Butternut Pumpkin Mash with Roasted Pork Belly Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something undeniably comforting about a home-cooked meal, especially when it features the delightful pairing of crispy roasted pork belly and creamy butternut pumpkin mash. This dish takes me back to cozy family gatherings where laughter mingles with the savory aroma wafting from the kitchen. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast: the rich, crunchy pork belly complemented by the velvety pumpkin mash, creating a symphony of flavors that are both unpretentious and utterly satisfying.

As the weather cools down, there s no better way to celebrate the season than by savoring seasonal vegetables like butternut pumpkin and serving them alongside a richly flavored mustard butter sauce. Whether you re looking to impress at a family dinner or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe not only brings warmth to your table but also invites conversation and connection. Let s dive into this delightful culinary adventure that s sure to become a cherished favorite.

Why Love Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly?

Comforting Dish: This recipe combines the crispy, indulgent taste of roasted pork belly with the creamy sweetness of butternut pumpkin mash, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
Bursting with Flavor: The addition of mustard butter sauce elevates the whole dish, giving it a tangy kick that keeps your taste buds dancing.
Seasonal Ingredients: Featuring fresh butternut pumpkin and Brussels sprouts, it celebrates the essence of seasonal cooking.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, it s a dish that everyone will love and remember.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you ll be serving up a restaurant-quality meal in no time!

Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly Ingredients

For the Pork Belly
Pork Belly Choose high-quality, well-marbled pork for maximum flavor and texture.
Olive Oil Helps to achieve the perfect crisp on the pork; any cooking oil can be used as a substitute.
Salt Enhances the natural flavors; use sea salt for the best results.

For the Butternut Pumpkin Mash
Butternut Pumpkin Provides natural sweetness; can be swapped with sweet potato for a different flavor profile.
Garlic Cloves Roasted to add depth; whole cloves work best for roasting.
Sage Fresh is preferred for herbal notes, but dried sage will suffice.
Salted Butter Richness for the mash; unsalted butter can be used if you are controlling sodium levels.
Parmesan Cheese Adds creaminess and umami to the mash; substitute with a vegetarian hard cheese if preferred.

For the Mustard Butter Sauce
Flour Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce; gluten-free flour works as a great alternative.
White Wine Infuses depth and acidity; vegetable stock may replace it for a non-alcoholic version.
Dijon Mustard Provides a zesty kick; yellow mustard can be used as a substitute if you prefer a milder mustard flavor.
Chicken Stock Serves as a base for the sauce; feel free to use vegetable stock for a lighter option.

For the Vegetable Side
Brussels Sprouts Adds a beautiful crunch and complements the meal; consider green beans as a tasty alternate.
Olive Oil Used for cooking and sautéing; any other cooking oil can also do the job.

This gathering of ingredients for Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly ensures a truly enjoyable meal, perfect for cozy evenings spent with family and friends!

How to Make Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly

1. Prep Pork Belly: Preheat your oven to 220 °C (200 °C fan-forced). Score the skin of the pork belly, rub it generously with olive oil and salt, then roast for 60-75 minutes until beautifully cooked through and crisp. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to keep those juices flowing.

2. Roast Pumpkin: Preheat your oven once more, this time to 200 °C (180 °C fan-forced). Lay the butternut pumpkin on a lined baking tray, surround it with whole garlic cloves and fresh sage. Dot with 50g of butter, season lightly, and bake for 30-35 minutes until tender and fragrant.

3. Mash Preparation: Grab your food processor and blend the roasted pumpkin mixture with roasted garlic, parmesan, a bit of the remaining butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy; keep it warm on a low flame.

4. Mustard Butter Sauce: In a saucepan, melt half the butter, toss in chopped garlic, and sauté for around a minute. Stir in the flour, gradually whisk in the white wine and chicken stock, and let it simmer until reduced. Slowly add the rest of the butter and whisk in the Dijon mustard for a zesty finish.

5. Brussels Sprouts: Heat a splash of olive oil with the remaining butter, add the Brussels sprouts, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until they re golden brown. Toss with a little water until tender but still crisp.

6. Serve: On a plate, create a cozy bed with the creamy pumpkin mash, place slices of the crispy pork belly on top, and drizzle generously with the mustard butter sauce to bring it all together.

Optional: Garnish with fresh sage leaves for a touch of elegance.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of this comforting dish.

• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy crunch complements the rich pork and creamy mash beautifully, bringing brightness to your plate.

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the mustard butter sauce, adding a wonderfully rustic touch.

