50 Brilliant Ways to Use Butternut Squash

Posted by Jenny Potter. Last Updated on September 2, 2019

From creamy butternut squash soups and hearty pastas to tasty tarts, nutritious butternut squash truly shines in these delicious fall recipes. Whether you're looking for a classic baked butternut squash recipe, a creamy mash or a healthy way to enjoy this seasonal staple, these recipes simply can't be beat.

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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Take regular macaroni and cheese to the next level by adding Fall favourites like butternut squash, onions, nutmeg and fresh thyme. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/30-minute-meals/recipe/butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese/17156/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese</a>
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Butternut Squash Lasagna

Giada's lightened-up butternut squash lasagna offers a scrumptious way to get vegetables onto the plate of even the pickiest eaters. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-lasagna/17060/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Butternut Squash Lasagna</a>
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Caramelized Butternut Squash

Cubes of butternut squash are tossed in a coating of melted butter, brown sugar, salt and pepper, before being roasted until tender and glistening. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/caramelized-butternut-squash/19085/" target="_blank">Caramelized Butternut Squash</a>
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Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Cornbread

This sweet butternut squash cornbread is so easy to make; just mix the ingredients together to form the batter and pour it all into a foil-lined slow cooker. Cook on low for a few hours and then enjoy! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-butternut-squash-cornbread/17154/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Cornbread</a>
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Butternut Squash Soup with Fontina Cheese Crostini

There's nothing more satisfying on a cold day than a hot bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, and Giada's interpretation of this fall favourite needs to be tasted to be believed! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-soup-with-fontina-cheese-crostini/17263/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Butternut Squash Soup with Fontina Cheese Crostini</a>
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Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Galette

This vegetarian galette (read: an all-butter pastry filled with roasted butternut squash, onions, sage and goat cheese) is just as satisfying in flavour as it is show-stopping in appearance. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/butternut-squash-goat-cheese-galette/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Galette</a>
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Vegan Wild-Rice-Stuffed Butternut Squash

This impressive autumn dish takes hollowed-out butternut squash and fills it with a mixture of rice, curry powder, cinnamon, cayenne, maple oil, cherries, parsley, sage and chunks of the roasted squash. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-wild-rice-stuffed-butternut-squash/19086/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Vegan Wild-Rice-Stuffed Butternut Squash</a>
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Vegetarian Chili with Butternut Squash

This veggie-filled chili happens to freeze really well, so double up the recipe and save the rest for a rainy day. Just add fresh herbs, cheese and a squeeze of lime to liven it up. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/hearty-vegetarian-chili-with-butternut-squash/33718/" target="_blank">Vegetarian Chili with Butternut Squash</a>
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Butternut Squash Tortellini with Brown Butter Sauce

These cute squash and ricotta-filled tortellini are served with an incredibly fragrant brown butter, sage sauce laced with walnuts and cranberries. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-tortellini-with-brown-butter-sauce/19089/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Butternut Squash Tortellini with Brown Butter Sauce</a>
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Penne with Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese

Sweet butternut squash and creamy goat cheese are tossed with penne and toasted walnuts for a satisfying pasta dish bursting with flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/penne-with-butternut-squash-and-goat-cheese/20380/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Penne with Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese</a>
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Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

Make a delicious soup that tastes like it's been slow simmered with this quick and easy Instant Pot recipe. Start by sauteeing some pancetta in the pot to add depth to the sweet butternut squash, and reserve that crispy pork as a soup topper. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/instant-pot-butternut-squash-soup-5449624" target="_blank">Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup</a>
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Saffron Risotto with Butternut Squash

This risotto's subtle earthy flavour comes from fragrant saffron, which pairs wonderfully with the sweet butternut squash, salty pancetta and Parmesan cheese. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/saffron-risotto-with-butternut-squash/19087/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Saffron Risotto with Butternut Squash</a>
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Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped with Cornbread

