Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for oven roasted buttercup squash, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Basic Ingredients:
Buttercup Squash – This winter squash looks a lot like a kabocha squash in size and color, but often has a little ridge at one end, similar to a turban squash. Sometimes it doesn’t have this ridge. Peak season starts in late summer or early fall and continues through the winter, so you’ll be able to find them at your local farmers’ market or grocery store during those times. Look for a firm squash that feels heavy for its size, which means it’s fresh and ripe. Olive Oil – This adds flavor, helps the seasonings stick, and promotes browning and caramelization. You can also substitute avocado oil, or any heat-safe oil. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
Optional Garlic Parmesan Coating:
You can roast buttercup squash plain with the ingredients above, but I like to add a parmesan coating. This type of squash tends to be more dry than other squash varieties, so this helps to lock in moisture. You’ll need:
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a browned, crispy coating that’s so good! You can also use other very hard cheeses, such as pecorino Romano. Garlic Powder – Because… who doesn’t like garlic? Fresh garlic would burn at the high heat, so garlic powder works best. Dried Thyme Leaves – I used 1/2 tablespoon (1 1/2 teaspoons) of dried thyme, but you can use 1 1/2 tablespoons (4 1/2 teaspoons) of fresh thyme instead if you like. You can also try rosemary or sage, or just use 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning instead.
See Flavor Variations below for more seasoning ideas!
How To Cut Buttercup Squash
The best way to cut buttercup squash is into wedges, similar to a kabocha squash. The skin is very tough, so I wouldn’t recommend trying to peel it.
How To Cook Buttercup Squash
This section shows how to roast buttercup squash, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
Flavor Variations
The best part about this dish is that you can make it a variety of different flavors. Here are some other ways to season your buttercup squash recipes: Parchment paper is the most non-stick, but will reduce browning. I prefer to use foil or a bare sheet pan, brushed with some extra oil to prevent sticking.
Maple Pecan – Omit the garlic powder and thyme. Right before the last 5 minutes of roasting time, drizzle maple syrup (or natural sugar-free maple syrup) over the squash and sprinkle with chopped pecans. It’s the perfect sweet and nutty combination. Spicy – Add some heat with a combination of 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon `cayenne pepper, and a pinch of chili powder. Herby – Instead of parmesan cheese and garlic powder, use a combination of 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, and 1 teaspoon fresh sage.
You can also apply the variations in my kabocha squash recipe post to this buttercup squash recipe instead.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Or use them in Panera Autumn squash soup. Reheat: Simply reheat in the microwave, or in a 350 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm. Freeze: You can freeze both uncooked and cooked buttercup squash recipes. For uncooked squash, peel, seed, and cut it into portions, then freeze them in airtight containers for up to 12 months. For cooked squash, cool it, portion it, and freeze in airtight containers or zip lock bags for up to 6-8 months.
What To Serve With Buttercup Squash
The flavor of roasted buttercup squash recipes works with so many main dishes. Try these simple pairings:
Seafood – Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this squash alongside a perfectly baked salmon fillet or quick baked shrimp. Chicken – Try garlic butter chicken or bold paprika chicken for a cozy dinner. For a hands-off cooking experience, make crock pot chicken legs or faster Instant Pot chicken legs. Pork – Add a side of squash to your air fryer pork chops or slow cooker pork tenderloin for a comforting and balanced meal. Turkey – Roasted turkey or quick and easy turkey breast in the air fryer, especially during the holiday season, complements the buttercup squash so well. If you have dark meat lovers, make my turkey leg recipe or turkey wings instead. Soups, Stews, and Casseroles – You can also substitute this squash in butternut squash soup, or use it as your veggie in chicken bacon casserole for a fall flavor.
More Roasted Winter Squash Recipes
There are a variety of winter squash recipes you can try. Here are a few of my favorites: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info does not include optional ingredients.
