Butternut squash is a fall favorite — its naturally sweet, nutty flavor and velvety texture make it a superstar ingredient in vegan cooking. Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a seasoned vegan foodie, these best vegan butternut squash recipes will inspire your kitchen adventures.
From comforting soups to hearty mains and even creative salads, butternut squash brings warmth, depth, and a touch of sweetness to every dish.
Not only is butternut squash delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, making it a wholesome addition to your meals. In this post, you’ll find a variety of recipes that showcase the versatility of butternut squash in vegan cuisine.
So grab your cutting board and get ready to savor some of the best plant-based butternut squash dishes around!
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Butternut Squash Recipes
These recipes are designed to be simple, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Butternut squash acts as a wonderful base ingredient that’s naturally sweet and creamy without needing any dairy.
They are perfect for cozy fall dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions.
Health-conscious cooks will appreciate the nutrient density while busy home chefs can enjoy how easy these recipes come together. Plus, with options ranging from soups and stews to pasta dishes and salads, there’s something for everyone.
Each recipe highlights the natural sweetness and texture of butternut squash, combined with fresh herbs, warming spices, and hearty plant-based proteins. You’ll find inspiration to make butternut squash a staple ingredient in your vegan kitchen!
Ingredients
- Butternut squash: peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)
- Olive oil: 2-3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups
- Coconut milk: 1 cup (for creamy soups and sauces)
- Fresh herbs: sage, thyme, rosemary (1-2 teaspoons each, chopped)
- Spices: ground cumin, smoked paprika, nutmeg, cinnamon (to taste)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Maple syrup or agave nectar: 1 tablespoon (optional, to enhance sweetness)
- Chickpeas or lentils: 1 cup cooked (for added protein)
- Spinach or kale: 2 cups, chopped (optional for greens)
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (for brightness)
- Nutritious toppings: pumpkin seeds, toasted nuts, fresh parsley
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Blender or immersion blender
- Baking sheet (for roasting)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Instructions
Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
- Prepare the squash: Peel, seed, and cube about 4 cups of butternut squash.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add squash and spices: Stir in the cubed squash, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Blend until smooth: Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend until creamy and smooth.
- Add coconut milk: Stir in 1 cup of coconut milk and season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional). Heat gently without boiling.
- Finish and serve: Stir in freshly chopped sage or thyme and a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Chickpea Bowl
- Preheat oven: to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare ingredients: Toss 4 cups cubed butternut squash and 1 can drained chickpeas with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Roast: Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until squash is tender and chickpeas are slightly crispy.
- Prepare greens: While roasting, sauté 2 cups chopped kale or spinach with a little olive oil and garlic until wilted.
- Assemble bowls: Divide roasted squash and chickpeas over cooked grains like quinoa or rice. Top with sautéed greens and a drizzle of tahini or lemon vinaigrette.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toasted nuts or seeds.
Butternut Squash Vegan Pasta Sauce
- Roast squash: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss 3 cups cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil and roast for 25 minutes until tender.
- Sauté aromatics: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until soft.
- Blend sauce: Transfer roasted squash, sautéed onion and garlic, 1/2 cup vegetable broth, 1/2 cup coconut milk, 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Heat sauce: Pour sauce back into the pan and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Toss with cooked pasta of your choice and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Tips & Variations
“Roasting your butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness and creates a richer flavor profile for soups and sauces.”
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to any recipe for a little heat.
- Swap coconut milk: Use oat milk or cashew cream for a different creamy texture.
- Add protein: Incorporate cooked lentils, tofu cubes, or tempeh to make meals more filling.
- Use fresh herbs: Rosemary and sage are perfect with butternut squash, but experiment with thyme, oregano, or coriander.
- Meal prep: Soups and roasted squash bowls keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup soup) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Protein | 3g |
Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 22g |
Fiber | 5g |
Vitamin A | 270% DV |
Vitamin C | 30% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan butternut squash recipes pair wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or garlic naan for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Try topping your soup or bowls with crunchy pumpkin seeds, toasted walnuts, or a drizzle of chili oil for added texture and flavor. For pasta dishes, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan adds a cheesy depth.
Looking for more plant-based inspiration? Check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for hearty vegan meals, or try the fluffy vegan bread in our Marzipan Challah Recipe for a perfect side.
Conclusion
Vegan butternut squash recipes are a must-have for anyone seeking nourishing, flavorful, and versatile meals. The natural sweetness and creamy texture of butternut squash make it an ideal ingredient for soups, sauces, and hearty bowls.
Its compatibility with warming spices and fresh herbs allows you to tailor recipes to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
By incorporating these recipes into your routine, you can enjoy comforting, wholesome meals that celebrate seasonal produce and plant-based goodness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these vegan butternut squash dishes are sure to impress and satisfy.
Don’t forget to explore more creative vegan recipes like our Julie Marie Eats Recipes or the fun and easy Magic Dough Recipe to keep your kitchen vibrant and exciting!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
Description: A creamy and comforting vegan butternut squash soup perfect for any season. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 25 minutes.
- In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add roasted squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and cinnamon; bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, then blend until smooth.
- Stir in coconut milk, adjust seasoning, and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 28 g
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