If you love warm and cozy side dishes, this Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe will make you very happy. It is simple, creamy and full of deep roasted flavor.
The sweet squash and soft roasted garlic make the perfect mix. You only need a few basic ingredients and the steps are very easy. Anyone can make this dish, even if they are new to cooking.
This recipe brings comfort, color and a touch of natural sweetness to your table. It goes well with many meals. In this blog, you will learn how to make Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash, the ingredients for Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash and the best tips to get perfect results.
My Experience With This Recipe
I love this recipe because it feels warm and homely. The roasted garlic smell fills the kitchen and makes the dish taste amazing. The squash becomes very soft after roasting, so mashing it is super easy.
I often make this dish for family dinners or holidays. It always gets many compliments because it tastes rich, sweet and slightly savory. And the best part? It needs no special skills.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 160 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher
- Spoon
Ingredients You Need for Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1–2 tablespoons cream or milk (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Roast the squash
Cut the squash in half, remove seeds, oil the top and roast until soft and tender. - Roast the garlic
Cut the garlic top, oil lightly, wrap in foil and roast until golden and soft. - Scoop the squash
Scoop the roasted squash into a bowl once it cools enough to handle. - Squeeze the garlic
Remove the garlic from the foil and squeeze the soft cloves into the bowl. - Add butter
Add butter to the warm squash and let it melt into the mixture fully. - Add seasoning
Sprinkle salt, pepper and paprika over the squash and garlic mixture. - Mash well
Mash everything together until you get a smooth, creamy texture you like. - Add milk
Add a little milk if you want a softer and silkier mash texture. - Adjust taste
Taste the mash and adjust salt, pepper or butter based on preference. - Serve warm
Serve the mashed squash warm with your favorite meal or holiday dish.
Tips to Make the Best Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash
- Use a ripe squash for better sweetness.
- Roast slowly to bring out rich flavor.
- Add extra butter for extra creaminess.
- Mix with a little cream for a smoother texture.
- Roast garlic until very soft for best taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not use unripe squash.
- Do not skip roasting; it adds flavor.
- Do not add too much milk; it may get runny.
- Do not mash when cold; mash while warm.
- Do not over-season; keep flavors balanced.
Serving Suggestions
This roasted garlic mashed butternut squash tastes great with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, baked salmon or simple veggie dishes. It also works well as a Thanksgiving side dish.
The sweet and savory flavor pairs nicely with spicy, smoky or rich main meals. Serve it in a warm bowl with a small butter swirl for a cozy touch.
Variations You Can Try
- Add cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- Add maple syrup for more sweetness.
- Add parmesan for a cheesy taste.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Add chili flakes for light heat.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight box for three days.
- Reheat in the microwave with a little milk to soften.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for one month.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Stir well after reheating to fix texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Carbs | 22g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 2g |
Health Benefits
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C. It helps support vision and boosts your immune system.
Roasted garlic is great for heart health and adds antioxidants. This recipe is a lighter side dish with natural sweetness and no heavy cream unless added. It is comforting yet healthy.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash about 2 pounds
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 –2 tablespoons cream or milk optional
Instructions
Roast the squash
- Cut the squash in half, remove seeds, oil the top and roast until soft and tender.
Roast the garlic
- Cut the garlic top, oil lightly, wrap in foil and roast until golden and soft.
Scoop the squash
- Scoop the roasted squash into a bowl once it cools enough to handle.
Squeeze the garlic
- Remove the garlic from the foil and squeeze the soft cloves into the bowl.
Add butter
- Add butter to the warm squash and let it melt into the mixture fully.
Add seasoning
- Sprinkle salt, pepper and paprika over the squash and garlic mixture.
Mash well
- Mash everything together until you get a smooth, creamy texture you like.
Add milk
- Add a little milk if you want a softer and silkier mash texture.
Adjust taste
- Taste the mash and adjust salt, pepper or butter based on preference.
Serve warm
- Serve the mashed squash warm with your favorite meal or holiday dish.
Notes
- Use a ripe squash for better sweetness.
- Roast slowly to bring out rich flavor.
- Add extra butter for extra creaminess.
- Mix with a little cream for a smoother texture.
- Roast garlic until very soft for best taste.
FAQs about Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe
1. Can I make this recipe without roasting the garlic?
You can, but roasted garlic gives a softer, sweeter and deeper flavor. Raw garlic may taste sharp and strong, which can change the whole dish. Roasting makes the garlic smooth and perfect for mashing with squash.
2. Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh squash?
Yes, you can use frozen squash, but it may be softer and hold more moisture. You may need to cook out extra water or reduce milk when mashing to keep the texture firm and creamy.
3. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Also skip milk or use almond milk. The flavor stays rich and the mash remains smooth and comforting with no dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Garlic Mashed Butternut Squash Recipe is simple, warm and full of flavor. It is perfect for daily meals or special holidays.
With very easy steps, simple ingredients and great taste, you will enjoy making it again and again. Enjoy this cozy dish with your favorite meal!
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!