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Whip up the best way to enjoy squash with our easy mashed butternut squash recipe, a tasty side dish perfect for Thanksgiving dinner and more.

Are you looking for a delightful twist on your usual side dishes? Our Mashed Butternut Squash recipe is here to bring a cozy flavor to your table. This easy recipe transforms the humble butternut squash into the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner or any family meal.

This easy side dish is a great alternative to traditional dishes that are normally on your holiday table. The next time you have a whole butternut squash in your pantry, give this recipe is a great option. Even the picky eater will like the creamy smooth consistency.

overhead view of mashed butternut squash in a bowl with fresh thyme, butter and parmesan

About this Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe:

Flavor: The sweet flavor of roasted butternut squash enhanced with maple syrup, the creaminess of half and half, and the savory touch of parmesan cheese and fresh thyme.
Texture: Ultra smooth and creamy butternut mash. Just like any mashed squash!
Method: Roast butternut squash halves in the oven, then scoop out the squash and mash it with key ingredients.

Ingredients

This butternut squash mash recipe has simple ingredients:

Butternut squash. The size of your squash will matter when it is time to bake the squash. I used two small butternut squash and ended up with 3 cups of mashed squash.
Half and half. Whole milk will work as well, but you want milk that is high in fat so that the mash is creamy.
Maple Syrup. If you’d like, you could use honey or brown sugar, but maple syrup soaks right in and pairs well with the natural sugars in the squash.
Butter. I keep salted butter on hand, but unsalted butter will work as well.
Parmesan cheese. When the mashed squash is warm enough, the salty parmesan cheese will melt right in, adding to the rich creaminess.
Thyme, salt and black pepper. These 3 seasonings work to add flavor but also a pretty garnish to the top for serving.

How to Make Mashed Butternut Squash

Make mashed squash in just 4 steps:

Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out seeds. Throw away any seeds and pulp.

butternut squash cut in half with the seeds scooped out

Place the squash on baking sheet cut side down. Or, you can bake them cut side up, spreading with melted butter and sprinkling with salt and pepper before baking.Bake for 45-55 minutes. Test the thickest part of the squash to make sure it is done.

a baked butternut squash cut in half on a baking sheet

Use a spoon to scoop out the soft squash and place it in a bowl.
Add the remaining ingredients to the mashed squash. Use a potato masher or an electric hand mixer on low speed to mix blend the ingredients together until it has a smooth, velvety texture.

ingredients for mashed butternut squash in a bowl

mashed butternut squash in a glass mixing bowl

Recipe Variations

Brown butter. By browning butter, you add a nutty flavor to the butternut squash mash.
Use the same ingredients except replace the squash with sweet potatoes or your favorite winter squash for a tasty mash.
For those who are vegan or lactose-free, swap in plant-based milk such as coconut milk and cheese alternatives.
Try adding fresh herbs, roasted garlic or crispy bacon bits for a flavor twist.

mashed butternut squash in a black bowl with a spoon

Serving Suggestions

This butternut squash recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s a perfect side dish for meats like roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or pork tenderloin.

For a vegetarian option, it complements dishes like a chickpea pasta salad or roasted vegetable soup.