Turn vegetarian butternut squash chili into a hearty one-pan meal by topping it with mouthwatering cornmeal cheddar biscuits. Sour cream and pickles are perfect for serving alongside this easy chili recipe. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-skillet-chili-topped-with-cornbread/20474/" target="_blank">Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped with Cornbread</a>
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Butternut Squash & Thyme Tart

A little bit sweet, a little savoury, this tart is a great way to showcase butternut squash, and makes the perfect fall dessert!Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-and-thyme-tart/14860/">Butternut Squash & Thyme Tart</a>
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Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Roasted Vegetables

Hearty, whole wheat spaghetti tossed with sweet roasted butternut squash, carrots and parsnips reaches date-level status with a crumbled blue cheese and crunchy walnut topping. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/whole-wheat-spaghetti-with-roasted-root-vegetables/14863/" target="_blank">Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Roasted Vegetables</a>
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Avocado, Roasted Squash and Black Bean Tacos

Filled with black beans, avocado and butternut squash, these healthy flavour-packed vegetarian tacos are a cinch to make. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/avocado-roasted-squash-and-black-bean-tacos/19821/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado, Roasted Squash and Black Bean Tacos</a>
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Butternut Squash Soup

Ree Drummond's simple butternut squash soup can be made in large batches and frozen for weekday lunches or dinners. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-soup/20641/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Butternut Squash Soup</a>
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Roasted Garlic Vegetable Tart

A seasonal blend of crisp bell peppers, fennel and butternut squash get baked inside a nest of phyllo pastry, garlic and feta cheese in this satisfying vegetarian brunch offering. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-garlic-vegetable-tart/8957/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Roasted Garlic Vegetable Tart</a>
Food Faith Fitness

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Curried Butternut Squash Salad with Apples, Dates and Pecans

This Middle Eastern spin on pasta — hold the noodles — presents vitamin A-loaded butternut squash in a whole new light. Hit with curry, sweet apples, dates and pecans, this salad has all the flavours of fall, but is light enough to enjoy in the warmer months. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/curried-butternut-squash-salad-with-applies-dates-and-pecans/18118/" target="_blank">Curried Butternut Squash Salad with Apples, Dates and Pecans</a>
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Yellow Perch with Butternut Squash Risotto

Purée the butternut squash the day before and suddenly, you’ve halved the amount of labour it takes to make this dish while looking like a rockstar at the stove. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/yellow-perch-with-butternut-squash-risotto/16177/" target="_blank">Yellow Perch with Butternut Squash Risotto</a>
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Ina Garten's Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

McIntosh apples add a sweet note to this savoury squash soup. Serve as a side at your next fall dinner party and enjoy as next-day leftovers for a light lunch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-butternut-squash-and-apple-soup/17350/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Butternut Squash and Apple Soup</a>
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Butternut Squash and Kale Stir Fry

This minimal-ingredient fry from The Pioneer Woman featuring sweet <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/32-brilliant-ways-to-use-butternut-squash/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">butternut squash</a> and nutrient-rich kale is a cinch to pull together and can serve as a side or a main. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-and-kale-stir-fry/15531/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Butternut Squash and Kale Stir Fry</a>
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Butternut Squash Hummus

Jazz up a traditional hummus by adding roasted butternut squash and luscious Greek yogurt. Drizzle with maple syrup before serving alongside toasted pita triangles. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-hummus/20582/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Butternut Squash Hummus</a>
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Butternut Squash Waffles & Gravy

This recipe redefines the waffle, transforming it into a truly indulgent dish. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-waffles-and-gravy/13963/" target="_blank">Butternut Squash Waffles & Gravy</a>
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Squash Soup

This fall soup is sweetened with a touch of honey and spiced with ginger for a comforting meal that's sure to warm you up from the inside, out. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/squash-soup/17366/" target="_blank">Alton Brown's Squash Soup</a>
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Butternut Squash, Apple and Onion Galette with Stilton

