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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400ºF (204ºC) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Squash: Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp, discarding them.
- 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.
- Scoop Flesh: Use a spoon to scoop out the soft, cooked squash flesh from the skins into a large mixing bowl.
- 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.
- 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
