Butternut Squash, Spinach & Corn Quesadillas
There’s something about a snow day that calls for comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of effort. In between sledding, skiing, or just being outside in the cold, this is the kind of dinner that hits just right—warm, cozy, and easy enough to pull together without much thought.
These butternut squash quesadillas are one of those meals that feels both nourishing and comforting. Roasted squash gets lightly mashed and mixed with sweet corn, wilted spinach, and warm spices, then folded into tortillas with melty vegan cheese and crisped until golden. They’re kid-friendly, adult-approved, and perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without a big production.
Simple ingredients. Cozy flavors. Exactly what you want waiting when everyone comes back inside.
Ingredients
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ cup corn (fresh or frozen, thawed)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Shredded vegan cheese (I love using Violife for its meltiness
Flour tortillas
Optional for serving: avocado slices, guacamole, vegan sour cream, salsa
Instructions
1. Roast the butternut squash
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Mash the filling
Transfer the roasted squash to a bowl and lightly mash with a fork. You want it mostly creamy with a little texture.
3. Add the veggies
Stir in the corn and garlic powder. In a skillet, quickly sauté the spinach just until wilted, then fold it into the squash mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the quesadillas
Lay out a tortilla and spread a generous layer of the squash mixture on one half. Sprinkle with shredded vegan cheese and fold the tortilla over.
5. Cook until golden
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook each quesadilla for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Slice and serve
Cut into wedges and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Serving Notes
Keep them simple and plain for kids
Add avocado, guacamole, or a drizzle of crema for adults
These are perfect alongside a simple green salad or a mug of soup on extra-cold days
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cozy and comforting without feeling heavy
Naturally plant-based and easy to customize
Perfect for snow days, winter weekends, or any busy weeknight
This is one of those recipes that quickly becomes part of the winter rotation—easy, reliable, and exactly what you want when it’s cold outside.
