The Squash Recipes We’re Excited to Make This Season

Autumn is when many types of squash come into their full glory. During this time of year, you’re likely to find tastier, cheaper options at both grocery stores and your local farmer’s market in most parts of the U.S. But if you usually just cover your chopped squash in olive oil, salt and pepper, you’re missing out on just how delicious this ingredient can be. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite internet squash recipes so you can start thinking about this ingredient in new, creative ways. You can follow them to a T, or you can use them as inspiration for the next time you’re trying to figure out what to do with some produce you have on hand.

1. Butternut Squash and Leek Stuffing from Love & Lemons

Your average Thanksgiving stuffing gets a makeover in this recipe from Love & Lemons. Instead of a bread-only stuffing, this recipe utilizes butternut squash for a slightly sweeter (and definitely heartier) stuffing. You won’t want to skip the leeks, either—once they’re sauteed, they lend a slight sweetness to the dish that plays well with the subtle flavor of the squash.

2. Southwest Spaghetti Squash Casserole from Recipe Runner

Spaghetti squash doesn’t have to be boring, especially when you pair it with your favorite Southwestern flavors. I love this recipe for Southwest spaghetti squash casserole from Recipe Runner. Black beans, cheese and chicken ensure a single serving will have you feeling full, and cilantro, green onions and jalapeños provide a touch of freshness to the otherwise hearty dish.

3. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage from Well Plated

Make an acorn squash into a whole meal by stuffing it with sausage per this recipe from Well Plated. Sausage, mushrooms and apples come together to make the stuffing for the otherwise simply prepared main ingredient. When all the ingredients come together, the final result is warming and nourishing. It’s exactly what I want to eat on a cold, rainy fall day.

4. Maple Sugar Roasted Kabocha Squash from Eating by Elaine

Kabocha squash might not be quite as easy to come by as some of the other varieties on this list, but if you do happen to get your hands on some, you have to make this recipe for maple sugar roasted kabocha squash from Eating by Elaine. Yes, this ingredient can be delicious when it’s prepared with savory ingredients, but this sweeter recipe makes the perfect sweet side dish or even light dessert. And since it only calls for five ingredients, you can throw this dish together without a trip to the grocery store.

5. Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash from Downshiftology

Add Parmesan to just about anything, and it’s probably going to taste good. That’s why I can’t wait to make this Parmesan herb roasted acorn squash recipe from Downshiftology. Once the main ingredient has been in the oven for a while, that cheese will start to brown up, creating a lovely crispy, savory crust that’ll have you wanting to make this side dish all season long.

6. Butternut Squash and Swiss Chard Lasagna from Sweet Potato Soul

Want to give your lasagna an autumnal makeover? Look no further than this Sweet Potato Soul recipe for butternut squash and Swiss chard lasagna. Layers of thinly sliced butternut provide the perfect, slightly sweet backdrop for the bold bitterness of Swiss chard and the earthiness of sliced mushrooms. The best part? This recipe is completely vegan.

7. Parmesan Garlic Delicata Squash from Inspired Taste

Of all the types of squash featured in this list of recipes, delicata may be the easiest to work with, largely because you can actually eat the skin. This recipe for Parmesan garlic delicata squash keeps things simple but ensures every bite is filled with flavor. It’s hard to go wrong with Parmesan and garlic as flavor-enhancers, and delicata works as the ideal vehicle for all of that pungent goodness.

8. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese from Ahead of Thyme

Craving mac and cheese but want it to be a bit healthier than your standard Kraft in a box? You may want to try this recipe for butternut squash mac and cheese from Ahead of Thyme. You’ll combine cheese and the flesh of roasted butternut squash to make a silky, healthier cheese sauce to douse the pasta in. Serve with roasted vegetables and fresh bread on the side.

9. Baked Buttercup Squash with Cinnamon Apples from Bake It with Love

Buttercup squash, which you may be able to find at your local farmers market, really shines when it’s paired with apples, butter, honey, salt and a variety of warming spices. This side dish is on the sweeter side, so it’s perfect for pairing with saltier, more savory dishes or enjoying with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. If you can’t find the buttercup variety, you can sub in butternut instead.

10. Roasted Stuffed Delicata Squash from The Mediterranean Dish

Delicata gets an autumnal makeover with this recipe for roasted stuffed delicata from The Mediterranean Dish. Pack your delicata with farro, nuts and dried fruit for a perfect fall weather veggie dish. It’s light enough to be eaten as a side dish, but I think it’s particularly perfect for a weekend lunch when you want something light but still filling.

Samantha Maxwell is a food writer and editor based in Boston. Follow her on Twitter at @samseating.