Acorn Squash Vermont Style
Vermont-style acorn squash features sweet maple glaze, crispy bacon, and buttery richness, perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings with warm, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise.
- Remove seeds and pulp from the squash.
- Place the squash halves cut side down in a baking dish with 1/2-inch of water.
- Bake until tender, approximately 45 minutes.
- Sauté bacon strips until crispy.
- Brush the cooked squash with melted butter, brown sugar, and pure maple syrup.
- Top with the crispy bacon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
When selecting acorn squash, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size. For a twist, you can substitute honey for maple syrup or use coconut oil instead of butter. If you prefer, add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. Make sure to sauté the bacon until it's really crispy, as this adds a delightful texture to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the acorn squash Vermont style as a side dish for roasted meats or grilled fish. It pairs beautifully with Cajun Pork Ribs for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad like Inspiration Salad or a comforting pasta dish such as Mostaccioli Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash halves in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Acorn Squash Vermont Style contains roughly 987 calories, with 4g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 107g fat.
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 prepare the acorn squash in advance?
Yes, you can cut and prepare the squash a day ahead. Store the halves in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to brush the cut surfaces with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Reheat before adding the toppings for best results.
What can I do if I don't have maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, you can substitute it with agave nectar or honey. Both will provide a similar sweetness and flavor profile. Adjust the quantity to your taste, as honey can be sweeter than maple syrup.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon to make this dish vegetarian. For added flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This will still provide a depth of taste without the meat.
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).