Butternut Squash Vegan Recipe YouTube: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Butternut squash is a versatile, naturally sweet vegetable that lends itself beautifully to vegan cooking. If you’ve been searching for a hearty, nutritious, and absolutely delicious vegan recipe centered around butternut squash, you’ve come to the right place!

In this post, we’ll walk you through a flavorful vegan butternut squash recipe inspired by popular YouTube cooking tutorials that have taken the plant-based world by storm. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is designed to be easy, satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients.

From roasting to seasoning, every step is crafted to enhance the natural sweetness of the squash while balancing it with savory, aromatic spices. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving as an impressive side dish for guests.

Keep reading to discover why this recipe is a staple in vegan kitchens and how you can customize it to suit your tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butternut squash vegan recipe is a true kitchen winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and basic kitchen equipment.

The roasting process caramelizes the squash’s natural sugars, giving every bite a rich, deep flavor that’s hard to resist.

Second, it’s nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthful choice for any meal. The recipe is also gluten-free and allergen-friendly, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Finally, it’s adaptable! Whether you want to add spices like smoked paprika or toss in some fresh herbs, this recipe welcomes your creativity.

It pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a flexible addition to your weekly menu.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for extra caramelization)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Equipment

  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp chef’s knife for peeling and chopping
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Oven preheated to 425°F (220°C)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help roast the squash to a perfect caramelized finish.
  2. Prepare the butternut squash: Peel the squash carefully with a vegetable peeler, then cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Chop the flesh into roughly 1-inch cubes for even roasting.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the maple syrup if you want a touch of sweetness.
  4. Toss the squash cubes in the oil and spice mixture until each piece is evenly coated. This will infuse the squash with flavor and help it roast beautifully.
  5. Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the cubes aren’t overcrowded to allow for proper caramelization.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. The squash should be tender and golden brown on the edges.
  7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Add chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
  8. Serve warm as a main dish or side. Enjoy the sweet, smoky, and savory flavors!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra protein boost, try tossing in some roasted chickpeas or cooked quinoa!”

Here are some ways to make this recipe your own:

  • Spice it up: Add curry powder, turmeric, or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
  • Make it creamy: Blend the roasted squash with coconut milk and a squeeze of lime for a luscious soup.
  • Add nuts or seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts add delightful crunch and nutrition.
  • Use fresh herbs: Swap parsley for rosemary or thyme to vary the aroma and taste.
  • Sweeten it: Drizzle a little more maple syrup or sprinkle cinnamon before roasting for a dessert twist.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 110 kcal
Carbohydrates 28 g
Dietary Fiber 4 g
Protein 2 g
Fat 5 g (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
Vitamin A 457% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C 35% of the Daily Value
Potassium 15% of the Daily Value

Serving Suggestions

This roasted butternut squash makes a fantastic side to many meals. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, grain bowls, or vegan protein dishes.

It pairs wonderfully with:

Conclusion

This vegan butternut squash recipe is a testament to the delicious possibilities of plant-based cooking. Its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all levels, while its flavor profile is complex enough to impress even the most discerning palates.

By roasting the squash with warming spices and a hint of sweetness, you create a dish that’s comforting, nutritious, and deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight side or incorporating it into a special meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the tips and variations we shared to make it uniquely yours.

And if you love exploring creative vegan recipes, check out some of our other plant-based favorites linked above for even more inspiration. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Butternut Squash Vegan Recipe

Description: A simple and delicious roasted butternut squash dish perfect for a vegan meal. Packed with warm spices and easy to prepare.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, garlic, maple syrup, and lemon juice.
  3. Add cubed butternut squash to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Roast for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
  6. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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