How to Cook Mashed Potato Squash: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Jump to RecipeCreamy Mashed Potato Squash Recipe – Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food – mashed potato squash! This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, combining the creamy goodness of potatoes with the nutritious benefits of squash. With our easy mashed potato squash recipe, you’ll discover a whole new level of flavor and satisfaction. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a healthy choice that caters to various dietary preferences. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with wholesome goodness. The process of making mashed potato squash is a breeze, and our step-by-step guide on how to make mashed potato squash ensures your success in the kitchen. The result is a velvety smooth and creamy side dish that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal, a nutritious option, or a crowd-pleasing dish, this delicious mashed potato squash recipe has got you covered. Treat yourself to a delightful culinary experience and discover the wonders of mashed potato squash today!
This deliciously vibrant mashed potato squash recipe is a great side dish for the holiday season and Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a family favorite recipe with a 5 star rating. And the best part is you can make this great dish into a vegan version, or make it a classic potatoes recipe. as you prefer.
Delicious mashed squash side dish
To make a delicious and healthy side dish, mashed potato squash is an excellent option. This versatile vegetable is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, mashed potato squash is an easy and tasty dish to prepare and this is one of the best potato squash recipes!
To start, you’ll need to select a fresh and ripe potato squash. Look for squash that is firm and heavy for its size, with a smooth, unblemished skin. Once you’ve selected your squash, wash it thoroughly and cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard them, then cut the squash into cubes.
Next, boil the squash until it is soft and tender. Drain the water and mash the squash with a potato masher or fork until it is smooth and creamy. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir until everything is well combined. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious mashed potato squash!
In this Easy Mashed Potatoes Squash recipe we’re covering
- Easy mashed potato butternut squash ingredients
- Preparation – how to prep potatoes and how to clean butternut squash
- Easy how to boil butternut squash guide
- How to make mashed potatoes squash
- Delicious mashed potato squash recipe
- Tips and tricks for making the best mashed potato squash recipe
- How to make air fryer mashed Potatoes
- How to cook butternut squash in microwave
- Easy way to make air fryer squash
- Ways to add extra flavor to mashed Potato squash
- Delicious ways to serve mashed potatoes
- How to store, reheat and freeze mashed potatoes
- FAQs
Understanding the Ingredients
Potatoes
Potatoes are the star of the show when it comes to mashed potato squash. They provide the creamy texture and starchy flavor that make this dish so comforting. For the best results, choose potatoes that are high in starch, such as Russet or Yukon Gold. These varieties will break down easily when cooked, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, such as red or fingerling potatoes, which will result in a gummy texture. Alternatively, you can substitute the potatoes in this squash dish with sweet potatoes for a very cream mash potato recipe.
Squash
The second key ingredient in mashed potato squash is, of course, squash. But which type of squash should you use? While you can use any type of winter squash, such as butternut or acorn squash, for this recipe, we recommend using butternut squash or Kabocha squash. Kabocha squash has a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes, and its flesh is dense and creamy, making it ideal for mashing. You can get it at a well stocked local grocery store, local market, great local organic farm, or at your local farmer’s market. Note: I don’t recommend spaghetti squash for this recipe as it’s too stringy and doesn’t mash well.
Seasonings to make the best deliciously vibrant mashed potato squash
To make your mashed potato squash extra delicious, you’ll need to add some seasonings. Salt and pepper are a must, but you can also add other herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Be careful not to overdo it with the seasonings, as you don’t want to overpower the natural flavors of the potatoes and squash.
In summary, the key to making delicious mashed potato squash is to choose the right ingredients. Use high-starch potatoes, Kabocha squash, and a careful selection of seasonings to create a creamy and flavorful dish that will be sure to impress.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Potatoes
To begin, gather your potatoes and wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Peel the potatoes with a vegetable peeler or a knife, removing any blemishes or dark spots as you go. Cut the potatoes into small, evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Next, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes simmer until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher, hand masher, or a fork to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps. Add any additional seasonings or ingredients, such as butter, milk, or herbs, to taste.
