

You will need 1 medium squash (such as butternut), 1 can black beans, 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 can diced tomatoes, and chili powder. Add vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to taste. Optional: top with sour cream or shredded cheese for extra flavor.

In a large pot, saute the onion and garlic until soft. Add the squash, tomatoes, and black beans, along with the vegetable broth and chili powder. Let the chili simmer for 30-40 minutes until the squash is tender. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with optional toppings.

Squash and Mushroom Stir-Fry

This squash and mushroom stir-fry takes around 30 minutes to prepare. It is a quick, flavorful dish that pairs well with rice or as a side for dinner. The combination of tender squash and savory mushrooms creates a balanced, satisfying meal. It is a healthy, low-fat dish that captures the earthy flavors of fall. The stir-fry is an easy way to incorporate seasonal squash into your meals before the winter sets in.

You will need 1 medium squash, 2 cups mushrooms, 1 onion, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add garlic, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Optional: add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet and saute the onion and garlic until soft. Add the squash and mushrooms, cooking for 10-15 minutes until tender. Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot with rice or as a side dish.

Squash is not only delicious but also a great way to stay healthy during the winter months. Its versatility makes it perfect for a range of dishes, from comforting soups to flavorful casseroles. Try them out and add a little warmth to your meals before winter ends.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.