15 Acorn Squash Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Acorn squash is a delicious and versatile winter vegetable that can add warmth to any meal. Many enjoy it for its sweet, nutty flavor and unique shape. Acorn squash is perfect for a variety of recipes, from savory dishes to sweet treats, making it a great option for any occasion.

Incorporating acorn squash into your meals is easy and rewarding. Whether you roast it, stuff it, or blend it into soups, this squash brings comforting flavors to your kitchen. With the right recipes, you can turn this simple vegetable into a standout dish your family will love.

1) Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Glaze

Roasted acorn squash with maple glaze is a simple and delicious side dish. It’s perfect for fall and pairs well with many main courses. The sweetness of the squash combines wonderfully with the rich flavor of maple syrup.

To make this dish, start by halving the acorn squash and scooping out the seeds. Then, brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Next, add a bit of butter and maple syrup into the hollow part of each half.

After that, roast the squash in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes. This will make the squash tender and caramelized.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Halve and seed the acorn squashes.
3. Brush the cut sides with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place butter and maple syrup in the hollow of each squash half.
6. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes until tender.

2) Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage and Fontina

Stuffed acorn squash is not only tasty but also easy to make. The combination of sausage and Fontina cheese offers a wonderful blend of flavors. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering.

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Then, brush the insides with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.

For the filling, cook your sausage until browned. Then, mix in sautéed onions, garlic, and Fontina cheese. Fill each squash half with this mixture, and bake for about 30 minutes until the squash is tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squash
• 1 pound sausage
• 1 cup Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half and remove seeds.
3. Brush insides with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook sausage in a pan until browned.
5. Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
6. Mix in Fontina cheese.
7. Stuff mixture into the squash halves.
8. Bake for 30 minutes until tender.

3) Curried Acorn Squash Soup

Curried acorn squash soup is a warm and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with rich spices. You’ll find it satisfying and simple to make.

To start, roast the acorn squash until tender. This usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). After cooling, scoop out the flesh and blend it with sautéed onions, curry powder, and chicken broth.

For a creamy touch, you can add a bit of coconut milk or cream. Serve this delightful soup hot, possibly topped with cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 3 to 4 teaspoons curry powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cups chicken broth

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the acorn squash, cut-side down, in a baking dish with water.
3. After 20 to 30 minutes, let it cool and then scoop out the flesh.
4. Sauté the onion in butter until soft.
5. Blend the squash with onion, curry powder, and chicken broth until smooth.
6. Heat the mixture until warm and serve.

4) Sweet and Savory Acorn Squash Salad

This Sweet and Savory Acorn Squash Salad is perfect for fall. You’ll enjoy the warmth of roasted acorn squash mixed with fresh ingredients.

Start by roasting acorn squash until it’s tender. You can slice it in half and scoop out the seeds. Then, combine it with kale, pomegranate arils, and nuts for crunch.

The dressing adds a sweet touch. A mix of maple syrup and spices will give your salad a delightful flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 cup pomegranate arils
• 1/2 cup nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix kale, pomegranate arils, and nuts.
5. Whisk together maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad.
6. Once the squash is done, let it cool and scoop out the flesh to mix with the salad. Serve immediately.

5) Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Baked acorn squash with brown sugar and cinnamon is a delightful side dish. The sweet and warm flavors make it a perfect choice for cooler months. You will love how easy it is to prepare.

First, you simply slice the squash in half and remove the seeds. Next, you can mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the squash for a tasty glaze.

Bake the squash in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until it’s tender. This usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. The result is a soft, sweet dish that pairs well with many meals.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
4. Sprinkle the mixture over the squash.
5. Add butter if desired.
6. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until tender.

6) Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Quinoa-stuffed acorn squash is a delicious and nutritious meal. The squash provides a sweet base, while the quinoa filling adds protein and texture. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Start by cutting the acorn squash in half and removing the seeds. Then, brush the inside with a bit of honey for added sweetness. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) until tender, about 40 minutes.

For the filling, cook quinoa in water. You can mix in sautéed onions, celery, and spices for extra flavor. Once the squash is ready, stuff it with the quinoa mixture and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• Olive oil, for sautéing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Brush cut sides with honey and place cut side down on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 40 minutes or until tender.
5. Cook quinoa in water according to package instructions.
6. Sauté onion and celery in olive oil until soft.
7. Mix sautéed veggies with cooked quinoa, season with salt and pepper.
8. Stuff the squash halves with the quinoa mixture.

7) Acorn Squash and Apple Bake

For this delicious Acorn Squash and Apple Bake, you’ll create a warm dish perfect for any meal. Start by cutting the acorn squash in half and scooping out the seeds.

Place the squash in a baking dish with the cut side up. Fill it with fresh apples, some butter, and your choice of seasonings like cinnamon and brown sugar.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the apples are soft. The combination of the sweet apples and savory squash makes a great fall dish.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 cups diced apples
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash in a baking dish with cut side up.
4. Fill each half with diced apples, butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes until tender.

8) Herb-Roasted Acorn Squash

Herb-roasted acorn squash is a simple and delicious side dish. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the squash, balanced with savory herbs. It’s perfect for any meal!

To make it, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. You can leave the skin on, as it becomes tender when roasted.

Next, coat the squash halves with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs, like rosemary or thyme. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Once done, the squash should be fork-tender and golden.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 teaspoons dried herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Coat the squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Place cut side down on a lined baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Enjoy when tender and golden!

9) Acorn Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter

Acorn squash ravioli is a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The warm flavors of acorn squash combined with a buttery sage sauce create a comforting dish.

To start, you need fresh ravioli filled with acorn squash and cheese. Cooking your ravioli is quick and easy. Just boil water, add salt, and gently place the ravioli in the pot until they float.

For the sauce, melt butter in a pan and add fresh sage. Let it cook until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. This will add a wonderful aroma to your dish.

Serve the ravioli topped with the sage butter sauce for a delightful experience. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese!

Ingredients

• Fresh acorn squash ravioli
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
2. Add ravioli to boiling water. Cook until they float (about 3-5 minutes).
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add chopped sage to the butter and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain ravioli and toss with sage butter.
6. Serve warm and top with Parmesan cheese.

10) Spicy Acorn Squash Chili

Spicy Acorn Squash Chili combines sweet acorn squash with zesty spices for a flavorful dish. You’ll enjoy the sweet and spicy balance that makes this recipe special. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a hearty meal.

To start, roast the acorn squash until it’s soft. Then, scoop it out and add it to a pot with sautéed onions, garlic, and your choice of beans. A dash of chili powder can bring some heat to the mix.

Don’t forget to top it with your favorite garnishes, like cilantro or cheese. This chili is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 teaspoons chili powder
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. Roast the squash cut-side down for 30-40 minutes until soft.
4. In a pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
5. Scoop the roasted squash into the pot and add beans and chili powder.
6. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

11) Acorn Squash Risotto with Parmesan

Acorn squash risotto with Parmesan is a delicious and creamy dish. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory cheese. You will enjoy making this comforting meal.

Start by roasting acorn squash until it is tender. You can preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once roasted, scoop out the flesh and set it aside.

In a pot, melt butter and sauté onion until soft. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat the grains. Gradually add warm vegetable broth, stirring often.

Mix in the roasted squash and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring to achieve a creamy texture. This dish is rich in flavor and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil, for brushing

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove seeds.
3. Brush with olive oil and roast for about 1 hour.
4. In a pot, melt butter and sauté onion until soft.
5. Add Arborio rice and stir for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually add warm vegetable broth, stirring frequently.
7. Once rice is creamy, mix in roasted squash and Parmesan cheese.

12) Honey-Mustard Glazed Acorn Squash

Honey-mustard glazed acorn squash is a tasty side dish that you can easily prepare. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with a rich honey and mustard glaze.

To start, you will need to cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. This allows the glaze to soak in as it cooks.

Mix together butter, honey, and mustard. Pour this mixture into the hollowed-out squash. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.

Bake the squash in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The result is tender, sweet, and a bit tangy—perfect to enjoy with any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix the butter, honey, and mustard.
4. Fill each squash half with the mixture.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours until tender.

13) Acorn Squash Curry with Coconut Milk

Acorn squash curry is a warm and comforting dish. With its creamy coconut milk and spices, it’s perfect for cooler days. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

Start by preparing your acorn squash. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it until tender. This step brings out the natural sweetness.

Add some sautéed onions, garlic, and spices like turmeric and cumin. Then mix in coconut milk for a rich, smooth base.

This curry pairs well with rice for a filling meal. Enjoy the lovely blend of flavors!

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Roast the squash face-up on a baking sheet for about 45 minutes.
4. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced onion and sauté until soft.
5. Stir in garlic and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the roasted squash and coconut milk. Simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

14) Cheesy Acorn Squash Casserole

Cheesy acorn squash casserole is a delicious way to enjoy this fall favorite. You will love the creamy texture combined with the cheesy flavor. This dish can be a warm side for your holiday meals or a cozy dinner option.

To start, you’ll need to prepare the acorn squash. Bake it until it is tender, then scoop out the insides and mix them with cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

This casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. You can even add sautéed vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 2 medium acorn squash
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Halve the acorn squash and remove seeds.
3. Place squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes until tender.
5. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl and mash.
6. Mix in cheese, breadcrumbs, butter, salt, and pepper.
7. Fill squash halves with the mixture.
8. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden.

15) Balsamic Roasted Acorn Squash

Balsamic roasted acorn squash is a delicious and simple dish. The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes it perfect for any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut one large acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Slice it into thin pieces and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Arrange the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 15 minutes, then turn the slices over and roast for another 15-25 minutes until tender. Drizzling balsamic vinegar before serving adds a nice touch.

Ingredients

• 1 large acorn squash
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• A few grinds of black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. Then, slice the squash into thin pieces.
4. After that, toss the slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 15 minutes.
7. Then, flip the slices and roast for 15-25 minutes until tender.
8. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.