Can you freeze butternut squash? Yes, and it’s easier than you think. Whether it’s raw, roasted, or puréed, here’s how to prep and freeze it properly.
Tips for freezing butternut squash
Let’s recap a few important tips when it comes to freezing butternut squash:
Blanch the squash before freezing
It might take a bit of effort, but blanching your squash helps to preserve its taste, texture and color. It’s definitely worth the time and effort to blanch before freezing.
Flash freeze the squash
Again, it takes a bit of time and effort, but flash freezing makes the whole process so much easier. It allows you to freeze your squash in smaller portions without it clumping together.
Can you freeze butternut squash?
Yes! Butternut squash freezes really well, whether raw, roasted or puréed. It’s a great way to reduce waste and save time for future meals.
Can you freeze squash without cooking it?
Yes, freezing it raw is the easiest method. However, blanching it first helps preserve texture, color, and flavor during freezing.
What does blanching do?
Blanching stops enzymes that cause flavor and texture loss. It’s not required for safety, but it keeps your frozen squash tasting its best.
Does butternut squash freeze well?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best vegetables to freeze — raw, roasted, or puréed.
Can you refreeze butternut squash?
You can, but texture may suffer. If it's puréed or in soup, refreezing is fine. For best results, freeze in smaller portions to avoid refreezing.
How do you freeze squash without it being mushy?
Blanch it first. This step helps maintain texture after thawing. Also, flash freeze to avoid clumping.
Can you freeze butternut squash with the skin on?
Technically yes, but it’s best to peel and remove seeds first for better texture and convenience when cooking later.
How long can you keep frozen squash?
Use within 4–6 months for best flavor and texture. It can last up to 12 months in airtight freezer containers.
Can you freeze whole butternut squash?
Yes, but it’s not practical. Prepping before freezing saves time and freezer space.
Can you freeze butternut squash puree?
Yes! It freezes exceptionally well. Store it in small containers or ice cube trays for easy single-use portions.
Can you freeze butternut squash noodles?
Yes. Freeze them raw for best texture. After spiralizing, place them in a sealed bag or container.
Can you freeze butternut squash soup?
Yes, and it’s one of the best ways to preserve leftovers. Store it in an airtight container, leaving space for expansion. Try this butternut squash soup recipe — it freezes beautifully.
Can you freeze other types of squash?
Absolutely. Use these same freezing methods for acorn, pumpkin, honeynut, banana squash, and more.
How do you defrost butternut squash?
Add frozen cubes straight to stews or soups, or roast from frozen. To thaw fully, leave in the fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture.
📖 Recipe
How To Freeze Butternut Squash
Do you have plenty of butternut squash you don't know what to do with? Here you will learn how to freeze butternut squash in a few easy steps, giving you different options depending on your situation.
Materials
- Sharp knife
- Baking sheet
- Paper towels
- Ice cube tray
- Plastic wrap
- Freezer bags
- Freezer safe airtight container
Tools
- Saucepan
- Blender
Instructions
How to freeze raw butternut squash
- Remove the stem, skin and seeds with a sharp knife.
- Cut the squash in half, then into small bite-sized chunks.
- Blanch your butternut squash chunks by parboiling them in salted boiling water for around 5 minutes. Drain and immediately plunge the butternut squash chunks into ice-cold water. Drain, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Arrange the pieces onto a baking sheet. Make sure none of the chunks are touching. Cover the tray in foil or plastic wrap film and flash freeze the squash in the freezer for 2–3 hours.
- Remove the baking sheet from the freezer and transfer the chunks into a freezer bag or airtight container. Leave a ½ inch gap at the top to allow the squash to expand when frozen.
- Label the freezer bag or container with contents and date of freezing.
How to freeze cooked butternut squash cubes
- Chop up your butternut squash and roast in the oven.
- Allow them to fully cool at room temperature.
- Once cooled, transfer the squash to freezer bags. Put a few cubes into each bag. This means you can use butternut squash in smaller portions, only using as much as you need each time.
- Label the freezer bag or container with contents and date of freezing and place in the freezer. After 30 minutes, give the bag or container a shake to avoid clumping.
How to freeze cooked butternut squash puree
- Blitz the butternut squash in a blender
- Spoon into an ice cube tray.
- Wrap the tray in cling film and place it in the freezer for 2–3 hours.
- When the cubes are frozen, remove them from the tray and transfer them in a freezer bag or freezer safe container.
- Label the freezer bag or container with contents and date of freezing.
Butternut squash recipes
Make the most of your delicious and healthy squash by buying it in bulk, freezing to extend its lifespan and using these great recipes for inspiration:
- Slimming world butternut squash soup – a slimming and delicious soup
- Butternut squash risotto – wonderfully comforting and very easy to make
- Butternut dauphinoise – creamy, garlicky and utterly delicious
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