Description
This Oven Roasted Acorn Squash recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the naturally sweet and nutty flavor of acorn squash. Roasted to tender perfection with butter, brown sugar, and a hint of maple syrup, this dish is a perfect side for any comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 Acorn Squash
- 4 Tablespoons Butter
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for spraying or brushing)
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cut and Clean the Squash: Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds and stringy pulp from the center.
- Oil the Squash: Lightly spray the inside of each squash half with olive oil using a misto or brush it on with a basting brush to help the flavors adhere and promote even roasting.
- Add Butter: Place 2 tablespoons of butter into the hollowed center of each acorn squash half, allowing it to melt and infuse the squash with richness during roasting.
- Sweeten the Squash: Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of brown sugar evenly over the buttered center of each squash half to enhance the natural sweetness.
- Drizzle with Maple Syrup: Lightly drizzle each squash half with maple syrup, adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Roast the Squash: Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) and roast the squash for 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the flesh; it should be tender and easily pierced.
- Serve: Remove the squash from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm as a comforting side dish or a delicious vegetarian main.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup to suit your desired sweetness level.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.
- Roasting time may vary slightly depending on the size of the squash; larger ones may need an additional 5-10 minutes.
- The olive oil helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Seeded acorn squash seeds can be cleaned, roasted, and salted separately for a nutritious snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 acorn squash half
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: acorn squash recipe, roasted acorn squash, easy vegetable side dish, fall recipes, roasted squash with brown sugar