• Tangy Apple Salad: The freshness of crisp apples tossed with arugula and a light vinaigrette contrasts with the hearty flavors, refreshing your palate.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs splendidly with the savory pork and creamy mash, adding vibrant color to your meal.

• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of seasonal root veggies brings a depth of flavor and texture, enhancing the rustic charm of your dinner.

• Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay provides a fruity, crisp balance, making it a perfect match for the richness of the pork belly and the sweetness of the pumpkin mash.

• Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your meal with a velvety chocolate mousse, offering a luxurious dessert that perfectly balances the savory starter.

Make Ahead Options

These Butternut Pumpkin Mash with Roasted Pork Belly components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner with ease! You can roast the pork belly and pumpkin up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool before refrigerating in airtight containers to maintain their delicious qualities. The pumpkin mash can also be prepared ahead of time and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge reheat gently to avoid losing that creamy texture. When you re ready to serve, just slice the pork belly and warm the mash. Top it with the fresh mustard butter sauce for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights so much simpler!

Butternut Pumpkin Mash Variations

Customize your dish while indulging in the warm, comforting flavors of your butternut pumpkin mash.

• Nutmeg Infusion: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the mash for a warm, earthy aroma that complements the pumpkin beautifully. A little goes a long way, enhancing the cozy feel of your dish.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a fiery delight that offsets the creaminess. It s perfect for those who like a little heat!
• Creamy Addition: Replace some of the butter with cream or Greek yogurt for an even richer, velvety texture, taking your mash to the next level. The result is luscious and satisfying.
• Herb Blends: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the mash, adding layers of flavor that elevate your dish. These aromatic herbs bring a garden-fresh brightness to each bite.
• Savory Cheese: Swap out parmesan for goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the pumpkin. It ll offer a delightful contrast that will make your taste buds sing.
• Colorful Veggies: Mix in roasted carrots or sweet potatoes along with the pumpkin; the vibrant colors and flavors boost the visual and aromatic appeal of your mash. This blend creates a beautiful display that s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts on top before serving for added texture and a nutty crunch that enhances your dish. This simple touch adds interest and a satisfying bite.
• Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon or orange juice to the mash for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, brightening your dish beautifully. This citrusy note can turn your comfort food into a light, start-of-spring celebration.

Storage Tips for Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to keep the pumpkin mash longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; pork belly is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen too.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the mash and pork belly in a microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the mash creamy.

Separation: If storing separately, it s best to keep the mustard butter sauce in a separate container to preserve its consistency and flavor until serving.

Expert Tips for Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly

Rest the Pork: Always rest the pork belly after roasting to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring optimum tenderness and flavor.

Perfect Mash: Use a food processor for a silky pumpkin mash; blend just until smooth to avoid a gummy texture from over-processing.

Gentle Simmer: Ensure the mustard butter sauce simmers gently. This prevents burning and allows for the right consistency without clumping.

Seasonal Swaps: Don t hesitate to substitute seasonal vegetables; if Brussels sprouts aren t available, green beans make a delicious alternative.

Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality, well-marbled pork belly and freshly sourced pumpkin for the best flavor in your Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly.

Butternut Pumpkin Mash With Roasted Pork Belly Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best butternut pumpkin for the mash?
Absolutely! Look for butternut pumpkins that feel heavy for their size, with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as these can indicate overripeness. A good pumpkin should be firm and have a deep, rich color.

What s the best way to store leftovers from this dish?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pork belly cool down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. If you want to enjoy the mash longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the pork belly and pumpkin mash? How do I do it?
Of course! To freeze the butternut pumpkin mash, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Label and date it before placing it in the freezer; it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. For the pork belly, it s best enjoyed fresh but if necessary, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing, ensuring to consume it within 2 months for optimal taste.

How can I prevent the pumpkin mash from becoming gummy?
Absolutely! To avoid a gummy texture, be cautious not to over-process the pumpkin. When you ve roasted your pumpkin, use a food processor or a potato masher, and blend until just smooth this usually takes about 30 seconds. If you find it too thick, you can add a bit of extra butter or a splash of cream to adjust its consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! This recipe includes pork belly, which is not suitable for vegetarians or anyone with pork allergies. You can easily substitute the pork belly with chicken thighs or tofu for a lighter, plant-based option. Additionally, be mindful of the dairy in the butter and parmesan, as they might affect those with lactose intolerance; using dairy-free substitutes can create a similar creamy texture.

What s a good alternative if I can t find Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! If Brussels sprouts aren t available, green beans make a delightful substitute. Simply sauté them in olive oil until they re bright green and tender-crisp, or try using baby carrots for a sweet crunch!