20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (2024)

We've reached that time of the year when summer flirts with fall, which got us thinking about the plethora of autumn superfoods. Pumpkin may get all the fame, but butternut squash knows what she brings to the table and isn't afraid to eat alone. High in hunger-taming fiber, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids—but low in calories—the gourd has demonstrated fat-burning, belly-shrinking properties. We've rounded up our favorite butternut squash recipes that are certain to get you inspired, please your taste buds, and nourish your body.

RELATED: 150+ recipe ideas that get you lean for life.

PARMESAN BUTTERNUT SQUASH FRIES

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (1)

Nutrition: 107 calories, 3.6 g fat (1.1 g saturated), 70.8 mg sodium, 18 g carbs, 2.3 g fiber, 3.4 g sugar, 3.2 g protein

Fries don't have to be drenched in oil and deep-fried to be delicious. This butternut squash recipe requires just a tablespoon of olive oil, seasoning, parmesan cheese, and an oven. At just 107 calories per serving, these sweet and savory fries will have your completely smitten.

Get the recipe from Damn Delicious.

STUFFED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (2)

Nutrition: 298 calories, 6.2 g fat (3.5 g saturated), 333 mg sodium, 51.2 g carbs, 8.6 g fiber, 4.7 g sugar, 12.6 g protein

Take a break from Taco Tuesday with this Mexican-inspired recipe instead. Rice, black beans, corn, and spicy seasonings are tossed together, stuffed inside a butternut squash, and topped with salsa, guac, and cheddar cheese. We suggest going light on the cheese and heavier on the green stuff. After all, it's made from one of the few foods that can aid in rapid weight loss, lower blood pressure, spot reduce stomach fat, banish bloat, and quell hunger pangs.

Get the recipe from Our Life Tastes Good.

SLOW COOKER BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (3)

Nutrition: 122 calories, 4.9 g fat (4.2 g saturated), 145 mg sodium, 20.6 g carbs, 3.7 g fiber, 7.5 g sugar, 2 g protein

Aside from its wicked low calorie count, this soup will literally fry flab and scorch calories, thanks to capsaicin—the compound that gives cayenne its steamy-hot sensation, which increases thermogenesis and blasts fat. Better yet, studies suggest consuming a cup of soup before a meal causes you to eat less.

Get the recipe from Gimmie Some Oven.

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH QUINOA SALAD

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (4)

Nutrition: 262 calories, 13.8 g fat (3.4 g saturated), 170 mg sodium, 28.7 g carbs, 4 g fiber, 2.5 g sugar, 7.3 g protein

Not only is quinoa the only grain that contains all nine essential amino acids–making it a complete protein–but it's also particularly rich in minerals like manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium and naturally gluten-free. According to a 2013 survey, approximately a third of America is trying to avoid gluten. The problem is most GF-deemed products contain fattening fillers that can lead to an expanding waistline. Fortunately, this quinoa bowl isn't one of them!

Get the recipe from One Sweet Mess.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND SPINACH LASAGNA

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (5)

Nutrition: 303 calories, 9.2 g fat (5.1 g saturated), 238 mg sodium, 36.1 g carbs, 1.1 g fiber, 2.2 g sugar, 19.6 g protein

No matter how you slice it, lasagna is an indulgent meal. Unfortunately, its ingredients usually start as a savory treat but end in a belly bulge. This is one of the lighter butternut squash recipes thanks to the layering of potassium-rich spinach and squash between noodles. And with 19.6 grams of protein per slice, you'll be too satisfied to ask for seconds.

Get the recipe from Julia's Album.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH PASTA SAUCE

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (6)

Nutrition: 87 calories, 2.5 g fat (1.6 g saturated), 134 mg sodium, 11.2 g carbs, 1.5 g fiber, 3.9 g sugar, 6 g protein (calculated with non-fat milk and on salt)

Move over tomato sauce–we've found an upgrade. And it's just in time for fall! Serve it over a whole wheat penne, spiralized noodles, or spaghetti squash with chicken meatballs for a balanced, wholesome meal.

Get the recipe from Creme De La Crumb.