This savoury galette is filled with butternut squash, apple and onion then baked until golden. Top with Stilton or your favourite blue cheese, and serve as an appetizer. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-apple-and-onion-galette-with-stilton/19212/" target="_blank">Butternut Squash, Apple and Onion Galette with Stilton</a>
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Light Tart of Butternut Squash and Kale

A lighter take on the classic quiche, yet still completely satisfying. It combines a thyme and lemon-spiked crust with a lush amber filling.  Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/light-tart-of-butternut-squash-and-kale/14890/" target="_blank">Light Tart of Butternut Squash and Kale</a>
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Slow Cooker Maple Butternut Squash

Three simple ingredients make for a unbelievably flavourful side you can set and forget. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/this-slow-cooker-butternut-squash-is-beyond-easy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Slow Cooker Maple Butternut Squash</a></p
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Winter Squash Fettuccine with Crispy Pancetta and Pecorino

Would you ever have thought that butternut squash could make the perfect pasta sauce? The golden gourd adds creaminess to pasta without the heaviness of Alfredo. Paired with Pecorino and smoky pancetta, this is the quintessential winter dinner dish. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/winter-squash-fettuccine-with-crispy-pancetta-and-pecorino/15254/" target="_blank">Winter Squash Fettuccine with Crispy Pancetta and Pecorino</a>
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Curried Squash Soup with Apple and Cheddar Melts

This warming curried squash soup is a satisfying stand-alone dish, but serve it with golden-brown grilled cheese, oozing with cheddar, mango chutney and apples slices, and you've got a real winning meal. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/curried-squash-soup-with-apple-and-cheddar-melts/19090/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rachael Ray's Curried Squash Soup with Apple and Cheddar Melts</a>
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Squash and Ricotta Salad

Fluffy ricotta cheese is combined with savoury pancetta and sweet butternut squash atop a hearty bed of spinach for a fresh and filling spring salad. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/squash-and-ricotta-salad/8959/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Squash and Ricotta Salad</a>
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Rich Vegetarian Cannelloni with Butternut Squash, Pecans and Mascarpone

A rich and sweet vegetarian cannelloni filled with spinach and butternut squash.Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rich-vegetarian-cannelloni-with-butternut-squash-pecans-and-mascarpone/12098/" target="_blank">Rich Vegetarian Cannelloni with Butternut Squash, Pecans and Mascarpone</a>
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Butternut Squash Ravioli

Creamy butternut squash-filled ravioli topped with crispy pancetta and carmelized onions.Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-ravioli/10696/" target="_blank">Butternut Squash Ravioli</a>
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Roasted Squash

Simple roasted butternut squash flavoured with thyme. Get <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beef-and-potatoes-pot-roast/13237/" target="_blank">Laura Calder's Roasted Squash recipe</a>
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Shepherd's Pie with Squashed Potatoes

This classic comfort food variation comes from Janet and Greta Podleski and features a mix of vegetables, lean ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes and butternut squash baked with Parmesan cheese. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/shepherds-pie-with-squashed-potatoes/9157/" target="_blank">Shepherd's Pie with Squashed Potatoes</a>
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Autumn Lasagna with Chicken, Squash and Sage

Warm, cheesy and boasting a filling of chicken and various vegetables, one taste and you'll be hooked.Get <a target="_self" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/autumn-lasagna-with-chicken-squash-and-sage/12805/"> Anna Olson's recipe for Autumn Lasagna with Chicken, Squash and Sage</a>
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Spiced Squash Soup

A wonderfully warm and cozy butternut squash soup, deliciously spiced and served with sauteed asparagus.Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spiced-squash-soup/13063/" target="_blank">Spiced Squash Soup</a>
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Sweet and Savory Butternut Squash Hummus Dip

