Description
A simple, hands-off roasted acorn squash glazed with maple syrup and warming spices, perfect for busy weeknights and cozy fall dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 large acorn squash (about 2 pounds / 900g)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half from stem to tip. Scoop out seeds and stringy bits. Slice each half into 1-inch thick half-moons.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until smooth and glossy.
- Add squash slices to the bowl and gently toss until evenly coated with the glaze. Add fresh herbs or nuts now if desired, or reserve nuts for later.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Spread squash slices in a single layer, cut side up, leaving space between slices. Pour any leftover glaze over the top.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping slices halfway through to caramelize both sides.
- Five minutes before done, sprinkle toasted nuts on top if using and return to oven to toast lightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Do not crowd the pan to avoid steaming. Flip slices gently and only once. Use real maple syrup for best flavor and caramelization. Toast nuts separately to prevent burning. Can be made vegan by substituting butter with coconut oil or plant-based spread. Leftovers keep up to 4 days refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to restore glaze texture. Not recommended to freeze.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 3.5
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 1
Keywords: acorn squash, maple glazed, roasted squash, fall recipe, easy side dish, weeknight dinner, maple syrup, autumn, healthy side