HONEY ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH WITH CRANBERRIES AND FETA

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (7)

Nutrition: 120 calories, 3.8 g fat (1.3 g saturated), 101 mg sodium, 20.3 g carbs, 3.2 g fiber, 9.4 g sugar, 1.8 g protein

Before you reach for fat-free feta, keep in mind that you may not necessarily be doing your waistlines any favors. In fact, a 2013 European Journal of Nutrition research review revealed that 11 of 16 studies found that participants who consumed more high-fat dairy products either weighed less or gained less weight over time than their counterparts who didn't consume fat-laden dairy. This is most likely because the fat-free stuff isn't as satisfying, resulting in you eating more.

Get the recipe from Peas and Crayons.

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH HUMMUS

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (8)

Nutrition: 104 calories, 3.7 g fat (0 g saturated), 14.3 g carbs, 4 g fiber, 2.5 g sugar, 4.4 g protein

According to a study published in the journal Obesity, people who consumed a single daily serving of chickpeas reported feeling 31 percent fuller than those who did not—and in case you weren't aware, hummus is the result of the pureed bean. The magic bullets are one of the best high-fiber foods, lowering LDL-cholesterol levels, promoting healthy-gut bacteria, and preventing cellulite, thanks to their lysine content. That's enough to get us dipping!

Get the recipe from The Healthy Maven.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH BROWNIES

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (9)

Nutrition: 167 calories, 6.4 g fat (3.9 g saturated), 38 mg sodium, 23.9 g carbs, 1.1 g fiber, 12.9 g sugar, 3.5 g protein

Looking for an absolute genius way to sneak more veggies into your kiddo's diet? These brownies are it. And unlike most prepackaged baked goods, they don't contain artificial sweeteners. Instead, they're sweetened with antioxidant-rich maple syrup. They're so good that your family will never guess they're knocking out their daily dose of vitamin A.

Get the recipe from Meals Our Kids Love.

PALEO CINNAMON SWIRL BUTTERNUT SQUASH MINI LOAVES

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (10)

Nutrition: 246 calories, 4 g fat (1.3 g saturated), 584 mg sodium, 46 g carbs, 5 g fiber, 12.3 g sugar, 6.7 g protein

Our ancestors, who were hunter and gatherers, didn't have the ability to bake bread. However, the Paleo diet has gone through a bit of a transformation in the modern day. With wholesome, caveman-approved ingredients, these mini loaves are both gluten and dairy-free (a staple of the Paleo diet) and make the perfect gift seasonal gift!

Get the recipe from The Healthy GF Life.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH PIZZA CRUST

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (11)

Nutrition: 122 calories, 6.9 g fat (5.9 g saturated), 64 mg sodium, 16.4 g carbs, 2.8 g fiber, 3.1 g sugar, 1.4 g protein

Are you gluten-free or simply looking to nix empty calories? This pizza crust contains three simple ingredients: butternut squash, coconut oil, and sea salt. It's low calorie, low carb, and it won't leave you with stomach rolls.

Get the recipe from Empowered .

KALE AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH BREAKFAST BOWL

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (12)

Nutrition: 267 calories, 17.8 g fat (6.4 g saturated), 71 mg sodium, 23.2 g carbs, 7 g fiber, 4.4 g sugar, 8.2 g protein

You had us at kale and breakfast bowl, but butternut squash sealed the deal. And while you might be tempted to ditch the yolk, don't. Despite years of bad publicity, it actually packs in a mighty nutritional punch. Yolks contain choline, a vital nutrient responsible for the structure of cell membranes, protecting our livers from accumulating fat. Bonus: It builds healthy neurotransmitters in the brain!

Get the recipe from The Organic Dietitian.

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH PIE WITH BROWN SUGAR MARSHMALLOW TOPPING

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (13)

Nutrition: 267 calories, 9.7 g fat (2.9 g saturated), 134 mg sodium, 48.1 g carbs, 2 g fiber, 26 g sugar, 4.5 g protein (calculated with light brown sugar only)

Pumpkin pie may be a Thanksgiving staple, but this marshmallow topped butternut squash version also deserves a spot at the table.

Get the recipe from Keep It Sweet Desserts.