Preparing the Squash – How to clean butternut squash
To prepare the squash, start by washing it thoroughly and cutting it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp from the center of the squash. Cut the squash into small, evenly sized pieces, similar in size to the potato pieces.
How to Cook Butternut Squash – a boil squash recipe that works with any boiling squash recipes
Place the squash in a separate pot and cover it with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the squash simmer until it is tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 10-15 minutes.
Once the squash is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the squash until it is smooth and free of lumps. Add any additional seasonings or ingredients, such as butter, milk, or herbs, to taste.
That’s it! You’re now ready to combine the mashed potatoes and squash to create a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Tips and Tricks for making the best mashed potato squash
Here are some tips and tricks for making the best mashed potato squash:
1. Choose the right squash: Look for a small butternut squash that feels firm and heavy for its size. It should have a smooth skin without any blemishes or soft spots. This will ensure a sweeter and smoother mashed texture.
2. Balance the flavors: Butternut squash has a naturally sweet flavor, so it’s important to balance it with savory elements. Add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), and salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
3. Don’t overcook: Be mindful not to overcook the potatoes and squash, as they can become mushy and lose their texture. Test them with a fork to ensure they are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can also result in a watery consistency, so drain them well before mashing.
4. Use a potato masher: For a rustic and slightly chunky texture, use a potato masher instead of a blender or food processor. This will give your mashed potato squash some texture and maintain its homemade appeal. You can also use a hand mixer for a lighter, more fluffy mashed potato texture.
5. Adjust the consistency: If your mashed potato squash turns out too thick, you can add a little more almond milk or vegetable broth to achieve the desired creamy consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, allow it to sit for a few minutes to thicken, or add a small amount of breadcrumbs or nutritional yeast to absorb excess moisture.
Bringing it all together extra tip:
6. Taste and adjust: Always taste the mashed potato squash before serving and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to enhance the flavors to your liking.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a delicious and flavorful mashed potato squash recipe that will impress your taste buds and those of your guests. Enjoy the comforting and nutritious goodness of this delightful side dish!
How to cook mashed potato squash – Delicious mashed potato squash recipe
Here’s a delicious recipe for mashed potato squash with cups and grams measurements:
Easy mashed potato squash Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups or 300 grams)
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 2 cups or 300 grams)
- 2 tablespoons (28 grams) vegan butter (or avocado oil – for regular version you can use regular butter)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk- cashew milk, oat milk, or your favorite plant milk should all work well)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to cook mashed potato squash Instructions:
1. Place the cubed potatoes and squash in a large pot of boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and squash and return them to the pot.
3. Add the vegan butter, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Mash the potatoes and squash using a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more almond milk if desired.
5. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
6. Serve the mashed potato squash hot as a delicious and nutritious side dish.
This recipe combines the creaminess of mashed potatoes with the natural sweetness and velvety texture of butternut squash. It’s a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and comforting experience of mashed potato squash!
Different ways to cook mashed potatoes
Air fryer mashed potatoes squash
To make air fryer mashed potatoes and squash, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cubed potatoes and butternut squash in a large bowl. Drizzle them with a little oil and toss to coat.
3. Transfer the potatoes and squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer. If needed, you can cook them in batches.
4. Cook the potatoes and squash in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned, shaking the basket or stirring them halfway through.
5. Once cooked, transfer the potatoes and squash to a mixing bowl. Add the vegan butter or a tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. You can leave it slightly chunky or mash it until smooth.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
8. Serve the air fryer mashed potatoes and squash as a flavorful and creamy side dish.
Enjoy your delicious air fryer mashed potatoes and squash!
Different ways to cook butternut squash
How to cook butternut squash in microwave
To cook a butternut squash in the microwave for making mashed potato squash, follow these steps:
1. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash.
2. Pierce the skin of the squash in several places with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape during cooking.
3. Place the whole butternut squash in a microwave-safe dish or on a microwave-safe plate.
4. Microwave the squash on high power for about 5 minutes to soften the skin.
5. Remove the squash from the microwave and allow it to cool slightly for easier handling.
6. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise.
7. Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each half using a spoon.
8. Place the two halves of the squash, cut side down, in a microwave-safe dish.
9. Add a little water to the dish, about 1/4 cup, to create steam.
10. Microwave the squash halves on high power for about 8-10 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
11. Once cooked, carefully remove the butternut squash from the microwave and allow it to cool slightly before handling.
12. Use a spoon to scoop out the cooked flesh from the skin and transfer it to a bowl.
13. Mash the cooked butternut squash with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
14. Proceed with the mashed potato squash recipe, combining the mashed butternut squash with the mashed potatoes and other ingredients as specified.
Enjoy your delicious mashed potato squash!
Air Fryer Squash: How to cook butternut squash in air fryer
To cook a butternut squash in an air fryer for making mashed potato squash, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash.
3. Slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise.
4. Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each half using a spoon.
5. Brush or drizzle a little oil over the cut sides of the butternut squash, and season with salt and pepper if desired.
6. Place the butternut squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down.
7. Cook the squash in the air fryer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
8. Once cooked, carefully remove the butternut squash from the air fryer. Allow it to cool slightly before handling.
9. Use a spoon to scoop out the cooked flesh from the skin and transfer it to a bowl.
10. Mash the cooked butternut squash with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
11. Proceed with the mashed potato squash recipe, combining the mashed butternut squash with the mashed potatoes and other ingredients as specified.
Enjoy your delicious air fryer mashed potato squash!
The oven way: how to cook butternut squash in the oven
To cook a butternut squash in the oven for making mashed potato squash, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash.
3. Cut the squash in half lengthwise.
4. Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each half using a spoon.
5. Place the two halves of the squash, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
6. Brush the flesh of the squash with a little olive oil, or you can sprinkle it with salt and pepper for added flavor.
7. Place the baking sheet with the squash in the preheated oven.
8. Bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the flesh of the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the squash to cool slightly before handling.
10. Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a spoon to scoop out the cooked flesh from the skin and transfer it to a bowl.
11. Mash the cooked butternut squash with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
12. Proceed with the mashed potato squash recipe, combining the mashed butternut squash with the mashed potatoes and other ingredients as specified.
Enjoy your delicious mashed potato squash!
Tasty ways to add more flavor to mashed potatoes squash
If you want to add more flavor to mashed potato squash, here are some delicious ideas:
1. Roasted Garlic: Roast a few cloves of garlic and mix them into the mashed potato squash. The caramelized garlic will add a rich and savory flavor.
2. Herbs and Spices: Add a variety of herbs and spices to enhance the taste. Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives, or spice it up with paprika, cumin, or garlic powder.
3. Cheese: Stir in grated cheese such as Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyere into the mashed potato squash for a creamy and savory twist.
4. Caramelized Onions: Sauté some onions until caramelized and mix them into the mashed potato squash. The sweetness and depth of flavor from the onions will elevate the dish.
5. Vegan Bacon: Crumble crispy cooked vegan bacon and sprinkle it over the mashed potato squash. The smoky and salty flavors of vegan bacon will add a delicious touch.
6. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add creaminess and tang to the mashed potato squash.
7. Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy and nutty flavor, sprinkle some nutritional yeast into the mashed potato squash. It’s a popular ingredient among vegans for adding a savory taste.
8. Seasoned Butter: Prepare seasoned butter by melting butter and adding herbs, spices, or garlic to it. Drizzle the seasoned butter over the mashed potato squash to infuse it with extra flavor.
Remember, you can combine multiple flavor-enhancing ingredients to create your own unique and tasty mashed potato squash recipe. Feel free to experiment and adjust the flavors to suit your preferences.
Ways to serve the best plant based mashed potato squash
Mashed potato squash is a versatile dish that can be served in various delicious ways. Here are some ideas to enjoy your mashed potato squash:
1. Classic Side Dish: Serve mashed potato squash as a flavorful and nutritious side dish alongside roasted tofu, grilled portobello steak, or baked vegan roast. It pairs well with a variety of proteins.
2. Toppings Galore: Add delicious toppings to your mashed potato squash for extra flavor. Sprinkle shredded cheese, vegan crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top.
