Amazing Butternut Squash Fritters: 2 Ways

Butternut squash fritters have become my go-to for a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal. I remember the first time I tried them at a local farmer’s market – the aroma of toasted squash and spices was intoxicating! They were perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully tender within, unlike any squash dish I’d had before. Now, I whip up these easy butternut squash fritters at home whenever I have a spare squash on hand. They’re so versatile, making them a fantastic appetizer, a light lunch, or even a unique side dish. Get ready to impress yourself (and anyone lucky enough to share them!) – let’s start cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Fritters Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these amazing fritters! They’re simple, delicious, and offer so many benefits:

• Incredibly Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
• Amazingly Flavorful: The natural sweetness of squash pairs perfectly with savory spices.
• Satisfyingly Crispy: Achieve that delightful crunch with minimal effort.
• Quick to Make: These easy butternut squash fritters come together in under an hour.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from the butternut squash.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the taste of homemade butternut squash fritters without all the fuss.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Great for Using Leftovers: Perfect for when you have extra squash on hand.

Ingredients for Easy Butternut Squash Fritters

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step towards making delicious savory butternut squash fritters. The star, of course, is the butternut squash, which lends a natural sweetness and tender texture once cooked. The flour acts as the binder, helping everything hold together, while the eggs are crucial for richness and structure. We’ll also use grated onion for an extra layer of savory flavor, and optional Parmesan cheese can add a delightful salty kick. Don’t forget the essential spices like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to really make these fritters sing!

• 2 cups grated butternut squash – make sure it’s peeled and seeds removed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – this forms the base of our fritter batter
• 2 large eggs – they help bind everything together
• 1/2 cup grated onion – adds a lovely savory depth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – for an extra salty, cheesy punch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – essential for that classic savory flavor
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the fresh onion you grated
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – gives a hint of smoky warmth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of gentle spice
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or cilantro), chopped (optional) – adds freshness and color
• Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying – enough for a thin layer in your skillet

How to Make Butternut Squash Fritters

Let’s get to the fun part – making these delicious fritters! This process is straightforward, and soon you’ll be enjoying your own batch of homemade butternut squash fritters. Following these simple steps will ensure you get perfectly cooked, flavorful fritters every time.

1. Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients. Start by peeling your butternut squash, scooping out the seeds, and then grating it. You’ll also want to grate about half a cup of onion. Having these prepped makes the rest of the process so much smoother.
2. Step 2: Mix the Base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated butternut squash and grated onion. Add the 1 cup all-purpose flour and, if you’re using it, the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a quick stir to start combining.
3. Step 3: Add Eggs. Crack in the 2 large eggs. Mix everything together thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until you have a cohesive batter. It should be thick but scoopable.
4. Step 4: Season the Mixture. Now it’s time to add all those wonderful flavors! Stir in the 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This blend of spices is key to making these savory butternut squash fritters truly irresistible.
5. Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs (Optional). If you’re using them, gently fold in the 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs. This adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh, vibrant taste that complements the squash beautifully.
6. Step 6: Heat the Oil. Pour enough olive oil or vegetable oil into a large skillet to create a thin layer, about 1/4 inch deep. Heat it over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a tiny drop of batter sizzles immediately.
7. Step 7: Form the Fritters. Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the batter. Gently shape each portion into a small patty, about 1/2 inch thick. This is part of how to make butternut squash fritters that are perfectly sized for frying.
8. Step 8: Cook the Fritters. Carefully place the shaped patties into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are a beautiful golden brown and wonderfully crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen will let you know they’re almost ready!
9. Step 9: Drain Excess Oil. Once golden and cooked through, use a spatula to transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect crispy butternut squash fritters.
10. Step 10: Repeat for a Quick Butternut Squash Fritters Batch. Continue forming and frying the remaining batter, adding a little more oil to the skillet as needed between batches to maintain that medium heat. You’ll have a whole batch of these delightful quick butternut squash fritters ready in no time!

Pro Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Fritters

Want to elevate your fritter game? These tips will help you achieve culinary perfection every time you make these delicious vegetable fritters butternut squash.

