Creamy Maple Parmesan Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe

Introduction

Mashed butternut squash is a creamy, flavorful side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With a touch of maple syrup and Parmesan cheese, it offers a subtle sweetness balanced by savory notes. This easy recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and holiday feasts alike.

Ingredients

• 2 small whole butternut squash
• 1/4 cup half and half (warmed)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly snipped thyme
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon. Discard the seeds and pulp.
3. Step 3: Place the squash halves on the baking sheet cut side down, or cut side up if you prefer. If baking cut side up, spread with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper before baking. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the thickest part is tender when tested with a fork.
4. Step 4: Scoop the soft squash flesh into a large mixing bowl using a spoon.
5. Step 5: Add the warm half and half, maple syrup, melted butter, and grated Parmesan to the squash. Mash with a potato masher or blend with a hand mixer on low speed until smooth and velvety.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh thyme, additional salt and pepper, a little butter, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try substituting heavy cream for half and half.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to enhance the natural sweetness.
• Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
• Mix in roasted garlic for an extra depth of flavor.

Storage

Store mashed butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of half and half or butter to restore creaminess as it warms.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare mashed butternut squash ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving and stir in a bit of cream or butter to refresh the texture.

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Frozen butternut squash can be used in a pinch, but fresh squash gives the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

Creamy Maple Parmesan Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 67 reviews

• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy mashed butternut squash recipe offers a flavorful twist on traditional mashed vegetables, combining the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the richness of butter, maple syrup, and parmesan cheese. Lightly seasoned and garnished with fresh thyme, this dish makes a perfect side for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Butternut Squash

• 2 small whole butternut squash

Mix-ins

• 1/4 cup half and half (warmed)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Freshly snipped thyme (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400ºF (204ºC) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Squash: Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp, discarding them.
3. Bake Squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on the baking sheet (or cut side up if preferred) and optionally spread with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper before baking. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the thickest part of the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
4. Scoop Flesh: Use a spoon to scoop out the soft, cooked squash flesh from the skins into a large mixing bowl.
5. Mash and Mix: Add warmed half and half, maple syrup, melted butter, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Use a potato masher or an electric hand mixer on low speed to mash and blend until smooth and velvety in texture.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly snipped thyme, additional salt and pepper, a little butter, and extra parmesan cheese if desired before serving warm.

Notes

• Butternut squash can be baked cut side up or cut side down; baking cut side up allows better caramelization when brushed with butter.
• For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of half and half if preferred.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter and omit parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mashed butternut squash, creamy squash mash, roasted squash side dish, fall vegetable recipes, parmesan squash mash