3. Savory Casseroles: Incorporate mashed potato squash into casseroles for a comforting and filling meal. Layer it with cooked ground vegan meat, vegetables, and cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden.
4. Stuffed Vegetables: Use mashed potato squash as a stuffing for vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Fill the hollowed-out vegetables with the mashed mixture, top with cheese, and bake until tender.
5. Shepherd’s Pie: Make a twist on the classic shepherd’s pie by replacing traditional mashed potatoes with mashed potato squash as the topping. Spread it over a flavorful filling of minced mushrooms and vegetables, then bake until golden and bubbling.
6. Mashed Potato Squash Patties: Form the mashed potato squash into patties, then pan-fry them until crispy on the outside. Serve them as a delicious and satisfying vegetarian option.
More ways to use mashed potatoes squash
7. Soup Thickener: Use mashed potato squash as a thickener for soups. Add it to vegetable or chicken broth-based soups, pureeing it with an immersion blender or mixing it in until well incorporated.
8. Mashed Potato Squash Pancakes: Create savory pancakes by combining mashed potato squash with flour, eggs, and seasonings. Cook them on a griddle until golden brown and serve as a unique breakfast or brunch option.
Feel free to experiment and get creative with your mashed potato squash. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous tasty ways.
Mashed potato squash storage
To store leftover mashed potato squash, follow these steps:
1. Allow the mashed potato squash to cool completely before storing. This will prevent condensation and maintain its texture.
2. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
3. Press down gently on the surface of the mashed potato squash to remove any excess air and ensure a tight seal.
4. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
5. Place the container in the refrigerator and store for up to 3-4 days.
6. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
7. If the mashed potato squash appears dry after reheating, you can add a splash of almond milk or vegetable broth and mix it in to restore its creaminess.
By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy your leftover mashed potato squash for a few days while maintaining its quality and flavor.
Freezing Mashed Potato squash
Yes, you can freeze mashed potato squash. Freezing is a great option for preserving leftover mashed potato squash for longer periods. Here’s how you can freeze mashed squash:
1. Allow the mashed potato squash to cool completely before freezing. This helps retain its texture and flavor.
2. Transfer the mashed potato squash to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
3. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Place the containers or bags in the freezer and store them for up to 2-3 months.
5. When you’re ready to use the frozen mashed potato squash, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
6. Reheat the thawed mashed potato squash in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
7. If the texture of the thawed mashed potato squash is slightly altered, you can add a splash of almond milk or vegetable broth while reheating and stir to restore its creaminess.
While freezing can affect the texture of mashed potato squash slightly, it is still a convenient method for preserving and enjoying it at a later time.
FAQs – mashed potato squash
Mashed potato squash is a dish made by combining cooked butternut squash and potatoes, which are mashed together to create a creamy and flavorful side dish.
Yes! Leftover cooked squash works great as long as they are cooked or roasted to tenderness. Just reheat in the microwave in a microwave safe bowl and mash with the potatoes.
Mashed potato squash has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor from the butternut squash. The addition of potatoes adds a mild and creamy taste to the dish.
Yes, mashed potato squash is a healthy dish. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. It is also low in calories and fat. By using minimal oil or butter and adjusting the seasonings, you can make a nutritious and wholesome side dish.
Mashed potato squash meal prepping and more FAQs
Yes, mashed potato squash can be made in advance. Prepare the dish as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving, adding a little extra almond milk or vegetable broth if needed to restore the creaminess.
Yes, mashed potato squash can be frozen for later use. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Customizing mashed potatoes and squash
Absolutely! Mashed potato squash can be made vegan or dairy-free by using plant-based milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, instead of dairy milk like we make it in this recipe. You can also substitute vegan butter or olive oil for the traditional butter.
Yes, you can customize the seasonings in mashed potato squash to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, to add more flavor and complexity to the dish.
While butternut squash is commonly used for mashed potato squash, you can experiment with other varieties of squash, such as acorn squash or kabocha squash, to create different flavors and textures.
