Butternut Squash Puff
A creamy, flavorful butternut squash dish with citrus accents, perfect as a side for poultry or festive meals, offering comforting warmth and bright zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and place in a sprayed 1-quart casserole.
- Place the casserole in a pan of hot water.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes or until the center is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of evaporated skim milk. You can also swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative if needed. If you don’t have fresh citrus rinds, bottled lemon or orange zest can work in a pinch. Make sure the butternut squash is well-cooked and mashed to ensure an even bake.
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash puff makes a delightful side dish, especially alongside roasted meats like Glazed Ham With Peaches. It can also serve as a vegetarian main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. Consider garnishing with additional grated citrus rind for an extra pop of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butternut Squash Puff contains roughly 282 calories, with 6g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1821mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh butternut squash. Simply peel, cube, and steam or roast it until tender, then mash it before using in the recipe. This will ensure a fresh flavor and optimal texture in your puff.
Is it possible to freeze the butternut squash puff?
Absolutely! You can freeze the prepared butternut squash puff before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal prep option.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this butternut squash puff dairy-free, substitute the evaporated skim milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Use dairy-free margarine instead of regular margarine. This way, you can enjoy a deliciously creamy dish without the dairy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).