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As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than the warmth of a freshly baked dish. January is the perfect time to embrace the earthy, rich flavors of gourds.
Whether you’re a fan of butternut squash, pumpkin, or acorn squash, these versatile vegetables can be transformed into mouthwatering baked dishes that will fill your home with delightful aromas.
With their natural sweetness, rich texture, and ability to pair well with a variety of spices, gourds are an excellent ingredient for the cold winter months.
In this collection of 45+ January baked gourd recipes, you’ll find everything from savory casseroles to sweet desserts, ensuring there’s something for every taste and occasion.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to explore a world of deliciously baked gourd recipes perfect for your January meals.
45+ Delicious January Baked Gourd Recipes to Try This Winter
Baked gourd recipes are a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of winter, offering warmth and comfort with every bite. From hearty sides to indulgent desserts, these 45+ recipes provide endless possibilities to experiment with different gourds and flavors.
The versatility of gourds allows them to shine in both sweet and savory dishes, making them an ideal choice for any meal.
So, next time you’re planning a winter gathering or simply craving a cozy dinner, look no further than these delightful baked gourd recipes.
With each dish, you’ll discover new ways to enjoy these seasonal vegetables and create comforting meals that will make your January a little brighter.
Baked Honey Glazed Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and low-carb alternative to pasta that shines in this baked dish. The natural sweetness of the squash is beautifully complemented by a honey glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Perfect as a light entrée or a side dish, this recipe brings cozy flavors to your January table.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the flesh of the squash halves and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40 minutes or until the flesh is tender and easily separates into strands.
- Glaze: In a small bowl, mix honey and cinnamon. Flip the baked squash halves over and drizzle the glaze onto the flesh. Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes.
- Serve: Scrape the flesh with a fork to create spaghetti-like strands. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Baked Honey Glazed Spaghetti Squash is a light yet satisfying dish that showcases the natural sweetness of winter produce. It’s a simple recipe that proves healthy eating can be indulgent and flavorful.
Cheesy Stuffed Butternut Squash
This Cheesy Stuffed Butternut Squash is a show-stopper for any January meal. With its creamy texture and savory filling, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Packed with spinach, garlic, and a cheesy blend, this dish is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place the halves on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Bake the squash for 45 minutes or until tender.
- Prepare the Filling: While the squash is baking, sauté garlic and spinach in a skillet until wilted. Mix with ricotta and mozzarella in a bowl.
- Stuff the Squash: Once the squash is tender, scoop out some flesh to create a cavity for the filling. Mix the scooped squash with the cheese mixture and refill the halves. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake Again: Return the squash to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm.
The Cheesy Stuffed Butternut Squash is a hearty, nutrient-packed dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an ideal addition to your January comfort food menu.
Herb-Crusted Baked Bottle Gourd Rounds
Bottle gourd (also known as calabash or lauki) takes on a deliciously crisp and savory twist in this baked recipe. Coated with a herbaceous crust, these rounds make an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish. Light yet flavorful, they’re a guilt-free indulgence perfect for January.
Ingredients
- 1 medium bottle gourd, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Coating: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Rounds: Dip each bottle gourd round into the beaten egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Place on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Spray the rounds lightly with cooking spray and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Herb-Crusted Baked Bottle Gourd Rounds are an easy and nutritious way to enjoy this humble vegetable. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re a versatile dish that pairs well with any January meal.
Savory Baked Acorn Squash Boats
Acorn squash boats are a stunning and delicious addition to your January table. Stuffed with a savory mix of quinoa, cranberries, and nuts, this recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It’s a filling vegetarian dish that’s perfect for cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Squash: Drizzle olive oil over the acorn squash halves and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
- Prepare Filling: Mix the cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff Squash: Turn the baked squash halves upright and fill them with the quinoa mixture. Sprinkle with cheese if desired.
- Bake Again: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the filling is heated through and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Serve warm as a main dish or hearty side.
Savory Baked Acorn Squash Boats are as delightful to eat as they are to look at. They provide a perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them an elegant centerpiece for your winter meals.
