Ah, Thanksgiving! A time for family, gratitude, and of course, the star of the show—stuffing! Trust me, stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting hug on your plate. My absolute favorite is this butternut squash stuffing. The sweet, earthy flavor of roasted butternut squash combined with savory herbs and crunchy pecans makes it a standout. I remember my grandmother making stuffing every year, and the aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. It’s a tradition that brings us together, and this recipe is sure to become a beloved part of your Thanksgiving feast too!

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving

Let’s gather the ingredients to make this delicious butternut squash stuffing! You’ll need:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups of bread cubes (stale bread works great for texture!)
• 1 medium onion, chopped finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced for that aromatic kick
• 1 cup celery, chopped to add crunch
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped for some nutty goodness
• 2 cups vegetable broth to moisten everything
• 1 teaspoon sage for that classic stuffing flavor
• 1 teaspoon thyme to enhance the earthiness
• Salt and pepper to taste

These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together beautifully, making your Thanksgiving spread unforgettable!

How to Prepare Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving

Alright, let’s get cooking! This butternut squash stuffing is super easy to whip up, and I promise you’ll be so proud when you see it come together. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because we want everything to bake evenly and get that beautiful golden crust.

While the oven is warming up, grab a skillet and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and celery over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be heavenly! Next, toss in your diced butternut squash and cook it until it’s tender, which should take another 10 minutes. You want it soft enough to blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

Once your veggies are ready, combine them in a large bowl with the bread cubes, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Pour in the vegetable broth, and don’t forget to season with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, and transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. The aroma will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” Trust me, this stuffing will steal the show!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and celery over medium heat until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced butternut squash and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the bread cubes, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix everything well and transfer to a greased baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butternut squash stuffing is not just delicious; it’s a total game changer for your Thanksgiving table! Here’s why you’re going to adore it:

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy holiday cooking!
• Flavorful with the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
• Healthy and packed with nutritious ingredients—it’s a guilt-free indulgence!
• Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for all your guests.
• Delicious leftovers that can be enjoyed in so many ways!

Trust me, once you try this stuffing, it’ll become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

Tips for Success with Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving

To make your butternut squash stuffing absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t rush the sautéing process; taking the time to get your onion, garlic, and celery nice and soft really enhances the flavor. If you want to switch things up, try using different nuts like walnuts or even hazelnuts for a unique twist! You can also add in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth or swap the dried cranberries for diced apples for a fresh crunch. And remember, you can make this stuffing a day ahead—just store it in the fridge and bake it right before serving. It’s a time-saver and tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to provide accurate information, the exact numbers for calories, fat, and other nutrients may differ. It’s always best to check the packaging of your ingredients for the most precise values.

FAQ about Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving

Got questions about this butternut squash stuffing? I’ve got answers! First off, can you make it ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. As for leftovers, they’ll keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just reheat in the oven to get that crispy top back! What should you serve it with? It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, green beans, or a fresh salad. And trust me, it’s just as tasty the next day, too!

Serving Suggestions for Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving

When it comes to serving your butternut squash stuffing, the options are endless! This delightful stuffing pairs perfectly with a juicy roast turkey, allowing the sweet and savory flavors to complement each other beautifully. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try serving it alongside a honey-glazed ham or herb-crusted chicken for a deliciously festive meal. It also works wonderfully with a fresh green salad topped with cranberries and walnuts for a lighter option. And don’t forget about some roasted seasonal vegetables on the side—think Brussels sprouts or carrots! Your Thanksgiving table will be a colorful feast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving

Storing your butternut squash stuffing is super simple! Just let it cool down completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3 days—perfect for those tasty leftovers! If you’re looking to save it for longer, feel free to freeze it. Just make sure to portion it out, and it can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When it’s time to enjoy again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This way, you’ll keep that delightful flavor and texture intact!

For more information on the health benefits of butternut squash, check out this Healthline article.

For a classic stuffing recipe, you can also explore this classic stuffing recipe.

Butternut Squash Stuffing Thanksgiving: 5 Reasons to Indulge

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A savory and sweet butternut squash stuffing perfect for Thanksgiving.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 cups bread cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sage
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and celery until soft.
3. Add butternut squash and cook until tender.
4. Combine sautéed mixture with bread cubes, cranberries, and pecans.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and season with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix well and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

• You can use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
• Add more vegetables if desired.
• This stuffing can be made a day in advance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: butternut squash stuffing thanksgiving