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH KALE AND CRANBERRY COUSCOUS

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (14)

Nutrition: 269 calories, 12.3 g fat (3.3 g saturated), 47 mg sodium, 31.6 g carbs, 3.4 g fiber, 1.5 g sugar, 9.4 g protein

Sometimes, pasta can be a bore. Couscous is a great alternative. It's made from crushed durum wheat and, in this refreshing recipe, it pairs flawlessly with dried cranberries, butternut squash, and the super-green kale. Kale contains folate, which plays a key role in DNA synthesis and repair and has more calcium, gram for gram, than a cup of milk.

Get the recipe from Gimme Some Oven.

MEATLOAF CUPCAKES WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH PUREE

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (15)

Nutrition: 286 calories, 13.8 g fat (1.1 g saturated), 207 mg sodium, 31.5 g carbs, 12 g fiber, 5.9 g sugar, 13.2 g protein

Cupcakes for dinner can be a thing—assuming they're made with whole foods and not white flour and sugar. This version contains a vegan meatloaf that's made with lentils, chickpeas, nuts, and veggies. They're then topped with pureed butternut squash to make a charming autumn app.

Get the recipe from My Darling Vegan.

WHOLE WHEAT BUTTERNUT SQUASH WAFFLES

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (16)

Nutrition: 293 calories, 12.2 g fat (8.4 g saturated), 264 mg sodium, 42.2 g carbs, 5 g fiber, 9.9 g sugar, 7.7 g protein

If you've got a love affair with fast cardio, we've got the perfect post-workout meal for you. For starters, it's just shy of 300 calories, so it won't undo 45-60 minutes of hard work. And with 42.2 grams of carbs and 7.7 grams of protein, it will completely replenish depleted glycogen stores and encourage muscle synthesis. More importantly, the properly portioned dream team prevents your body from metabolizing muscle tissue for energy.

Get the recipe from Kara Lydon.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND CRISPY SAGE PIZZA

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (17)

Nutrition: 407 calories, 4.3 g fat (1.6 g saturated), 37 mg sodium, 78.2 g carbs, 4 g fiber, 1.3 g sugar, 12.7 g protein (calculated with one tablespoon of olive oil and no salt)

Squash probably isn't the first ingredient that comes to mind when you're ordering pizza toppings or even an option, but we guarantee this pair will blow your mind. Sage is an herb straight out of the Mediterranean and it's bursting with essential minerals and vitamins, particularly riboflavin, a B vitamin that plays a key role in metabolism.

Get the recipe from Alexandra Cooks.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH PASTA

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (18)

Nutrition: 246 calories, 18.9 g fat (2.7 g saturated), 10 mg sodium, 22.1 g carbs, 3.9 g fiber, 4.2 g sugar, 2 g protein

Zoodles and now boodles? Slicing and dicing are a thing of the past. Spiral-shaped food is just more fun! And it's better for you. With one simple tool, you can boost the nutritional profile, lower carb counts, aid weight loss, ditch gluten, and/or veganize any meal. With just 246 calories per bowl, this one's definitely one of our go-to butternut squash recipes!

Get the recipe from B. Britnell.

BUTTERNUT TOTS WITH SPICY MAPLE MUSTARD

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (19)

Nutrition: 204 calories, 5 g fat (<1 g saturated), 282 mg sodium, 36.5 g fiber, 9.5 g sugar, 5.8 g protein

Ever come across a person who doesn't dig tots? Nope, we haven't either. This fall spin puts the typical potato to shame. Potassium-boasting butternut squash, heart-healthy olive oil, fat-blasting sriracha, metabolism revving paprika, antibacterial garlic, and fibrous chickpeas create a waistline-friendly, crowd pleaser.

Get the recipe from Connisseurus Veg.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH CHILI

20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (20)

Nutrition: 314 calories, 15.9 g fat (2.5 g saturated), 133 mg sodium, 20.6 g carbs, 4.3 g fiber, 5.5 g sugar, 27.8 g protein

As evening temperatures drop, there's nothing like a bowl of steaming chili that's brimming with muscle-building, satiating protein. Better yet, for every 100 calories of protein you ingest, 25 to 30 of those calories are burned during digestion! With protein being the overwhelming macronutrient in this recipe, it's sure to scorch calories, keep you fuller longer and aid your fitness goals.

Get the recipe from Chew Out Loud.

