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Home » Recipe Collections

49 Squash You’ll Actually Look Forward to Eating This Fall

Published: Oct 13, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Squash is one of those fall ingredients that people either love or avoid—but these recipes will make you actually excited to cook with it. They’re simple, bold, and packed with great flavor, turning squash into something you’ll look forward to eating, not just tolerate because it’s seasonal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these dishes hit that sweet spot between easy and impressive—the kind of food that tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did.

Top view of a plate of Roasted Acorn Squash.
Roasted Acorn Squash. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Spaghetti Squash Soup

Close up of spaghetti squash soup in a white bowl.
Spaghetti Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spaghetti squash soup cooks quickly using common ingredients and has a creamy texture. Squash thickens the soup naturally, making it a practical choice for a simple meal.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Soup

Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

A close up image of a spaghetti squash scraped out by a spoon placed on a white plate.
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot spaghetti squash can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it easy to prepare for busy days. The squash strands work well as a base for various dishes or a simple side.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

A close up view of spaghetti squash lasagna placed in a baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash lasagna layers ricotta, mozzarella, and herbs and comes together in about 45 minutes. Using squash as the base keeps the dish lighter while still filling.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Top view of butternut squash soup with a spoon in it.
Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Thai-curried butternut squash soup with coconut milk comes together quickly and offers comforting flavors. The squash gives the soup creaminess and natural sweetness without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Acorn Squash Soup

An image of acorn squash soup in a bowl garnished with thyme.
Acorn Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Acorn squash soup cooks in under an hour with a short ingredient list. The squash adds body and a mild flavor that complements a variety of cold-weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Acorn Squash Soup

Butternut Squash Vegan Ramen

Butternut Squash Vegan Ramen. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Butternut squash ramen can be made on the stovetop or in a pressure cooker for a simple weeknight meal. The squash creates a creamy broth while adding nutrition and depth.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Vegan Ramen

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon combines sweet and savory elements in one dish. Squash demonstrates versatility, working well as a side or part of a main dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles with Spinach and Ricotta

Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Garlicky butternut squash noodles with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts cook quickly on the stovetop. Squash serves as a hearty and nutritious alternative to traditional pasta.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Butternut Squash Noodles with Spinach and Ricotta

Roasted Acorn Squash

Roasted Acorn Squash. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted acorn squash topped with cheesy seasoning is tender and easy to make. The squash’s flavor stands out in this quick side that pairs well with winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Acorn Squash

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage Mushrooms

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage Mushrooms. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash sauce over pasta, with caramelized mushrooms and sage, is ready in a short time. Squash functions as a smooth, flavorful base for a simple, filling dish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage Mushrooms

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Butternut squash soup is creamy and spiced, perfect for warming up on cooler days. The squash creates a velvety texture while enhancing natural flavors in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasted Kabocha Squash

Close-up of baked kabocha squash slices seasoned with sesame seeds.
Roasted Kabocha Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted kabocha squash requires minimal preparation and cooks quickly. Squash caramelizes in the oven, giving it a sweet depth that pairs well with many meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Kabocha Squash

Parmesan Roasted Carnival Squash

Parmesan Roasted Carnival Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted carnival squash wedges with garlic and parmesan cook to crisp edges with little effort. The squash develops a rich flavor when roasted, making it a strong side choice.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Carnival Squash

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

An image of spaghetti squash casserole with a serving missing from the lower right side of the baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash casserole comes together in about 45 minutes, fitting well into a busy schedule. The squash base holds cheese and other ingredients for a practical main dish.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker butternut squash soup cooks hands-off and fills the kitchen with aroma. Squash forms the creamy base and adds natural flavor to the finished soup.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Koginut Squash Bowl

Koginut Squash Bowl. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Koginut squash bowls combine seasonal produce into a simple, hearty meal. The squash provides a mild but rich base for vegetables and grains.
Get the Recipe: Koginut Squash Bowl

Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Stuffed acorn squash boats with quinoa, chickpeas, and apricots are easy to prepare. Squash acts as a natural vessel, balancing flavors and textures for a complete dish.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash hummus with cranberries and pomegranate is a quick festive dip. The squash adds creaminess and sweetness that blends with other ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad

Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Roasted butternut squash and pumpkin feta arugula salad is ready in a short time and highlights fall produce. Squash adds a flavorful base that complements greens and other toppings.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut or Pumpkin Feta Arugula Rocket Salad

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash

A halved spaghetti squash on a plate with a fork scooping out the stringy, cooked flesh.
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow cooker spaghetti squash cooks with minimal effort. The squash becomes tender, making it convenient to include in a variety of meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash

Parmesan Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Parmesan Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer spaghetti squash cooks to tender strands in a short time. The squash works well as a side or as a base for Italian-style dishes.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Vegetarian chili with acorn squash, pinto beans, and spices is a hearty autumn dish. Squash adds bulk and flavor, making the chili filling without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Stuffed Delicata Squash with Cranberry Apple Pork Stuffing

Stuffed Delicata Squash with Cranberry Apple Pork Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Delicata squash stuffed with pork, cranberries, apples, and fennel is fit for special occasions. The squash enhances the filling with sweetness and acts as a natural container.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Delicata Squash with Cranberry Apple Pork Stuffing

Sautéed Butternut Squash

Sauteed butternut squash in a stainless steel pan.
Sautéed Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Sautéed butternut squash cooks in minutes for a quick side. Its natural sweetness complements a variety of autumn meals without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Butternut Squash

