Acorn squash is a total fall favorite, and this recipe makes it ridiculously easy to enjoy. We have a basic brown sugar cinnamon option as well as more sweet as well as savory options with herbs and spices. It’s an all-in-one recipe! No matter which flavor option you choose, you’ll have perfectly tender, buttery acorn squash that’s the perfect side dish for fall and winter meals.
For more delicious side dishes, try our mouthwatering glazed carrots or Brussels sprouts au gratin.
Why Our Recipe
- Sweet and savory variations with several options in each category!
- Super simple way to get the most buttery tender squash every time.
- Roast as acorn squash halves, or in slices for faster cooking.
You can roast the squash in halves for a traditional look or slice it into smaller pieces for faster cooking. All youโll need are a few key ingredients and your oven, and youโre good to go. You can choose to make them sweet or savoryโฆroasted acorn squash truly is a blank canvas. If youโre sick of serving up the same old sides and ready for some truly delicious acorn squash, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.ย
No Need to Peel
To peel or not to peel? This is one of the most common questions when it comes to learning how to cook acorn squash. Youโll be happy to know that no, you donโt have to peel it! If you want to remove the peel wait until after you’ve roasted the vegetables as the skin will peel off easily.
Cutting Tips
Acorn squash has a tough, ridged exterior and can be a little tricky to cut. Start by trimming off about an inch from the top (stem) and bottom of the squash so it sits flat on your cutting board. This will prevent it from rolling around while you cut.
Because the skin is thick and hard, it’s essential to use a sharp, sturdy chef’s knife. A dull knife can slip, making it more difficult and dangerous to cut.
PRO TIP: If cutting through raw squash feels too difficult, pop the squash in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. This softens the skin slightly and makes slicing through the squash much easier.
Serving Options
Serve as Halves: You can simply place them on plates and let everyone scoop out the tender, buttery flesh. This is a perfect side dish for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.
Slice into Quarters: After roasting, you can slice each half in half again to create wedge-like quarters. This is a great option if you want smaller portions or need to serve more people.
Peel and Mash: For a different texture, remove the peel after roasting and mash the flesh with a fork or potato masher. You can mix in extra butter, herbs, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate leftover roasted acorn squash in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments on high, rotating in between each interval, until heated through.
I love acorn squash, It’s been a long time since I’ve made one. I love watching these videos of you girls. I’ve always done mine with butter like Caitlin did, brown sugar, salt and pepper all at once so I have sweet and savory together. ๐ Give her a try โบ๏ธ
That’s how my MIL taught me how to make acorn squash back in ’74 and I’ve been doing it that way ever since. Delicious!