How Do You Cook Butternut Squash On The Grill

You can cook butternut squash on the grill, and it turns out beautifully tender with a subtle smoky flavor.
 
Grilling is one of the easiest ways to cook butternut squash because the high heat caramelizes the natural sugars.
 
If you’ve been wondering how do you cook butternut squash on the grill, the answer is simpler than you might think.
 
You just need a sharp knife, some oil, seasonings, and a hot grill.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cook butternut squash on the grill, plus tips for perfect results every time.
 
Let’s fire up that grill.
 

How Do You Cook Butternut Squash on the Grill?

You cook butternut squash on the grill by slicing it, seasoning it, and placing it directly on the grates or on foil.
 
The method you choose depends on whether you want char marks, softer texture, or both.
 
Here are the main ways to cook butternut squash on the grill.
 

1. Grilled Butternut Squash Slices

Slicing butternut squash into half-inch planks is the most popular way to cook it on the grill.
 
Brush each slice with olive oil so it doesn’t stick to the grates.
 
Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like.
 
Place the slices directly on a medium-high grill for about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
 
You’ll know they’re done when they have nice grill marks and feel tender when pierced with a fork.
 

2. Grilled Butternut Squash Cubes in Foil

If you want cubes instead of slices, foil packets are your best friend.
 
Toss cubed butternut squash with oil, salt, and pepper.
 
Wrap them loosely in heavy-duty aluminum foil.
 
Cook on the grill over medium heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, shaking the packet occasionally.
 
This method steams the squash while giving it a hint of smokiness.
 

3. Whole Butternut Squash on the Grill

Yes, you can cook a whole butternut squash on the grill, though it takes longer.
 
Prick the skin several times with a fork so steam can escape.
 
Place it on the grill over indirect medium heat and close the lid.
 
Rotate it every 15 minutes or so.
 
It’s ready when the skin is charred in spots and a knife slides in easily, usually 45 to 60 minutes.
 

4. Grilled Butternut Squash Halves

Cutting the squash in half lengthwise is another great option.
 
Scoop out the seeds, brush the flesh with oil, and season generously.
 
Place the halves cut-side down on the grill for 5 to 7 minutes.
 
Then flip them cut-side up and cook another 20 to 30 minutes over indirect heat.
 
This gives you a creamy interior with a nicely caramelized surface.
 

Prepping Butternut Squash for the Grill

Prepping is where most people get stuck, so let’s make it easy.
 

1. Choose the Right Squash

Pick a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, blemish-free skin.
 
A good squash will have a solid, dense feel when you pick it up.
 

2. Peel It or Leave the Skin On

You can leave the skin on if you’re slicing it into planks.
 
The skin becomes tender enough to eat after grilling.
 
If you prefer, peel it with a vegetable peeler before cutting.
 

3. Cut It Safely

Butternut squash is dense, so use a sharp chef’s knife.
 
Cut off the top and bottom ends first to create a flat surface.
 
Then slice it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
 
From there, cut it into slices, cubes, or halves depending on your chosen method.
 

4. Season It Well

Olive oil, salt, and pepper are the basics.
 
But you can also add smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, or fresh rosemary.
 
Butternut squash loves a little sweetness, so a drizzle of maple syrup or brown sugar works wonders too.
 

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Butternut Squash on the Grill

A few simple tips will make your grilled butternut squash turn out perfectly every time.
 

1. Preheat Your Grill

Always preheat the grill to medium-high heat before adding the squash.
 
A hot grill creates those beautiful char marks and prevents sticking.
 

2. Oil the Grates

Even if you oil the squash, oiling the grates adds an extra layer of protection.
 
Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil to wipe the grates right before placing the squash down.
 

3. Don’t Move It Too Soon

Let the squash sit undisturbed for the first few minutes.
 
It will release naturally from the grates once it’s nicely seared.
 

4. Use Indirect Heat for Thicker Pieces

Thick halves or a whole squash need indirect heat so the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
 

5. Check for Doneness

The squash is done when a fork or knife slides in with little resistance.
 
If it’s still firm, give it a few more minutes.
 

So, How Do You Cook Butternut Squash on the Grill?

You cook butternut squash on the grill by slicing or cubing it, seasoning it, and cooking it over medium-high heat until tender.
 
Whether you choose slices, cubes in foil, halves, or a whole squash, the grill brings out a sweet, smoky flavor that’s hard to beat.
 
Just remember to preheat, oil your grates, and be patient.
 
Once you try butternut squash on the grill, it might become your favorite way to cook it.
 
Happy grilling.