butternut squah recipes vegan Butternut Squash Recipes Vegan: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Butternut squash is a true autumn favorite that lends itself beautifully to vegan cooking. Its naturally sweet, nutty flavor combined with a creamy texture makes it a versatile ingredient for hearty, comforting dishes.

Whether roasted, pureed, or sautéed, butternut squash can elevate your vegan meals with nutrient-packed goodness and satisfying flavors. In this post, we’ll explore some delicious vegan butternut squash recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

From warming soups to savory bowls and flavorful sides, these dishes showcase the best of this vibrant vegetable while keeping things plant-based and wholesome.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, these recipes will inspire you to make the most of butternut squash all year round. Plus, you’ll find tips on ingredients, equipment, and serving suggestions to help you create perfect meals every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. These vegan recipes highlight its natural sweetness while incorporating spices and herbs that complement its flavor beautifully.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how adaptable it is to different cuisines and cooking methods.

Each recipe is designed to be wholesome and satisfying, making them perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Plus, they’re all 100% plant-based, making them suitable for vegans and anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or sage for garnish
  • Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds, nutritional yeast, or vegan sour cream

Equipment

  • Sharp chef’s knife for peeling and chopping squash
  • Cutting board
  • Large pot or Dutch oven for soup and simmering
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Blender or immersion blender for pureeing the soup
  • Baking sheet for roasting butternut squash (if roasting)
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the butternut squash: Peel the squash carefully using a vegetable peeler, then cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard or roast them for a snack. Chop the flesh into roughly 1-inch cubes.
  2. Roast the squash (optional but recommended): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and caramelized. This step enhances the natural sweetness and flavor.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add spices: Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their aroma.
  5. Add roasted or raw squash and broth: If you roasted the squash, add it to the pot now. If not, add the raw cubed squash directly. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the squash is very tender.
  6. Blend the soup: Remove the pot from heat and carefully blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Return to the pot.
  7. Add coconut milk and season: Stir in the coconut milk and heat gently without boiling. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and your choice of toppings such as toasted pumpkin seeds or vegan sour cream.

Tips & Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.

Try adding other root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for an even heartier soup.

To make a butternut squash curry, add curry powder and coconut milk, then serve over rice or quinoa.

You can also use roasted butternut squash in salads, grain bowls, or even mashed as a side dish. For a fun twist, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food which incorporates roasted squash beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per 1 cup serving
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 24 g
Fiber 5 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 8 g (mostly from coconut milk)
Vitamin A 457% DV
Vitamin C 35% DV
Calcium 6% DV
Iron 10% DV

Serving Suggestions

This butternut squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm pita chips for dipping. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or a protein-rich grain like quinoa or farro.

Another delicious option is to use roasted butternut squash cubes as a topping for vegan tacos or wraps. Try combining it with black beans, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a flavorful plant-based meal.

Don’t forget to explore our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for a savory vegan side that complements butternut squash dishes beautifully.

More Vegan Butternut Squash Recipes to Try

Butternut Squash and Chickpea Stew

A hearty and spiced stew perfect for chilly evenings. Combine roasted butternut squash with chickpeas, tomatoes, and warming spices.

Serve over couscous or rice for a filling meal.

Vegan Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Use pureed butternut squash blended with cashews and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, dairy-free cheese sauce. Toss with your favorite pasta for a comforting twist on a classic.

Stuffed Butternut Squash Boats

Halve the squash lengthwise, scoop out some flesh, and fill with a mixture of quinoa, sautéed vegetables, nuts, and dried cranberries. Roast until tender for a beautiful presentation and satisfying meal.

Butternut Squash and Kale Salad

Roasted butternut squash cubes tossed with fresh kale, toasted walnuts, and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing make a nutritious and vibrant salad.

Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

A rich and velvety risotto made with arborio rice, pureed squash, and vegetable broth. Stir in fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

For more creative vegan recipes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and Cajun Ranch Wing Sauce Recipe for flavorful plant-based dishes.

Conclusion

Butternut squash is a star ingredient in vegan cooking, offering both flavor and nutrition in a versatile package. Whether you prefer it roasted, pureed into soups, or incorporated into stews and salads, it brings a comforting sweetness and creamy texture that enhances any meal.

These vegan recipes provide simple yet delicious ways to enjoy butternut squash, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

With easy-to-follow instructions and adaptable ingredients, these dishes encourage you to get creative in the kitchen while embracing wholesome plant-based eating. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices, herbs, and accompaniments to make these recipes your own.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

Description: A creamy and flavorful vegan butternut squash soup perfect for any season. Simple ingredients combine to create a comforting and nutritious meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), 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 to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Roast squash for 25 minutes until tender.
  4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  5. Add roasted squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and cinnamon to the pot.
  6. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
  7. Blend soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
  8. Stir in coconut milk and heat through.
  9. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  10. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 30 g

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Marta K

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