Are you looking to make a heartwarming, comforting side dish that will become a staple at your holiday table? Butternut squash mashed is not only delicious, it's also easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to any festive meal or everyday dinner. In this post, we'll walk through a simple butternut squash mashed recipe that brings out the sweet and creamy flavors of this versatile vegetable. Let's dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash (approximately 3-4 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1⁄4 cup heavy cream
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the butternut squash in half, length-wise.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits.
Step 2: Roasting the Squash
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Place the squash cut-side down on the baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the flesh is tender when poked with a fork.
Step 3: Scooping and Mashing
After roasting:
- Let the squash cool until it’s easy to handle.
- Scoop out the flesh into a large bowl.
- Mash the squash using a potato masher or fork, or for a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender or food processor.
Step 4: Mixing and Flavoring
Now, it’s time to add flavor:
- Stir in the butter until it melts completely into the squash.
- Add the heavy cream gradually, while continuously mixing, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re after a seasonal flavor.
Step 5: Serving
Once you have a creamy, smooth mash, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your butternut squash mashed warm.
📍 Note: You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little more cream if it dries out.
Variations
Here are some variations to keep your butternut squash mashed interesting:
- Add brown butter for a nutty flavor.
- Include roasted garlic for a deeper taste profile.
- Mix in maple syrup for sweetness.
- Top with chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic finish.
Pairing Suggestions
Butternut squash mashed pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled or roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork.
- Fish dishes, adding a warm, comforting element.
- As a side to vegetarian options, enhancing the flavor of dishes like stuffed peppers or mushroom risotto.
Wrapping Up
In summary, this butternut squash mashed recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s straightforward to make, requires minimal ingredients, and brings out the best in the flavors of butternut squash. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a dinner party, or just a cozy family meal, this dish will be a hit. Remember, you can customize it with various flavors to suit your taste or the occasion, ensuring it’s never just another side dish on the table.
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
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Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. However, make sure it’s thawed and drained of any excess moisture before roasting or mashing to achieve the best texture.
How can I make this dish vegan?
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Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a non-dairy cream or milk in place of heavy cream.
What do I do if my mash is too watery?
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If the mash turns out too watery, try cooking it a bit longer on the stove to evaporate some of the excess moisture, or add a thickening agent like mashed potatoes or cornstarch.