Baked Sweet Dumpling Squash with Maple Butter
Sweet Dumpling Squash is a small, tender variety that becomes irresistible when baked with a maple butter glaze. This dish is simple yet luxurious, offering a natural sweetness that’s perfect for January’s chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 sweet dumpling squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Glaze: Mix melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
- Coat Squash: Brush the squash halves with the maple butter mixture. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized at the edges.
- Serve: Serve warm as a sweet side dish or light dessert.
The Baked Sweet Dumpling Squash with Maple Butter is a comforting and naturally sweet dish that’s ideal for winter nights. Its soft texture and caramelized flavor will leave you craving more.
Baked Zucchini and Gourd Casserole
For a savory and hearty January dish, this Baked Zucchini and Gourd Casserole combines the mild flavors of zucchini and bottle gourd with creamy cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 medium bottle gourd, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer Vegetables: Arrange alternating layers of zucchini and bottle gourd slices in the dish.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a bowl, mix heavy cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour evenly over the vegetables.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.
This Baked Zucchini and Gourd Casserole is the ultimate winter comfort food, offering a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying experience. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with any January meal.
Baked Pumpkin and Chickpea Casserole
This Baked Pumpkin and Chickpea Casserole is a rich, savory, and filling dish perfect for the chilly days of January. The sweetness of roasted pumpkin combines wonderfully with the hearty texture of chickpeas, all coated in a savory sauce with warming spices. It’s a nutritious and comforting meal that works great as a main dish or side.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pumpkin: Toss the cubed pumpkin with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pumpkin roasts, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted pumpkin, chickpeas, cumin, paprika, and turmeric to the skillet. Stir in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pumpkin and chickpea mixture to a baking dish. Top with crumbled feta cheese if using.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
The Baked Pumpkin and Chickpea Casserole is a nourishing, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. The blend of spices, combined with the sweetness of pumpkin and the richness of chickpeas, makes it a perfect dish to enjoy during the colder months.
Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Brown Butter
Delicata squash is known for its sweet flavor and tender skin, making it perfect for roasting. In this recipe, it’s paired with a rich brown butter sauce and crispy sage leaves. It’s a simple yet elegant dish, ideal for warming up your January evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 delicata squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Squash: Slice the delicata squash into half-moons, about 1/2-inch thick. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast Squash: Place the squash slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until tender and golden.
- Brown the Butter: While the squash roasts, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Continue to cook until the butter begins to brown and give off a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes.
- Crisp Sage: Add the fresh sage leaves to the browned butter and cook for 1 minute until crispy.
- Assemble and Serve: Drizzle the brown butter and crispy sage over the roasted squash. Optionally, drizzle with a bit of maple syrup for extra sweetness. Serve warm.
Roasted Delicata Squash with Sage and Brown Butter is a simple yet sophisticated dish. The sweet squash, combined with the rich, nutty brown butter and crispy sage, offers a perfect balance of flavors that makes it a standout side dish for any winter meal.
Baked Gourd and Apple Crumble
This Baked Gourd and Apple Crumble is a heartwarming dessert that blends the earthiness of baked gourd with the sweetness of apples. Topped with a buttery, oat-filled crumble, this dessert is a cozy and satisfying way to end any January meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of gourd (like pumpkin, butternut squash, or acorn squash), peeled and cubed
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix the gourd cubes and apple pieces with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Make Crumble: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, and chopped walnuts (if using). Cut the chilled butter into small pieces and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble Crumble: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the gourd and apple filling. Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crumble is golden brown.
- Serve: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Baked Gourd and Apple Crumble is the perfect winter dessert, combining the comforting flavors of autumn squash and fresh apples. The crunchy crumble topping adds a satisfying texture, making this a treat to look forward to all season long.
Baked Butternut Squash with Brown Sugar and Pecans
Baked Butternut Squash with Brown Sugar and Pecans is a simple yet decadent side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash. The warm, caramelized flavors of brown sugar, cinnamon, and roasted pecans make this dish a perfect match for winter meals, adding both texture and richness.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Squash: Toss the butternut squash cubes with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast Squash: Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
- Add Pecans: After the squash has roasted, sprinkle the pecans over the top and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the nuts to toast and become fragrant.
