Baked Acorn Squash With Apples
A comforting baked acorn squash filled with sweet apples, seasoned with nutmeg and brown sugar, perfect for a cozy autumn meal or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (moderate oven).
- Cut the acorn squashes in halves and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the squash halves in a baking dish.
- Fill the centers of the squash with chopped apples.
- Pour a little water into the baking dish.
- Cover the dish and bake for about 30 minutes or until partly done.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with salt, brown sugar, and nutmeg.
- Dot the stuffed squash with fat (such as butter or margarine).
- Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until the squash is soft.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of maple syrup to the apple filling. If you don’t have acorn squash, butternut squash can be a great substitute. You can also use a mix of apples for a more complex flavor profile. If you enjoy nuts, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of sautéed greens or a simple green salad, like Nappa Cabbage Salad(10 To 12 Servings), to balance the sweetness. You can also serve it alongside roasted meats for a hearty meal. For a festive touch, consider drizzling some caramel sauce over the top for added decadence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Acorn Squash With Apples contains roughly 954 calories, with 3g protein, 203g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% 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 prepare the acorn squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the acorn squash and the apple filling a day ahead. Simply scoop out the seeds and fill the squash with apples, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add the seasonings and bake as directed.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
A mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best for this dish. This combination will provide a nice balance of flavors and textures. Avoid overly soft apples, as they may become mushy during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply omit any animal fats and use a plant-based butter substitute. The recipe will still be delicious and maintain its natural sweetness from the apples and sugar.
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).