If you never thought of serving cinnamon and feta together, we don’t blame you. But one bite of this warm dip made with roasted squash, chickpeas and crunchy pepitas will win you over. A little lemon juice and pomegranate seeds bring a burst of brightness to every bite. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-and-savory-butternut-squash-hummus-dip/20285/" target="_blank">Sweet and Savory Butternut Squash Hummus Dip</a>
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Honey Chicken with Crushed Butternut Squash

The addition of lemon juice to your crushed squash perfectly balances out the sweet flavour.Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/honey-chicken-with-crushed-butternut-squash/9150/" target="_blank">Honey Chicken with Crushed Butternut Squash</a>
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Butternut Squash Slaw

Damaris takes coleslaw to a whole new level with her medley of grated butternut squash, dried cherries, fresh parsley and toasted sunflower seeds, all tossed in a combination of maple syrup, oil and sherry vinegar. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-slaw/17713/" target="_blank">Damaris Phillips' Butternut Squash Slaw</a>
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Beef and Butternut Squash Stew

Made with nutrition-packed butternut squash, fresh herbs and budget-friendly stewing beef, this hearty stew also makes for great leftovers. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beef-and-butternut-squash-stew/17520/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Beef and Butternut Squash Stew</a>
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Pickled Squash Marmalade

When having a hearty meat dish such as a succulent beef braise, it often helps to have something tart or acidic to counterbalance the richness. This take on a traditional chutney uses sweet and easy to peel butternut squash as its base, imbuing it with the scent and flavour of citrus and lemongrass. Get the recipe for Anna Olson’s <a href=" http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pickled-squash-marmalade/18996/" target="_blank">Pickled Squash Marmalade</a>
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Squash Gratin

A garlicky butternut squash and Gruyère soufflé is baked then topped with bread crumbs, more cheese, fresh parsley and green onion and broiled until a gorgeous golden crust forms on top. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/squash-gratin/10249/" target="_blank">Squash Gratin</a>
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Cold Kicker Stew

An ultra-healthy stew is just what the doctor ordered come cold and flu season. Flush your system of the bad by putting in a world of good with this stew brimming with celery, onions, garlic, butternut squash and kale. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cold-kicker-stew/14059/" target="_blank">Cold Kicker Stew</a>
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Dressing with Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash

Three traditional holiday sides, roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/simply-delicious-stuffing-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">hearty stuffing</a>, come together to create one epic holiday dish. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/dressing-with-brussels-sprouts-and-butternut-squash/15621/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Dressing with Brussels Sprouts and Squash</a>
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Butternut Squash and Kale Quesadillas

 If you're looking for a tasty, veggie-friendly way to spice up your game day offerings, look no further than this veggie quesadilla packed with butternut squash, kale, Monterey Jack and goat cheese. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butternut-squash-and-kale-quesadillas/15532/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Butternut Squash and Kale Quesadillas</a>
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Slow Cooker Asian-Style Beef Stew

A fragrant slow cooker beef stew with Asian-inspired flavours is a hearty and satisfying meal for any night of the week. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-asian-style-beef-stew/19644/" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Asian-Style Beef Stew</a>
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Roasted Mashed Squash

This simple dish is super creamy and perfectly sweet.Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-squash-puree/9088/">Laura Calder's Roasted Squash Purée </a>
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Ginger Squash Stew, Chickpeas and Challao Stew with Rice

Chickpeas add lean protein to this rich and flavourful veggie stew, that’s chock-full of fragrant ginger, butternut squash, charro and spiced with nutmeg, garam masala and chilies. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ginger-squash-stew-chickpeas-and-challao-stew-with-rice/12969/" target="_blank">Ginger Squash Stew, Chickpeas and Challao Stew with Rice</a>
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Slow Cooker Moroccan Turkey Stew

Butternut squash, golden raisins and dried apricots lend sweet notes to this Moroccan inspired turkey stew, while allspice and chiles add warming undertones. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-moroccan-turkey-stew/17452/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Slow Cooker Moroccan Turkey Stew</a>
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