• Squeeze out moisture: Grating the squash and onion releases water. For the crispiest results, lightly squeeze out excess liquid from both before mixing them into the batter. This is key for achieving that perfect crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying fritters in batches ensures they cook evenly and maintain their crispiness. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy fritters instead of delightfully crisp ones.
• Maintain oil temperature: Medium heat is your friend here. Too low, and they’ll absorb too much oil; too high, and they’ll burn before cooking through.
• Let them rest: After frying, let the fritters drain on paper towels for a minute or two. This helps remove any excess oil, ensuring they stay wonderfully crisp.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy butternut squash fritters?

The real secret lies in managing moisture! Grating the squash and onion and then gently squeezing out excess liquid before mixing is crucial. This simple step ensures your butternut squash fritters recipe fries up beautifully crispy, not soggy.

Can I make butternut squash fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter for these homemade butternut squash fritters up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, I recommend frying them fresh just before serving. You can learn more about food preparation from experts.

How do I avoid common mistakes with squash fritters?

Avoid making them too wet by squeezing out moisture from the grated vegetables. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches to ensure they get nicely golden and crisp, not pale and greasy. For more cooking tips, check out our author’s guides.

Best Ways to Serve Butternut Squash Fritters

These delightful fritters are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways! For a fantastic appetizer, serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy garlic aioli. They also make a wonderful side dish, pairing exceptionally well with roasted chicken or pork. If you’re looking for something a bit more robust, try serving a couple of these spiced butternut squash fritters alongside a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal. Their slightly sweet and savory profile makes them a perfect complement to a variety of main courses. You can find more information on serving suggestions here.

Variations of Butternut Squash Fritters You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you’ll discover that these fritters are incredibly adaptable! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make them your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Fritters: Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. You can often find blends specifically designed for baking that work wonderfully, creating delicious gluten-free butternut squash fritters without sacrificing texture.
• Vegan Butternut Squash Fritters: To make these vegan, you’ll need to substitute the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) for each egg, and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. These vegan fritters are just as tasty!
• Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fritters: For a lighter, crispier take, try your air fryer! Arrange the formed fritters in a single layer in your air fryer basket, lightly spray them with oil, and cook at around 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. These air fryer butternut squash fritters are a game-changer!
• Spiced Sweet Butternut Squash Fritters: Want a sweeter version? Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter. These make a wonderful breakfast treat, almost like a squash pancake!

Frequently Asked Questions About Butternut Squash Fritters

What are butternut squash fritters?

Simply put, butternut squash fritters are savory (or sometimes sweet!) patties made from grated butternut squash, mixed with flour, eggs, and seasonings, then pan-fried until golden and crispy. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy this nutritious winter squash in a fun, bite-sized format. Think of them as a delicious vegetable pancake or a delightful appetizer. For more information on squash nutrition, you can check out our disclaimer.

Why make butternut squash fritters?

There are so many reasons to make these fritters! They’re incredibly versatile, serving as a perfect appetizer, a light lunch, or a tasty side dish. They offer a wonderful way to sneak more vegetables into your diet, and the combination of tender squash with a crispy exterior is simply irresistible. Plus, this butternut squash fritters recipe is quite forgiving and easy to adapt.

Can I use fresh or frozen butternut squash?

While fresh butternut squash is generally preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen if needed. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before grating and incorporating it into the batter. This step is crucial to prevent soggy fritters.

How do I store leftover butternut squash fritters?

Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and regain some crispiness, I recommend placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and warming them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crisped. For more details on food storage, see our privacy policy.

Nutrition Facts for Butternut Squash Fritters

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delightful fritters. Remember, these values can change based on the exact ingredients and how much oil they absorb during cooking.

• Calories: Approximately 100-150 per fritter
• Fat: Varies
• Saturated Fat: Varies
• Protein: Varies
• Carbohydrates: Varies
• Fiber: Varies
• Sugar: Varies
• Sodium: Varies

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and frying method.

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