How to Peel and Cut Butternut Squash in a Few Easy Steps
It's so much simpler than you think, we promise.
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The leaves are turning, and there's a chill in the air. You know what that means? Sure, the seasons are changing (ready your sweaters!), but it also means something else: it's officially time for winter squash to reenter your cold-weather vegetable rotation. Butternut squash in particular is a seriously sweet and creamy autumn hero, and it's perfect to use in everything from easy weeknight dinners to Thanksgiving side dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a roasted whole butternut squash recipe, a butternut squash soup recipe, mashed butternut squash recipes or something else entirely, use these tips and tricks to master the art of prepping this fall beauty. While it looks like a slightly daunting gourd, learning how to peel butternut squash (it's SO easy!) and cut butternut squash will set you up for success to prepare and cook (roast, steam, puree) for the best fall-flavored dishes. Once you know how to prepare a butternut squash with these super simple steps, you'll be ready to cook this tasty fruit for any fall occasion.
STEP 1: Remove the Ends
Slice 1/4 in. off both the stem end and the bottom to remove the inedible parts of the squash.
STEP 2: Cut the Squash in Half
Working just above the bulb, cut the squash in half crosswise.
STEP 3: Peel off the Skin
Use a sharp vegetable peeler (our favorite is a Y peeler) to remove the skin from both the “neck” and bulb.
STEP 4: Cut Bulb Portion of Squash in Half
Stand the bulb up on its bottom and cut the squash in half to access the seeds.
STEP 5: Scoop out the Seeds
Using a large spoon to scoop out the seeds and any stringy pulp, then discard.
STEP 6: Cut or Slice Squash as Desired
Slice or cut the squash into chunks.
RELATED: 27 Irresistible Butternut Squash Recipes You Need to Make
How to Whole-Roast Butternut Squash
Now that you know how to peel butternut squash and how to prepare for the most delicious butternut squash recipes, here's how to prep this sweet squash for whole roasting (BONUS: you don't need to peel the squash!).
STEP 1: Remove the Ends
Slice 1/4 in. off both the stem end and the bottom to remove the inedible parts.
STEP 2: Cut Lengthwise Through the Center
Make one long cut through the center of the squash from top to bottom.
STEP 3: Scoop out Seeds
Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any stringy pulp, then discard. Place on a baking sheet, drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper and get roasting!
WATCH: How to Cook Butternut Squash
Nothing says "fall" like the perfect, tender butternut squash. Follow this video to learn how cook yours just right.
More Recipes to Try:
• 27 Irresistible Butternut Squash Recipes
• 19 Butternut Squash Soup Recipes to Warm Up Your Thanksgiving
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