Squash isn’t just for sweet pies or side dishes at holiday dinners. It’s a versatile ingredient that works in everything from casseroles to soups and snacks. Whether you have zucchini, acorn squash, butternut, or pumpkin on hand, there’s a way to put it to good use.
These recipes are simple, filling, and full of flavor. They’re great for weeknight meals or when you want something a little different. Many of them can be prepped ahead, making busy nights easier.
If your garden or farmers market is loaded with squash, this is a smart way to use it up. From crispy snacks to cozy stews, there’s plenty here to try. You might find a new favorite for the dinner table.
Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce
This sauce blends zucchini with Parmesan for a rich, smooth topping for your favorite pasta. It’s an easy way to work extra veggies into dinner. Serve it over any noodles you have on hand for a fast meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce
Zucchini Fries
These air fryer zucchini fries come out crisp on the outside and tender in the middle. They make a fun alternative to regular fries. Serve them as a snack or an easy side dish.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fries
Savory Stuffed Pumpkin
This dish features pumpkin filled with a hearty mix of grains, veggies, or sausage. It’s a great option for fall gatherings or as a main dish. The pumpkin itself turns tender and full of flavor as it bakes.
Get the Recipe: Savory Stuffed Pumpkin
Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Acorn squash cooks up quickly in the air fryer with crisp edges and a soft inside. It’s simple to season with whatever spices you like. This works as a side or part of a veggie plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Baked Sliced Zucchini
This recipe keeps things simple with sliced zucchini baked until tender with golden edges. It pairs well with almost any main dish. You can change the seasoning to fit what you’re serving.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sliced Zucchini
Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole
This casserole has all the flavor of stuffed zucchini without the extra work. It’s a one-pan dinner that comes together fast. The zucchini stays tender, and the topping adds a bit of crunch.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Zucchini Casserole
Maple Brown Sugar Roasted Acorn Squash
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of acorn squash, and the maple and brown sugar add a rich glaze. It’s great for fall dinners. The slices look nice on a serving platter too.
Get the Recipe: Maple Brown Sugar Roasted Acorn Squash
Hearty Pumpkin Chili
Pumpkin adds a rich texture to this warm, filling chili. It’s a smart way to use canned or fresh pumpkin in a savory dish. This one’s great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Pumpkin Chili
Salt and Pepper Zucchini Chips
Thin zucchini slices baked until crisp make a light, easy snack. Just a bit of salt and pepper is all they need. They’re great on their own or with your favorite dip.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Zucchini Chips
Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash
This stew uses squash for added texture and sweetness in a cozy, one-pot meal. The Instant Pot makes it fast enough for weeknights. Serve with bread for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Butternut squash and cauliflower roast up tender with crisp bits of bacon. It’s a hearty side dish that works well with chicken or pork. The mix of flavors keeps it simple but tasty.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
This casserole combines zucchini and cheese for a warm, comforting bake. It’s easy to put together and pairs well with any main course. Great for using up extra zucchini from the garden.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
Cooking spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot saves time and effort. The strands come out tender and ready for your favorite sauce. It’s a simple way to swap in more veggies at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash