Acorn Squash Recipe: Delicious Ways to Enjoy This Fall Favorite

At Bay Baby Produce, we know that the perfect acorn squash recipe brings warmth, flavor, and color to your fall table. With its dark green skin, vibrant orange flesh, and naturally sweet, nutty flavor, acorn squash is one of the most versatile winter squashes you can cook with. 

Whether it’s your first time trying this classic vegetable or you’re searching for an easy recipe to serve at your Thanksgiving table, this guide offers delicious and creative ways to enjoy a seasonal favorite.

The Best Way to Prepare Acorn Squash

Scoop out the stringy bits and soft spots from the center with a large spoon to create clean squash halves. You’ll find cream-colored seeds inside which you can save for roasting later, just like pumpkin seeds.

Once cleaned, place the cut sides of the squash down on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures even roasting and prevents sticking.

Related: Thanksgiving Fruit Tray: Creative Ideas for a Festive Holiday Table

Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe for Perfectly Caramelized Flavor

One of the easiest ways to bring out the natural sweetness of acorn squash is roasting. Here’s an easy baked acorn squash recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 pounds)
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  
  

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  
  

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  
  

• Pinch of salt
  
  

• Black pepper, garlic powder, and/or chili powder for seasoning
  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
   

2. Cut your squash in half and remove the stringy pulp. Place the flesh side up on the pan.
   
   

3. Brush the surface of the squash with a melted butter mixture or olive oil, adding the sugar, salt, and spices.
   
   

4. Use the back of a spoon to spread evenly and score the skin of acorn in a cross-hatch pattern to help steam escape and create a gorgeous caramelized crust.
   
   

5. Roast for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and fork-tender.
   
   

This simple side dish pairs perfectly with pork chops, wild rice, or whole grains for a balanced meal.

Related: How to Cook Acorn Squash: Easy Recipes, Tips, and Serving Ideas

Creative Ways to Serve Acorn Squash

Sweet and Savory Variations

The best part about cooking acorn squash is its versatility. For a sweet dish, mix brown sugar and butter together, letting the sugar melt into the bottom of the pan for a caramelized finish. For a savory flavor, try brushing with a little olive oil, garlic powder, and a hint of black pepper or chili powder.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Don’t have time to roast? You can also cook acorn squash in an air fryer or Instant Pot. In an air fryer, cook thick slices for 15–20 minutes until tender. For the Instant Pot, set to manual pressure for 1–2 minutes, allowing a quick and easy prep for weeknight dinner table meals.

Storage and Freshness Tips

Once cooked, store your leftovers in an airtight container in a dark place or refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain the freshness of your squash, make sure it’s kept in a cool, dry spot before cooking. Uncooked squash should have no soft spots and feel firm to the touch.

If you plan to use acorn squash as part of your holiday table, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it just before serving.

Related: Delicata Squash: What It Is, How to Cook It, and Why It Deserves a Spot on Your Fall Table

Celebrate Fall with Bay Baby Produce

At Bay Baby Produce, we grow our acorn squash with care, ensuring that every harvest delivers premium quality and natural sweetness. Each squash is cultivated in the Pacific Northwest’s rich soil, bringing out that unmistakable flavor and color that make our winter side dish options shine.

So the next time you’re looking for a great way to brighten your Thanksgiving dinner or add warmth to your weeknight dinners, these roasted acorn squash recipes will remind you that the best way to enjoy fall’s harvest is through simple, wholesome, and flavorful dishes.

Related:

• Thanksgiving Fruit Tray: Creative Ideas for a Festive Holiday Table

• How to Cook Acorn Squash: Easy Recipes, Tips, and Serving Ideas

• Delicata Squash: What It Is, How to Cook It, and Why It Deserves a Spot on Your Fall Table