- Serve: Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite winter main course.
Baked Butternut Squash with Brown Sugar and Pecans is a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and warm flavors. The toasted pecans and caramelized squash create a rich, comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with both savory meats and hearty plant-based meals.
Baked Gourd and Potato Gratin
This Baked Gourd and Potato Gratin is a creamy, cheesy dish that combines two of the best winter vegetables—gourd and potatoes. Layers of thinly sliced gourd and potatoes are smothered in a rich cream sauce, topped with melted cheese, and baked to golden perfection. It’s an indulgent side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gourd (like pumpkin or butternut squash), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Layer Vegetables: Layer the sliced gourd and potatoes alternately in the baking dish. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the top.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese over the top of the layered vegetables.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving warm as a comforting side dish.
Baked Gourd and Potato Gratin is a luxurious and creamy dish that combines the sweetness of gourd with the comforting texture of potatoes. The gooey cheese and aromatic herbs elevate this gratin to a true winter favorite, perfect for festive occasions or cozy dinners.
Baked Spaghetti Squash with Tomato and Basil
Baked Spaghetti Squash with Tomato and Basil is a light yet satisfying dish that showcases the mild flavor of spaghetti squash. The squash strands are tossed with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of olive oil, creating a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Squash: Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.
- Prepare Sauce: While the squash bakes, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and the remaining olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Shred Squash: Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to gently scrape the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands.
- Combine: Toss the squash strands with the tomato and basil mixture.
- Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm as a light main or side dish.
Baked Spaghetti Squash with Tomato and Basil is a refreshing, healthy dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the squash. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic makes this a perfect light meal for the colder months.
Baked Acorn Squash with Honey and Cinnamon
Baked Acorn Squash with Honey and Cinnamon is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that highlights the natural sweetness of acorn squash. Roasted to perfection and drizzled with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this dish is a wonderful addition to any winter meal, offering a balance of earthy and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Squash: Drizzle the halved acorn squashes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on the baking sheet.
- Roast Squash: Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Prepare Glaze: While the squash roasts, mix the honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
- Finish Squash: Once the squash is roasted, flip the halves over and drizzle the honey-cinnamon mixture over the flesh. Return the squash to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve warm as a side dish.
Baked Acorn Squash with Honey and Cinnamon is a simple, comforting dish that brings out the squash’s natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the warming spices. The honey glaze adds a rich, caramelized finish, making this a perfect side dish for fall and winter meals.
Baked Kabocha Squash with Garlic and Parmesan
Baked Kabocha Squash with Garlic and Parmesan is a savory dish that makes the most of the dense, creamy texture of kabocha squash. The squash is roasted with garlic and topped with Parmesan, creating a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender flesh inside. It’s a perfect side for any winter meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium kabocha squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Squash: Toss the cubed kabocha squash with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast Squash: Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is golden and tender.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the squash during the last 5 minutes of roasting, allowing it to melt and form a crispy crust.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a savory side dish.
Baked Kabocha Squash with Garlic and Parmesan is a savory and satisfying dish that transforms the humble squash into a rich, flavorful treat. The garlic and Parmesan create a deliciously crispy topping that perfectly complements the squash’s naturally creamy texture.
Baked Sweet Gourd and Carrot Medley
This Baked Sweet Gourd and Carrot Medley is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish featuring a blend of sweet gourds (such as butternut or pumpkin) and carrots. The vegetables are roasted with a touch of olive oil and a mix of warm spices, resulting in a sweet and savory side dish that’s perfect for any winter meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet gourd (butternut squash or pumpkin), peeled and cubed
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into thick slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Vegetables: Toss the cubed gourd and carrot slices with olive oil, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
- Roast Vegetables: Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- Finish with Maple Syrup: If you like a touch of extra sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a side dish.
Recipe Conclusion
Baked Sweet Gourd and Carrot Medley is a comforting and colorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of the gourd with the earthiness of roasted carrots. The warming spices add depth of flavor, making this an ideal dish for cozy winter meals.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!