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Butternut squash puree is one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep in your kitchen.
If you’ve ever wondered what to make with butternut squash puree, you’re in for a treat because this silky orange blend works in everything from soups to desserts.
It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and packed with vitamins, which makes it a fantastic base for both savory and sweet recipes.
Whether you roasted a squash yourself or grabbed a can from the store, there are endless ways to use butternut squash puree.
In this post, we’ll explore the best things to make with butternut squash puree, plus tips to help you use it like a pro.
Let’s dive in.
What to Make With Butternut Squash Puree: Savory Ideas
When you’re figuring out what to make with butternut squash puree, savory dishes are a great place to start.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash puree pairs beautifully with garlic, herbs, and spices.
Here are some savory options worth trying.
1. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Soup is probably the most popular thing to make with butternut squash puree.
Just sauté some onions and garlic, add a few cups of broth, then stir in your butternut squash puree.
Blend it smooth, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, and you’ve got a cozy bowl of comfort in minutes.
You can also swirl in cream or coconut milk to make it extra rich.
2. Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce
If you want a creamy pasta sauce without the heaviness of dairy, butternut squash puree is your answer.
Warm the puree with garlic, sage, and a splash of olive oil, then toss it with pasta and a little pasta water.
The result is a velvety sauce that clings to every noodle.
Top it with parmesan and toasted walnuts for a restaurant-quality meal.
3. Savory Butternut Squash Risotto
Risotto lovers, this one’s for you.
Stir butternut squash puree into your risotto during the last few minutes of cooking.
It adds creaminess and a gorgeous golden color without any extra effort.
Finish with fresh thyme and a handful of grated cheese, and you’ll wonder why you never made it this way before.
4. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Here’s a sneaky way to sneak veggies into a family favorite.
Whisk butternut squash puree into your cheese sauce for mac and cheese.
It boosts the nutrition and gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture.
Most kids won’t even notice, and honestly, most adults won’t either.
Sweet Recipes Using Butternut Squash Puree
Now let’s talk about the sweeter side of what to make with butternut squash puree.
Because of its natural sugars, butternut squash puree works beautifully in baked goods and desserts.
It keeps cakes and muffins moist while adding a subtle warmth.
1. Butternut Squash Muffins
Muffins are a simple and delicious way to use butternut squash puree.
Swap the pumpkin in your favorite pumpkin muffin recipe for butternut squash puree and you’re done.
Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and a handful of chocolate chips for a breakfast treat everyone will love.
2. Butternut Squash Pancakes
Fluffy pancakes get an upgrade with butternut squash puree.
Just fold a half cup into your pancake batter along with some cinnamon and vanilla.
They come out tender, lightly sweet, and perfect with a drizzle of maple syrup.
3. Butternut Squash Bread
Think banana bread, but with butternut squash puree instead.
This quick bread is moist, spiced, and ideal with a cup of coffee.
You can even toast the slices and spread them with cream cheese for a next-level snack.
4. Butternut Squash Brownies
Yes, brownies.
Butternut squash puree adds fudgy moisture and lets you cut back on some of the oil or butter.
The flavor blends right in with the chocolate, so nobody will guess your secret ingredient.
Other Clever Ways to Use Butternut Squash Puree
Beyond soups and baked goods, there are plenty of other things to make with butternut squash puree.
You can stir it into chili for extra body and sweetness.
Add a spoonful to your morning oatmeal or yogurt bowl.
Blend it into smoothies for a creamy texture and a nutrient boost.
You can even use butternut squash puree as a baby food, since it’s mild and easy to digest.
The options really are endless once you start experimenting.
Tips for Cooking With Butternut Squash Puree
Before you run off to the kitchen, here are a few quick tips.
Use puree that’s unsweetened and unseasoned, especially for savory dishes and baked goods.
If you’re making your own, roast the squash first, then blend it until completely smooth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze portions for later.
And remember, a little goes a long way when you’re swapping it into recipes.
So, What to Make With Butternut Squash Puree?
What to make with butternut squash puree really comes down to how adventurous you want to get.
You can go savory with soups, pasta sauces, and risotto, or sweet with muffins, pancakes, and brownies.
It’s one of those ingredients that works in almost anything, which makes it a smart staple to keep on hand.
Hopefully this post has given you plenty of ideas for what to make with butternut squash puree, so you can put that jar or can to good use.
Enjoy every last spoonful.