How To Cook Frozen Butternut Squash – A Creamy Comfort Food?

how to cook frozen butternut squash

If you’re like most people, you probably think that cooking frozen butternut squash is a daunting task. But it’s really not as complicated as you might think!

In fact, with just a few simple tips, you can have this delicious vegetable on the table in no time. So what are you waiting for? Read on to learn how to cook frozen butternut squash like a pro!

How To Cook Frozen Butternut Squash In Oven?

Here’s how to cook this healthy veggie in a few minutes:

  • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
  • Spread the frozen squash onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is cooked through and tender.

Enjoy it as is, or use it in your favorite recipe that calls for cooked butternut squash!

Frozen squash is a versatile and convenient ingredient to have on hand. Here are some other ways that you can cook it:

Roasting:

  • Cut the butternut squash into cubes.
  • Toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings.
  • Roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees until tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Sautéing:

  • Sauté frozen squash in a little olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Continue until they are browned and tender.
  • Season as desired.

Mashing:

  • Mash and cook frozen butternut squash with a little butter, milk, and salt to taste.
  • You can also add other herbs and spices as desired.
  • Serve as a side dish or use as a base for soup or other recipes.

Baking:

  • Use frozen squash in place of fresh butternut squash in any baking recipe.
  • It will cook up similarly to fresh squash, so there is no need to thaw it first.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Be creative and experiment with different ways of cooking this healthy veggie to find your favorite!

Read More: The 12 Best Frozen Spinach Picks For The Veggie Lovers

Secret Tips When Cooking A Frozen Butternut Squash

When it comes to cooking this healthy frozen veggie, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to get the best results.

First, make sure that you thaw the squash entirely before you start cooking it. – If you don’t do this, the squash will be very difficult to cook evenly.

Next, cut the squash into even slices before you cook it. – This will help it cook more evenly and prevent it from drying out.

Also, don’t overcook the squash. – You want it to be cooked through but still have a little bit of a bite to it. Otherwise, it will end up being mushy and unappetizing.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to cook a delicious and healthy dish that your whole family will love.

Yummy Recipe Ideas – Cooking Frozen Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a great vegetable to cook with because it’s so versatile. You can use it in soups, stews, casseroles, and even desserts! Here are some delicious and easy recipe ideas that use this healthy veggie –

Soups:

  • Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Sage: This soup is a fall favorite. The apple and sage give it a wonderful flavor that will warm you up on a cold day.
  • Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Parmesan: This soup is rich and creamy thanks to the addition of Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a chilly night.
  • Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon: This soup is creamy and flavorful, and the bacon adds a nice salty crunch. It’s perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.

Stews:

  • Butternut Squash and Potato Stew: This stew is packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for a winter night.
  • Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew: This stew is hearty and filling. The butternut squash provides a great source of fiber and vitamins, while the chicken adds protein.
  • Beef and Butternut Squash Stew: This stew is rich and hearty. The butternut squash gives it a lovely sweetness, while the beef provides protein and iron.

Casseroles:

  • Butternut Squash and broccoli Casserole: This casserole is a great way to get your veggies in. The butternut squash and broccoli are covered in a cheesy sauce and baked to perfection.
  • Butternut Squash, Kale, and Bacon Casserole: This casserole is packed with flavor. The butternut squash, kale, and bacon all work together to create a delicious dish.
  • Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese: This mac and cheese is comfort food at its finest. The butternut squash gives the dish a lovely sweetness, while the cheese provides creaminess and flavor.

Desserts:

  • Butternut Squash Pie: This pie is perfect for fall. The butternut squash filling is sweet and flavorful, and the flaky crust is irresistible.
  • Butternut Squash Cake: This cake is moist and flavorful. The butternut squash gives it a lovely sweetness, while the frosting is rich and creamy.
  • Butternut Squash Brownies: These brownies are fudgy and delicious. The butternut squash gives them a lovely flavor and natural sweetness.

FAQs On Cooking Frozen Butternut Squash

Can butternut squash be cooked from frozen?

Yes, butternut squash can be cooked from frozen. You don’t need to defrost it first; just cut off any chunks that are too big to fit in your pot.

Should I defrost butternut squash before cooking?

If you want to defrost it before cooking, you can do so by microwaving it for a few minutes or leaving it out at room temperature for an hour or two. However, it’s not necessary to defrost the squash before cooking it.

How do I defrost butternut squash quickly?

If you need to defrost butternut squash quickly, place it in a bowl of cold water. Let the squash soak for about 10 minutes or until it is thawed.

You can also defrost butternut squash in the microwave. Place the frozen squash on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until thawed.

How long does frozen butternut squash take to boil?

It takes around 15-20 minutes to boil frozen squash. You can check if it is cooked by piercing it with a fork; if the fork goes in easily, then the squash is ready.

Let the squash cool down slightly before handling it, as it will be very hot. Once it is cooled, you can either mash it or cut it into pieces and add it to your dish.

Cook Frozen Butternut Squash For A Healthy Holiday Meal

So, now you know how to cook frozen butternut squash. It’s a really simple process – just thaw it out and bake it in the oven or any other method that you prefer!

This healthy winter vegetable is perfect for adding to your meals, whether you’re cooking up a storm for the holidays or looking for some nutritious recipes to add to your rotation.

What will you make with your butternut squash? Let me know in the comments below.