Butternut squash fritters are a delightful way to incorporate vegetables into your meals. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, these fritters offer a burst of autumn flavors. I remember the first time I made them — the aroma of cumin and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly making my family curious and hungry. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday appetizer, and it appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, butternut squash fritters are incredibly easy to prepare. Using fresh seasonal ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dish in under 30 minutes. It’s also budget-friendly; squash is often an affordable ingredient, and you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your pantry items.

If you’re looking to impress guests at a brunch or need a healthy snack for the kids, these fritters deliver. They also make for a fantastic side dish to accompany any main course. With the option to use gluten-free flour, this recipe caters to various dietary needs. Overall, it’s a nutritious, easy-to-make dish that can become a staple in your kitchen.

"These fritters were a hit with my family! They loved the crispy outside and the flavorful inside. I made a yogurt dip that complemented them perfectly." — Sarah T.

Step-by-step overview

Making butternut squash fritters is straightforward. You’ll start by prepping the squash and then combine all the ingredients to form a batter. After that, it’s all about shaping and frying until golden brown. In total, the process includes simple steps that invite everyone to get involved in the kitchen, making it a great family activity too!

What you’ll need

Gather these items to create your fritters:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have. For instance, if you prefer a more robust flavor, adding herbs like thyme or rosemary could be interesting!