Thanksgiving WW Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples: Fall Comfort

Looking for a way to wow your guests this Thanksgiving?

Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples is a side dish that will steal the spotlight from traditional mashed potatoes. Its sweet and savory notes pair beautifully with classic holiday dishes like roasted turkey or glazed ham.

Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of honey for a festive flair that feels just as special as the occasion. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table—without the guilt!

Thanksgiving is about more than just food—it’s about creating memories with loved ones. This Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples is the kind of dish that brings people together and makes every bite feel special.

Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or enjoying an intimate dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new holiday tradition.

Table of Contents

Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)

1. A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory:
   This mashed butternut squash with apples combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of Granny Smith apples. Add a splash of apple cider, and you’ve got a dish that’s flavorful, balanced, and unforgettable.
2. Healthy and WW-Friendly:
   At just 2 WW points per serving, this recipe is as healthy as it is satisfying. It’s low in calories, packed with fiber, and completely guilt-free.
3. Naturally Gluten-Free:
   No substitutions or special ingredients are needed—this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for guests with dietary restrictions.
4. Versatile Enough for Any Occasion:
   Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner or serving it alongside your Thanksgiving feast, this dish fits right in. Plus, it’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
5. A Crowd-Pleasing Twist:
   This isn’t your average mashed side dish! The secret ingredient—a splash of apple cider—adds richness and depth that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

This is a side dish that checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, healthy, and perfect for sharing! 🧡

Ingredients Needed

• Butternut squash: Naturally sweet and creamy.
• Granny Smith apples: Add a tart, fresh contrast.
• Apple cider: Enhances the sweetness and adds depth.
• Unsalted butter: For a touch of creaminess.
• Fresh thyme: Adds an earthy flavor that ties everything together.
• Table salt and black pepper: To enhance and balance the flavors.

How to Make Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples

Here’s a quick overview of how to make this recipe:

Prep: Peel, cube, and prepare the squash and apples.

Cook: Combine squash, apples, cider, and butter in a microwave-safe dish and microwave until tender.

Mash: Mash the cooked ingredients until smooth yet slightly chunky.

Season: Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper for a flavorful finish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerate for Freshness:
   Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for meal prep or quick next-day dinners.
2. Freeze for Later:
   Want to enjoy this dish beyond the fall season? Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to reheat.
3. Refresh the Texture:
   When reheating, add a splash of apple cider or water to bring back its creamy consistency. Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Tips

1. Perfect Pairings:
   Serve this mashed butternut squash alongside roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or pork tenderloin. It also pairs wonderfully with plant-based dishes like lentil loaf or a hearty fall salad.
2. Top It Off:
   For added flair, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a nutty crunch. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey also adds a sweet-savory balance that’s divine.
3. Elevate Holiday Meals:
   This dish is elegant enough to shine on your holiday table—Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. Trust me, it’ll steal the spotlight from the usual mashed potatoes.
4. Enjoy as a Snack:
   Got leftovers? Scoop some into a bowl, warm it up, and enjoy it as a cozy mid-afternoon snack. It’s surprisingly satisfying!

These tips will ensure every bite of your mashed butternut squash with apples is as flavorful as the first! 🧡

Tips and FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mash up to 2 days in advance. Reheat before serving, adding a splash of apple cider if needed.

Can I roast the squash and apples instead of microwaving?

Absolutely. Toss them with a little olive oil and roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes. Mash and season as directed.

What if I don’t have apple cider?

Apple juice or vegetable broth works as a substitute. The flavor will differ slightly but remain delicious.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter alternative or a drizzle of olive oil.

How can I customize this dish?

• Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Use a mix of apple varieties for added complexity.
• Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan for extra richness.

Health Benefits of Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples

This mashed butternut squash apple side dish isn’t just delicious—it’s incredibly healthy, too!

1. Nutrient-Dense:
   Butternut squash is packed with vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, making it a great choice for maintaining overall health.
2. Weight Watchers-Friendly:
   At only 2 WW points per serving, this dish fits perfectly into your plan.
3. Low in Calories:
   A serving is under 100 calories, yet it’s satisfying and flavorful.
4. Kid-Friendly:
   The natural sweetness of the squash and apples makes this dish appealing to picky eaters.

How This Dish Fits into the Weight Watchers Plan

As a longtime Weight Watchers coach, I designed this recipe to be satisfying without sacrificing your health goals. Here’s why it’s perfect for WW:

Low in Points: With only 2 points per serving (based on the WW Blue Plan), you can enjoy this dish guilt-free.

High in Fiber: The fiber content helps keep you full and satisfied.

Customizable: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative or adjust the seasoning to your liking.

More Healthy Side Dish Ideas

• WW Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs
• Garlic Lemon Broccoli Mash
• Zesty Cauliflower Rice with Cilantro
• Balsamic Glazed Carrots

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples—they’ll thank you for it! 🥚✨

Healthy

Thanksgiving WW Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples: Fall Comfort

Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 190  °C Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $  7 Calories: 95 Best Season: Winter, Fall

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Author: Kristy Cook Cooking Method: Mixing Cuisine: American Courses: Healthy, Kid-Friendly, Side Dishes, Weight Watcher Snack, Weight Watchers Recipes Recipe Keys: Kid-Friendly Quick Meals

Description

A comforting mashed butternut squash with apples, seasoned with thyme and apple cider. This WW-friendly dish is the ultimate fall side.

Ingredients

Cook Mode Cooking Mode Disabled

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 20 oz Butternut Squash (Fresh, peeled, and cubed. You can often find pre-cut squash at the grocery store to save time.)

• 2 medium Granny Smith Apples (Peeled, cored, and cut into small pieces. Their tartness balances the dish beautifully.)

• ¹⁄₂ cup Apple Cider (Adds a slight sweetness and richness to the mash.)

• 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Just enough to add creaminess without overwhelming the dish.)

• 1 ¹⁄₂ tsp Fresh Thyme (Chopped finely for a fragrant, earthy touch.)

• ¹⁄₂ tsp Table Salt (Enhances all the flavors.)

• ¹⁄₄ tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground for a mild kick—adjust to taste.)

Instructions

Combine Ingredients:

1. Place the butternut squash, apples, and apple cider in a shallow microwave-safe baking dish or container. Sprinkle the butter evenly on top.

Cook:

1. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leave a small corner vented). Microwave on high for 10–12 minutes or until the squash and apples are tender.

Mash:

1. Using a fork or potato masher, mash the mixture until smooth but slightly chunky, depending on your preferred texture.

Season:

1. Stir in the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve:

1. Spoon into a serving bowl and garnish with additional thyme sprigs, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 95kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 2g4%

Saturated Fat 1g5%

Cholesterol 5mg2%

Sodium 295mg13%

Total Carbohydrate 22g8%

Dietary Fiber 4g16%

Sugars 8g

Protein 1g2%

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Points per serving 2

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

When I first served this Mashed Butternut Squash with Apples, I wasn’t sure how my family would react. My husband, a die-hard mashed potato fan, took one bite and declared it "way better than expected" (high praise from him!). My kids, who are notoriously picky about vegetables, cleaned their plates and even asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was a winner. It’s now one of our fall staples—comforting, healthy, and so easy to make. Every time I whip it up, I’m reminded how food can bring us together, one delicious bite at a time. 🧡

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