Twice Baked Spaghetti Squash

Twice Baked Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Twice-baked spaghetti squash filled with spinach, artichokes, tomatoes, and cheese is a practical vegetarian dish. Squash halves hold fillings securely while adding texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Spaghetti Squash

Butternut Squash Casserole

Butternut Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Butternut squash casserole with roasted veggies, kale, herbs, and cheese comes together in under an hour. Squash provides a hearty base that works well with other roasted ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Casserole

Stuffed Honeynut Squash

Stuffed Honeynut Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Honeynut squash is small but naturally sweet, making it quick to roast or stuff. Its flavor holds up well with simple fall-inspired fillings.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Honeynut Squash

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Butternut squash mac and cheese cooks easily on the stovetop. Squash forms a creamy sauce that pairs with pasta for a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Thai Buttercup Squash Soup

Thai Buttercup Squash Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Buttercup squash soup with coconut and lime is ready in minimal time. The squash contributes natural sweetness and balances the Thai-inspired flavors.
Get the Recipe: Thai Buttercup Squash Soup

Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings

Two bowls of butternut squash soup on a wooden table.
Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Butternut squash soup with homemade dumplings pairs soft dumplings with naturally sweet squash. The squash creates a creamy base that cooks quickly.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Soup with Homemade Dumplings

Fall Hummus Pizza

Fall Hummus Pizza. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Hummus pizza with roasted butternut squash, apples, and radishes comes together in under an hour. Squash adds flavor and texture that complements other seasonal toppings.
Get the Recipe: Fall Hummus Pizza

Gluten-Free Vegetarian Butternut Squash Lasagna

Gluten-Free Vegetarian Butternut Squash Lasagna. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Vegetarian butternut squash lasagna with marinara and cheese cooks in about an hour. Squash enriches the dish while keeping the layers light yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Vegetarian Butternut Squash Lasagna

Stuffed Red Kuri Squash

Stuffed Red Kuri Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted red kuri squash stuffed with sausage, mushrooms, and apples is simple to assemble. Squash caramelizes in the oven, adding sweetness to the savory filling.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Red Kuri Squash

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A close up view of three stuffed acorn squash placed in a serving plate.
Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa can be made quickly and has a mix of textures. The squash itself balances flavors, working well for festive or family meals.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Creamy Coconut Delicata Squash Soup

Creamy Coconut Delicata Squash Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy coconut delicata squash soup cooks with minimal steps. The squash forms a naturally rich base and adds subtle sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Delicata Squash Soup

Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Butternut squash mac and cheese topped with breadcrumbs comes together quickly. The squash adds creaminess that blends with the pasta and cheese.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer butternut squash caramelizes easily with little prep. Squash halves absorb seasoning and butter efficiently, making a practical side dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Butternut Squash Curry

Butternut Squash Curry. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Butternut squash curry cooked on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot highlights the squash’s natural flavor. It’s a quick option that combines squash with spices for a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Curry

Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip with Tart Cherry Compote

Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip with Tart Cherry Compote. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash dip with goat cheese and tart cherry compote is ready in under an hour. The squash adds a creamy element that pairs with tangy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip with Tart Cherry Compote

Savoury Steak and Squash Salad

Savoury Steak and Squash Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Steak and squash salad combines protein and seasonal produce in a simple meal. Squash adds texture and a slightly sweet element that balances the dressing.
Get the Recipe: Savoury Steak and Squash Salad

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Chicken and Spinach

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Chicken and Spinach. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash lasagna roll-ups with chicken and spinach cook in about 45 minutes. Squash adds sweetness and a creamy texture that works with hearty fillings.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Chicken and Spinach

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Tomatoes

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Tomatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Roasted butternut squash soup requires minimal preparation and cooks quickly. Squash deepens in flavor while forming a naturally sweet base.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Tomatoes

Wild Mushroom Couscous Lamb Stuffed Kabocha Squash

Wild Mushroom Couscous Lamb Stuffed Kabocha Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lamb-stuffed kabocha squash is filled with mushrooms, couscous, cranberries, and cheese. The squash adds natural sweetness while holding the filling securely.
Get the Recipe: Wild Mushroom Couscous Lamb Stuffed Kabocha Squash

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Air fryer spaghetti squash is ready in 30 minutes and cooks evenly. The squash strands form a light base that pairs well with sauces or other ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf with Pomegranate Seeds

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf with Pomegranate Seeds. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut squash wild rice with walnuts and pomegranate takes under an hour to cook. Squash ties the ingredients together with subtle sweetness and texture.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf with Pomegranate Seeds

Kabocha Squash Chili

Kabocha Squash Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Slow cooker kabocha squash chili combines beans and spices for a filling meal. The squash adds nutty flavor and bulk without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

An image of two stuffed spaghetti squashes on a white plate with a fork slicing a part of one of the squashes.
Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed spaghetti squash with vegetables, herbs, and mozzarella bakes quickly. The squash halves hold the filling while adding flavor and a firm texture.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Smooth Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Coconut Milk

Smooth Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Coconut Milk. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Butternut squash soup with apple and coconut milk cooks in under an hour. Squash balances sweetness and creaminess for a straightforward fall dish.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Butternut Squash Soup with Apple and Coconut Milk

Roasted Honeypatch Squash with Miso Butter

Roasted Honeypatch Squash with Miso Butter. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Honeypatch squash roasts quickly with edible skin, making it simple to prepare. Its sweet flavor works well with light seasoning or butter.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honeypatch Squash with Miso Butter

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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