Ready to learn how to cut a butternut squash?
Butternut squash is super versatile and can be used in so many different ways. You can buy it pre-cut in the store but it will be more fresh and it’s more economical to just do it yourself. And, it’s easy!
Below are step by step photos and instructions to help guide you:

Butternut squash is almost as popular as pumpkin during the Fall and Winter. It takes about 3 minutes to prep it and you are ready to go!
There are so many fun recipes you can make once you have it peeled and cut. Use this method to prepare the squash for everything from soups to simple roasting. Adding to salads is an easy way to turn a simple side salad into a meal.
One of our favorite recipes for sliced squash is Roasted Butternut Squash with Pomegranate

How to cut a butternut squash:
- This guide will make sure you safely cut the squash
- Step 1 and 2: Because the shape is odd, cut the stems off on both ends to begin
- Step 3 – Cut in two equal pieces and lay the squash flat on each end to safely cut and peel
- Step 4 – Once the squash is peeled (step 4) you will slice it in half again (see step 5)
- Step 6 – Scoop out the seeds and discard them
- Step 7 – Lay the squash quarter flat side down and cut into slices
- Step 8 – Cut the slices into cubes, if desired
Step by step photo guide to prepping butternut squash:
Equipment needed:
- Large cutting board
- large, heavy sharp knife
- A good peeler. I prefer a swivel peeler, but a good Y peeler works equally well.
1. Cut stem off butternut squash 2. Butternut squash – cut off both stems
3. Cut in half & peel butternut squash 4. Butternut squash peeled and cut in half
5. Cut butternut squash in half again 6. Remove butternut squash seeds
7. Butternut squash sliced 8. Cubed butternut squash
Does butternut squash have to be peeled before roasting?
The skin on butternut squash is very tough so it should be peeled before you can eat the squash. There are some who like to eat the skin once it is roasted but most prefer the squash peeled.
Can you prep and peel the squash ahead of time?
Yes! You can peel, prep and cut the squash up to 3 days in advance. Once prepped just store in a airtight bag or container in the refrigerator.
One of the most popular ways to use cubed squash is in Butternut Squash Soup. Ours is garnished with pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries and makes the perfect starter, light lunch or dinner.

How to Cut a Butternut Squash
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash
Instructions
- Cut stem off butternut squash on both ends
- Cut in half & peel entire butternut squash
- Cut butternut squash in half again
- Remove seeds by scooping them out with a spoon. Discard seeds
- Lay the squash quarters flat side down and cut into slicesĀ
- If desired, then cut into cubes