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Roasted Acorn Squash is super easy and really healthy. You only need 5 ingredients for this flavor packed side dish.
Everyone will enjoy this healthy acorn squash recipe. You will be surprised how much flavor it has and you don’t need much at all to prepare it. It is one of our favorite quick and easy side dishes.
Once you try it, you will love it. It has the best flavor and your kitchen will smell great as it cooks. Also try Oven Roasted Squash, Squash Casserole, Baked Butternut Squash or Roasted Zucchini and Squash.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Baked acorn squash is so fast and easy. I love that I can serve my family healthy meals and not spend all day in the kitchen.
Cooking acorn squash is not difficult at all and budget friendly. I try to buy acorn squash when it goes on sale and it keeps my grocery budget in check.
Ingredients
- Whole Acorn Squash – Cut in half and seeds removed
- Butter – We used unsalted butter
- Brown Sugar – If you are out check out these The Best Brown Sugar Substitutes
- Maple Syrup – You can also use honey
Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.
Additions and Variations Ideas
- Savory Taste – If you prefer your squash more savory than sweet, use olive oil instead of butter. Also, omit the brown sugar and maple syrup. Add pepper to taste.
- Toppings – Serve this Acorn Squash with a variety of toppings for added flavor. Quinoa, wild rice, cranberries, and walnuts just to name a few.
- Spices – You can easily change the spices to add flavor to this winter squash. Cayenne Pepper, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, thyme, oregano or any fresh herbs would be a great addition.
How to Roast Acorn Squash
- Step 1 – Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut squash in half and clean out seeds with a large spoon.
- Step 2 – Place on baking sheet pan flesh side up. Sprinkle with salt.
- Step 3 – Add about ½ tablespoon butter to each half in the center of the squash. Add ½ tablespoon brown sugar to each half on top of the butter.
- Step 4 – Drizzle with maple syrup. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden and tender.
- Step 5 – Serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Prepare Acorn Squash – You will need a sharp chef’s knife to cut through the squash. Make sure to clean all the seeds out and the inside so that it will easily cook. You can leave the stem on the acorn.
- Baking Sheet – For easy cleanup we like to line our baking sheet with parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions
I like to keep it simple and serve it with an easy protein dish. Our favorites include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can eat the skin of a roasted acorn squash. It cooks tender and is very tasty but if you prefer you can just eat the inside or peel the skin easily after it has been roasted.
Simply cut the squash down the middle in half with a sharp knife on a cutting board. Once open, remove all the seeds. You can use a large spoon to help scoop it out.
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The leftovers will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a tasty, healthy side dish.
More Side Dish Recipes
Easy Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Easy Side Dishes
Roasted Zucchini and Squash
Quick and Easy Vegetarian
How to Roast Spaghetti Squash
Easy Grilling
Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
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Roasted Acorn Squash
Ingredients
- 2 whole acorn squash cut in half and seeds removed
- 4 tablespoons ½ stick unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar ** see notes
- 2-4 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F
- Cut squash in half and clean out seeds with a large spoon
- Place on baking sheet flesh side up
- Sprinkle with salt
- Add about ½ tablespoon butter to each half in the center of the squash
- Add ½ tablespoon brown sugar to each half on top of the butter
- Drizzle with maple syrup
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden and tender
- Serve immediately