A delicious and nutritious alternative to mashed potatoes that is just as creamy and flavorful!
Butternut squash is always a fall favorite, but I tend to enjoy it year-round. Its bright orange color, slightly sweet, nutty flavor, and velvety smooth texture make it a standout vegetable on any plate, whether it’s roasted, grilled, mashed, or boiled.
This gourd goes perfectly in salads, stews, curries, or just served solo with a protein and a few leafy greens. I’m always looking to pack as much fruit and vegetable variety into my diet as possible, and butternut squash is a firm favorite. It can be effortlessly swapped in for sweet potatoes, white potatoes, rice, carrots, parsnips, and more, bringing a touch of all-natural sweetness and creaminess to any meal.
Best of all, this mashed butternut squash recipe is suitable for a range of diets. Gluten-free? Check. Vegetarian? Absolutely. Vegan? Just swap the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives, and you’re golden. Comfort food doesn’t get much simpler—or tastier—than this!
This dish is cozy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re team meal-prep or a last-minute dinner dynamo, it’s a dish that pairs well with just about anything.
Is Mashed Butternut Squash Healthy?
This recipe isn’t just easy on the taste buds, it’s good for you, too! Butternut squash is a good source of vitamins A and C. It’s also high in fiber, which helps you feel satisfied and full without weighing you down.
Looking to make this mashed butternut squash even healthier? Sub the butter with a drizzle of extra olive oil, or skip it entirely for a lighter version. Swap the milk for unsweetened almond milk and the butter for your favorite dairy-free alternative to make it vegan-friendly and lower in calories.
Do I Have To Roast Before Mashing?
Roasting butternut squash before mashing may seem like an unnecessary step, but it’s actually quite an important one. By caramelizing the squash in the oven, you coax out its natural sweetness and develop a subtle nuttiness that’s downright irresistible. It’s a flavor upgrade that you just can’t achieve by boiling or steaming.
But that’s not all; roasting also ensures your mash isn’t watery or bland. The high heat draws out excess moisture, leaving you with a beautifully concentrated flavor and perfect texture. Trust me, this step is non-negotiable if you’re chasing that sweet, buttery, restaurant-worthy mash.
How To Make Ahead And Store
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the texture if needed. For longer storage, freeze leftover mash in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the butternut squash alongside hearty proteins like this Air-Fryer Chicken Breast or Steak With Garlic Butter Mushrooms. If you’d prefer surf over turf, this mash would pair perfectly with Grilled Lobster Tail or Baked Salmon. And, while the oven is on, it’ll be so easy to whip up some Oven-Roasted Vegetables for extra colors on the plate. This humble side dish is versatile enough to be paired with practically any protein!
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (roughly 3 pounds) peeled, deseeded, and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened at room temperature
- 1/4 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash in the oven for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the cubes are fork-tender and lightly browned but not burnt.
- Transfer the roasted squash to a large bowl, add the softened butter, and mash with a potato masher, ricer, or fork until smooth. Gradually add milk and mix well until the mash reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh herbs if using, and serve warm.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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