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20 Healthy Butternut Squash Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What are 3 ways you can eat butternut squash? ›

7 ways to cook with butternut squash
  • Butternut squash soup. ...
  • Spicy squash and spinach soup. ...
  • Roasted butternut squash. ...
  • Butternut squash laksa. ...
  • Moroccan-spiced tomato sauce with roast vegetables and chickpeas. ...
  • Beef and butternut squash moussaka. ...
  • Chilled toffee apple creams.

Is butternut squash healthy for losing weight? ›

One cup of cooked butternut squash has only 83 calories and provides 7 grams of filling fiber — making it an excellent choice to lose excess weight and body fat. It contains both insoluble and soluble fiber. Soluble fiber has been associated with fat loss and decreased appetite.

What happens to your body when you eat butternut squash regularly? ›

Research shows that butternut squash can help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, in particular. It can help your blood pressure. Butternut squash is high in potassium, which can help keep your blood pressure in check. Managing your blood pressure can reduce your risk for stroke and heart disease.

What is the healthiest way to eat squash? ›

You can bake or roast it in your oven and top it off with either savory or sweet seasonings. Cinnamon can add sweetness to acorn squash while still being nutritious – or even dessert. You can even eat the skin for added fiber.

Can you eat too much butternut squash? ›

When taken by mouth: Butternut is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people, but it can cause diarrhea and irritation of the stomach and intestines. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It's LIKELY UNSAFE to use butternut in large amounts if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. It might stimulate the bowels too much.

Who should not eat butternut squash? ›

Butternut squash is a healthful option, but its high potassium content may mean that some people should consume it in moderation. Beta-blockers are a type of medication commonly prescribed for people with heart disease. These can cause potassium levels to increase in the blood.

Is butternut squash a good or bad carb? ›

Butternut squash is a low-calorie food and is packed with nutrients. While it's higher in carbs than some other veggies, its low glycemic index (a ranking of how carbs affect blood sugar) still makes it a healthy choice for most people.

Is butternut squash a carb or protein? ›

Summary. Butternut squash is a low-fat, lower-calorie source of carbohydrates with plenty of filling fiber. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamin A and C and contains thiamin, niacin, and folate.

Is Sweet Potato or butternut squash healthier? ›

To begin with, the butternut squash beats the sweet potato with fewer calories, carbs and sugar per serving. Moreover, it is rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B6 and E. On the other hand, the sweet potato, however, provides more fiber and protein.

Is butternut squash a laxative? ›

Supports healthy digestion: The fiber in butternut squash helps maintain a healthy digestive system, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.

Is butternut squash a carb or vegetable? ›

Winter squash: Winter squash, including butternut squash and acorn squash, is a starchy vegetable that is high in carbs. One cup of cooked butternut squash contains around 21 grams of carbs, while one cup of cooked acorn squash contains around 15 grams.

Are squash healthier than potatoes? ›

Exhibit B: While both are high in B vitamins, the squash is higher in folate, a must in the diets future and soon-to-be mamas, as well as mega-antioxidant vitamin E, and bone-building calcium. However, the squash must concede when it comes to fiber content, with the sweet potato taking first place (4 grams vs.

Does squash reduce belly fat? ›

Well, yes. Squash offers a rigorous workout regimen that can help you to burn fat, lose weight, and improve your health. Plus, this game is excellent for increasing blood circulation and maintaining healthy muscles and joints.

Does squash detox your body? ›

Foods to Support a Natural Detox

Butternut Squash: Butternut squash is a good source of vitamin C and an excellent source of vitamin A. These vitamins support your immune system by fighting off invading bacteria and viruses.

How is butternut eaten? ›

Raw butternut squash is carrot-like and holds up well in crunchy salads and slaws. If opting for raw squash over cooked squash, start by peeling away the tough outer skin (FYI, you can eat the skin when it's cooked. It's full of fiber and completely edible when softened up a bit).

What is the best way to can butternut squash? ›

Caution: do not mash or puree!

To can pumpkin or squash: Cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes. Boil the cubes in water for 2 minutes. Fill the jars with cubes and cooking liquid, leaving 1-inch of headspace.

Is butternut squash better cooked or raw? ›

First of all, neither one is typically eaten raw. Cooking makes the nutrients easier to absorb and the squash easier to chew and swallow. The principal difference is that a butternut is starchier than an acorn. This makes it smoother in texture, which gives it more versatility in how it is cooked or served.

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