This 3-Ingredient Recipe Is the Tastiest Way to Eat Butternut Squash This Season
Butternut squash is a fall favorite, and while I don’t always gravitate toward vegetables, this simple recipe has transformed my view on seasonal veggies. With just three core ingredients, you can turn butternut squash into a cheesy, savory side dish that even veggie skeptics will love. Let’s dive into the details of how to make delicious parmesan butternut squash bites.
Why butternut squash is a fall staple
Butternut squash is a seasonal star for good reason. It's not only packed with vitamins A and C, but it also brings a rich, creamy texture to any dish, making it a versatile vegetable for soups, stews, and even baked treats. Its natural sweetness pairs well with savory ingredients like parmesan cheese, making it the perfect foundation for this easy recipe. Whether you're a fan of roasted squash or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to win you over with its simplicity and big flavors.
Tips for prepping butternut squash
Before diving into the recipe, here are a few handy tips to make preparing butternut squash even easier:
1. Peel carefully
Butternut squash has thick skin, so use a sturdy vegetable peeler or sharp knife to remove it.
2. Slice with caution
Always use a sharp knife and cut the squash in half lengthwise for easier handling. Scoop out the seeds before roasting.
3. Pre-roast for better texture
Roasting the squash beforehand softens it, making it easier to mash and incorporate into your dough.
Easy parmesan butternut squash bites recipe
This easy recipe, adapted from Justine at @justine_snacks, transforms butternut squash into cheesy, savory bites with just three key ingredients: parmesan, butternut squash and flour. She also has a few optional add-ins including baking powder, egg wash and rosemary, but that's up to you.
Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour, packed
1 tsp. baking powder
? tsp. salt
? cup roasted squash or honey nut squash, roasted and mashed until smooth
1 tsp. rosemary thyme and red pepper flakes (optional)
? cup grated parmesan, for the dough
? cup grated parmesan for topping
Egg wash (optional)
Directions:
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 bites
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Peel and slice the squash into cubes. Roast on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes, or until soft. (Pro tip: roast ahead of time to speed up the process!)
Mash the roasted squash in a large bowl until smooth. Add 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, a pinch of salt, and any optional spices like rosemary. Stir in ? cup of parmesan cheese and mix until the dough comes together. Let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes.
Roll out the dough to about 1 inch thick and cut into squares. Top each square with an egg wash (optional) and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
These bites are the perfect side dish for any fall meal, bringing together the creaminess of the squash, the saltiness of the cheese, and the hint of rosemary for extra flavor.
Storing and reheating parmesan butternut squash bites
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), these butternut squash bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze the unbaked dough for up to a month. Simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
More butternut squash recipes:
Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash Puree