Acorn Squash - Baked
Sweet and savory baked acorn squash with butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg offers cozy fall flavors perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cut the acorn squash into halves crosswise and brush the cut surfaces with melted butter.
- Sprinkle each squash half with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Arrange the squash halves, cut sides down, in a baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Turn the squash halves with cut sides up and brush with a mixture of melted butter and corn syrup.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes, optionally sprinkling with nutmeg or cinnamon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a drizzle of maple syrup in place of corn syrup, or use brown sugar for a caramelized touch. Ensure the acorn squash is ripe with a firm, smooth skin for the best results. If you prefer a spicier note, mix a pinch of ginger with the nutmeg and cinnamon before sprinkling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked acorn squash as a flavorful side dish alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Skillet Beef or Aunt Helen'S Stuffed Baked Potatoes for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash halves in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Acorn Squash - Baked contains roughly 226 calories, with 1g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute acorn squash with other winter squashes like butternut or delicata. Just adjust the baking time as needed, since different squashes may have varying cooking times.
How do I know when the squash is fully cooked?
The squash is done when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. If you prefer a softer texture, you can extend the baking time slightly, checking for doneness periodically.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the squash and bake it, then store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving. For optimal taste, bake it fresh, but pre-baked squash will still be delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).