Easy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Recipe

It's great to have a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes (it's one of the most requested sides in my household). As a mom of two who enjoys preparing quick and nutritious dinners, this crockpot butternut squash recipe is one of my best picks.

With simple ingredients such as butter, brown sugar, and a touch of salt and black pepper, I find that cooking butternut squash in the slow cooker makes it perfectly comforting and lightly sweet! It's so simple that you can customize yours to whatever flavor you prefer. With a few extra steps, you can even transform it into a butternut squash soup.

The squash is cooked in a slow cooker (also called a crockpot), which means less hands-on time. You only have to stir it once or twice during cooking. You can prepare your main dish or help the kids with homework while it cooks. The cooking time is around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, and this includes a quick mashing at the end. I love roasted butternut squash, but this recipe involves so much less work that I often end up choosing this recipe instead. Another recipe that I love is this delicious slow-cooker chicken marinara.

This particular recipe is a household favorite. I first made it for Thanksgiving when my kids were 5 and 3, and since then, it has become a regular staple all fall long. It's easier than roasting a whole butternut squash in the oven, and the slow cook method really brings out the vegetable's natural sweetness. I even serve this at holiday gatherings outside of Thanksgiving, and it's an easy side dish to prepare for potlucks! I just adjust the sweetness for different preferences. It's nutrient-rich and a hit with both adults and kids!

With easy prep and hands-off cooking time, you can prepare this butternut squash with minimal effort! An excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday meals, perfect for busy moms! Simply peel and cube the squash on a cutting board, place it in the crock, cover and cook. You can even freeze butternut squash and prepare it this way for future meals.

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Start by peeling the butternut squash. Use a sharp vegetable peeler or a knife to remove all the skin. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Then, cut the squash into cubes. Don't worry if they're not perfectly uniform - they'll all cook down and be mashed later. This is the easiest way to cook butternut squash in the slow cooker.

Season the Squash

Place the butternut squash cubes in your slow cooker. Add the butter (cut into small pieces for even distribution), brown sugar, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, you can include chili powder or use vegetable broth instead of water. Pour the liquid over everything. This will create steam and help the squash cook evenly.

Cook the Squash

Cover and cook the squash in the crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your squash cubes. It's done when the squash is soft and very tender and can be easily mashed with a fork. This slow cooker recipe is much easier than trying to roast the squash in the oven.

Mash and Season

Once the squash is cooked, use a potato masher or a large fork to mash it right in the slow cooker. Stir well to incorporate all the seasonings evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or brown sugar to suit your taste.

Serve

Your slow cooker butternut squash is now ready to serve! You can keep it warm in the slow cooker until you're ready to eat. Serve it as is, or add some extra toppings for variety. This recipe is great for those who love butternut squash but want an easy preparation method.

Storage

To store cooked squash, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze butternut squash, place cooled squash in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen squash can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it seems dry.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Butternut Squash

This great side recipe for slow-cooker butternut squash is perfect for customization! Feel free to use different spices to create new versions of this dish. For example, I love using mashed squash to make butternut squash mac and cheese or even a cozy butternut squash soup.

It pairs wonderfully with mains like Cajun-Style Baked Turkey Breast with Vegetables, Chicken with Dates Casserole, or One-Pot Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes Casserole.

For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside Creamy Vegan Pasta Bake or a light side like Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts or Roast Air Fryer Asparagus. Pair it with baked chicken breasts and a crisp green salad for a simple weeknight dinner. Try it alongside Easy Sautéed Lion’s Mane Mushrooms for an elevated twist.

More Casseroles

If you're looking for more comforting casseroles, don’t miss the Creamy Leek and Mushroom Pasta Bake, Cheesy Cabbage Casserole, or Salmon Casserole with Cauliflower. Unique options like the Breakfast Baked Rutabaga Casserole or Easy Moussaka are worth trying. This healthy recipe for slow-cooker butternut squash is versatile and sure to become a favorite!