Vegan Mashed Potato squash recipe serving ideas
- Portobello avocado mushroom steaks
- Lentil burgers
- Crispy potatoes
- Celeriac steak
- Vegan roast
- My vegan brisket (or my gluten-free vegan brisket)
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Creamy easy mashed potato squash recipe: how to cook
Ingredients
Easy mashed potato squash Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cubed (about 2 cups or 300 grams)
- 1 small butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 2 cups or 300 grams)
- 2 tbsp (28g) vegan butter (or avocado oil – for regular version you can use regular butter)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk- cashew milk, oat milk, or your favorite plant milk should all work well)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
How to cook mashed potato squash Instructions:
- Place the cubed potatoes and squash in a large pot of boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and squash and return them to the pot.
- Add the vegan butter, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes and squash using a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more almond milk if desired.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
- Serve the mashed potato squash hot as a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Air fryer mashed potatoes squash
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cubed potatoes and butternut squash in a large bowl. Drizzle them with a little oil and toss to coat.
- Transfer the potatoes and squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer. If needed, you can cook them in batches.
- Cook the potatoes and squash in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned, shaking the basket or stirring them halfway through.
- Once cooked, transfer the potatoes and squash to a mixing bowl. Add the vegan butter or a tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil, almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Use a potato masher or fork to mash the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. You can leave it slightly chunky or mash it until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Serve the air fryer mashed potatoes and squash as a flavorful and creamy side dish.
How to cook butternut squash in microwave to make mashed potato squash
- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash.
- Pierce the skin of the squash in several places with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape during cooking.
- Place the whole butternut squash in a microwave-safe dish or on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave the squash on high power for about 5 minutes to soften the skin.
- Remove the squash from the microwave and allow it to cool slightly for easier handling.
- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each half using a spoon.
- Place the two halves of the squash, cut side down, in a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a little water to the dish, about 1/4 cup, to create steam.
- Microwave the squash halves on high power for about 8-10 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the butternut squash from the microwave and allow it to cool slightly before handling.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the cooked flesh from the skin and transfer it to a bowl.
- Mash the cooked butternut squash with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Proceed with the mashed potato squash recipe, combining the mashed butternut squash with the mashed potatoes and other ingredients as specified.
Air Fryer Squash: How to cook butternut squash in air fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash.
- Slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each half using a spoon.
- Brush or drizzle a little oil over the cut sides of the butternut squash, and season with salt and pepper if desired.
- Place the butternut squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down.
- Cook the squash in the air fryer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the butternut squash from the air fryer. Allow it to cool slightly before handling.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the cooked flesh from the skin and transfer it to a bowl.
- Mash the cooked butternut squash with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Proceed with the mashed potato squash recipe, combining the mashed butternut squash with the mashed potatoes and other ingredients as specified.
The oven way: how to cook butternut squash in the oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash.
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of each half using a spoon.
- Place the two halves of the squash, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Brush the flesh of the squash with a little olive oil, or you can sprinkle it with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Place the baking sheet with the squash in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the flesh of the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the squash.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the squash to cool slightly before handling.
- Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a spoon to scoop out the cooked flesh from the skin and transfer it to a bowl.
- Mash the cooked butternut squash with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Proceed with the mashed potato squash recipe, combining the mashed butternut squash with the mashed potatoes and other ingredients as specified.
Notes
Pet FAQs
Plain, boiled, or mashed potatoes can be safe for dogs to eat in moderation. However, it’s important to ensure that the potatoes are cooked without any added ingredients such as butter, salt, or spices, as these can be harmful to dogs. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to potatoes. Before feeding mashed potatoes to your dog, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to determine if it’s suitable for your dog’s individual dietary needs and health conditions.
It is generally not recommended to feed dogs the skin of butternut squash. While the flesh of butternut squash is safe and nutritious for dogs, the skin can be tough and difficult for them to digest. It’s best to remove the skin before feeding butternut squash to your dog to avoid any potential digestive issues. Additionally, make sure to remove any seeds or other parts of the squash that may not be safe for dogs. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog’s diet.
