Grilled Butternut Squash

Grilling vegetables is the easiest way to elevate a basic vegetable into a smoky, umami masterpiece. Grilled vegetables like grilled cauliflower, grilled carrots, and grilled cabbage are some of my favorites. However, I recently tried this Grilled Butternut Squash, and I'm hooked.

If you’ve never had grilled butternut squash before, you don't know what you're missing! Cooking butternut squash on the grill brings out its natural sweetness and emphasizes that umami flavor, making it a fantastically filling treat. I usually make it with my signature cinnamon-chili powder flavor combo, and I can't remember a time when we didn't finish a batch in one sitting!

What I love most about grilled butternut squash is that you can pair it with any main dish, and it instantly upgrades it. From grilled meats to pasta dishes and even placed on top of a salad, this recipe is a hit no matter how you serve it!

The Best Way to Enjoy Butternut Squash

I'm all about finding new ways to enjoy vegetables, and this butternut squash has to be at the top of my list! Here's why we love it:

• Flavor: Smoky grilled squash paired with chili powder and cinnamon creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory that will elevate any meal.
• Quick: With just 20 minutes total time, this grilled butternut squash is an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or a last-minute BBQ addition.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side for grilled meats, toss it into a salad, or even mix it into a grain bowl for a simple yet flavorful meal addition.
• Texture: The grilling gives the squash a tender, creamy interior while creating a slightly crispy, caramelized exterior.
• Flexible: Want a little more heat? Add cayenne or smoked paprika. If you like it sweeter, drizzle it with honey before serving it for a caramelized finish.

Ingredients and Easy Swaps

Here is everything you need to make this grilled butternut squash recipe:

• Butternut squash: I recommend using fresh, peeled butternut squash for this recipe. It also works with sweet potatoes, acorn squash, spaghetti squash, kabocha squash, buttercup squash, or any other winter squash available in the grocery store.
• Olive oil: Use any other cooking oil you have on hand.
• Seasonings: While you can simply use sea salt and black pepper, I love mixing in cinnamon and chili powder for a sweet nutty taste and some heat.

How to Shop for Butternut Squash

If you aren't familiar with butternut squash, you might find yourself in the vegetable section staring at the squash without a clue about which one to get.

Do you tap on it like a watermelon? Maybe give it a gentle squeeze like a cucumber?

Turns out, it's actually much easier than both of those – just look for squash with a thick neck and a small bulb. Doing this will make sure you get more squash meat and fewer seeds. You should also hold it to see if it feels heavier than it looks.

Can I leave the skin on the butternut squash?

Yes, you can leave the skin on, but peeling it is typically recommended for a smoother texture. If you prefer a more rustic texture or are grilling large slices, leaving the skin on can make it easier to handle, as it helps the squash hold its shape. Just be aware that the skin can be a bit tough once grilled.

Tips for Grilling Butternut Squash

There are tons of ways to cook butternut squash, but grilling is the easiest, healthiest, and most delicious option. Make the best grilled butternut squash with these simple tips:

• Use sharp tools: Butternut squash can be hard to prep because of its notoriously tough skin. Use a sharp peeler to remove the skin, and grab your best kitchen knife to slice it into pieces.
• Cut evenly: Slice the squash into uniform pieces, no thicker than ½ inch, so they all cook roughly at the same time.
• Cook at the right temperature: Turn on your gas grill and preheat it to medium-high heat. This will help you achieve the ideal char and tenderness without burning the slices.

How to Grill Butternut Squash

Grilling butternut squash is super easy! Here's a quick breakdown of how to do it:

1. Preheat the grill

Get it going to medium-high heat so you can grill the squash evenly.

2. Prepare the squash

Peel the squash (or leave the skin if you prefer), cut off the ends, and slice it into even pieces. Scoop out the seeds if needed.

3. Season the squash

Brush both sides of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with the chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

4. Grill the squash

Place the slices on the grill and cook until tender, flipping halfway through.

Pro tip: The squash is done when it's tender and easily pierced with a fork or knife. It should have nice grill marks and a slight char on both sides, which adds to the flavor. Keep an eye on it, as grilling time can vary based on thickness and grill heat.

Seasoning Ideas for Grilled Butternut Squash

If you want to get a little bit adventurous with seasoning your grilled butternut squash, here are some excellent options for you:

• Sweet: A mix of brown sugar, pine nuts, orange zest, and extra virgin olive oil gives the squash some sweet fall flavors you are sure to adore.
• Garlicky: Combine olive oil and garlic with the butternut squash to give it a fantastic umami flavor. You can use fresh, but I recommend using garlic powder or garlic salt instead, as it will be easier to distribute the flavor that way.
• Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the recipe to give the grilled squash a little bit of a kick. It also helps to enhance the gorgeous orange color of the butternut squash.
• Unique flavors: Sprinkle with cumin, rosemary, and nutmeg to go on a flavor adventure that has an earthy, autumnal flavor with a little bit of a kick. Chopped sage leaves and thyme are also great herbs to pair with butternut squash, especially during the fall and winter seasons!

Serving Ideas for Grilled Squash

Butternut squash is a versatile vegetable that goes well with many main dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy this grilled squash:

• Argentinian twist: Spread some chimichurri sauce, either store-bought or homemade, on top of the squash. Make this grilled sirloin steak recipe for a complete meal as well.
• Sweet treat: Top your grilled butternut squash with maple syrup and pecans to turn them into a bit of a sweet treat.
• Grilled butternut squash soup: While most butternut squash soup recipes call for roasted squash, you can absolutely do it with grilled butternut squash too! Add the grilled squash to 3 cups of broth, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of sautéed shallots, 4 cloves of garlic, 2 tsp of nutmeg, and 2 tsp of maple syrup. Blend everything with an immersion blender.
• Veggie tacos: We love making grilled vegetable tacos with butternut squash, spicy red salsa, and queso fresco.
• Protein: Butternut squash is a great veggie side to serve with your favorite protein options like lemon paprika chicken thighs, cilantro lime salmon, grilled pork chops, and even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Salads: I love chopping up leftover grilled butternut squash and adding to a celery salad for a bit of smoky flavor and some extra fiber! You can also swap the roasted butternut squash for grilled in this roasted butternut squash salad!
• Pasta: Add some chopped grilled butternut squash into this roasted vegetable pasta for a smoky twist!

How to Store and Reheat Butternut Squash

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back on the grill for a couple of minutes on each side to get the exterior crispy again. You can also warm it in the oven or on the stovetop.

Leftover idea: Chop leftover squash and add it to tacos, salads, or pasta dishes!