15 Acorn Squash Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Acorn squash is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to your meals. This winter squash can be used in a variety of recipes, ranging from sweet to savory. You can enjoy acorn squash in many different ways, making it a great choice for any meal.

Whether you’re looking to bake, roast, or stuff acorn squash, this ingredient offers plenty of options for creativity in the kitchen. From cozy fall dishes to bright and vibrant salads, acorn squash can fit into many cuisines and styles.

1) Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Glaze

Roasting acorn squash with maple glaze is a simple and tasty way to enjoy this fall favorite. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of maple syrup.

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut side up on a baking dish.

Next, add a bit of butter and drizzle maple syrup into each half. This will help create a delicious glaze as it cooks.

Roast the squash in the oven for about 40 to 60 minutes, until it is tender. You can check by piercing it with a small knife.

Enjoy your warm, sweet, and flavorful roasted acorn squash!

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• Salt (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut squash in half and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash cut side up in a baking dish.
4. Add butter and maple syrup into each half.
5. Roast for 40 to 60 minutes until tender.

2) Stuffed Acorn Squash with Italian Sausage

Stuffed acorn squash with Italian sausage brings warm flavors to your table. The squash has a sweet taste that pairs well with savory sausage. This dish can be a great main course or a filling side.

To make this recipe, you’ll slice the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. After roasting, fill each half with a mixture of cooked Italian sausage, onions, and spices.

Bake it all together until heated through. You’ll enjoy a hearty meal that highlights the best of fall flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a pan, cook the Italian sausage with onions and mushrooms.
4. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the sausage mixture.
5. Fill the squash halves with the sausage mix.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes.

3) Acorn Squash Soup with Ginger and Carrot

This comforting acorn squash soup is perfect for chilly days. It combines the sweetness of acorn squash with the warmth of ginger and the earthiness of carrots.

To start, you will roast the acorn squash, enhancing its natural flavors. Then, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger to create a tasty base.

Add chopped carrots and vegetable broth to cook until tender. Finally, blend the mixture until smooth for a creamy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. Roast for 30-40 minutes.
3. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until soft.
4. Add chopped carrots and broth; simmer until carrots are tender.
5. Scoop the squash into the pot and blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

4) Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar

Baked acorn squash with brown sugar is a simple and tasty side dish. It’s perfect for fall and can easily become a family favorite. The sweet and buttery flavor is always a hit.

To make this dish, start by cutting the squash in half and removing the seeds. Then, mix brown sugar with butter to create a sweet glaze.

Bake the squash cut side up at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes. This allows the sugar to caramelize, making the squash deliciously sweet.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 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. Mix brown sugar and butter in a small bowl.
4. Spread the mixture inside the squash.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the squash cut side up on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until tender.

5) Curried Acorn Squash Soup

Curried acorn squash soup is a warm and comforting dish. The combination of sweet acorn squash and savory spices makes it a delight. It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you want something cozy.

You can make this soup easily with fresh ingredients. It often includes curry powder, which adds a unique flavor. Some recipes even use apple and ginger for extra depth.

This soup is not only tasty but also healthy. It is often vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: coconut milk for creaminess

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. Roast for 30-40 minutes until soft.
3. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
4. Add the roasted squash, curry powder, chopped apple, and broth. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. For creaminess, stir in coconut milk if desired.

6) Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

Acorn squash stuffed with quinoa and cranberries makes a delicious and healthy meal. The sweet flavor of the squash pairs perfectly with the nutty quinoa and the tartness of cranberries.

To start, you will need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds.

Cook the quinoa according to the package directions. Once it’s ready, mix in some dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness.

Fill each squash half with the quinoa mixture. You can even top it with some chopped nuts for added crunch.

Bake the stuffed squash in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly browned.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half and remove seeds.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. Mix cooked quinoa with cranberries and season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff the squash halves with the quinoa mixture.
6. Optional: top with chopped nuts.
7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until tender.

7) Acorn Squash Salad with Feta and Pumpkin Seeds

This acorn squash salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the roasted acorn squash pairs wonderfully with tangy feta cheese and crunchy pumpkin seeds.

To start, roast the squash until it’s tender. This will bring out its natural sweetness. Once it’s ready, let it cool a bit.

You can then combine the squash with your favorite greens. Toss in some feta for creaminess and pumpkin seeds for added crunch.

This salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing. The bright colors make it a beautiful dish for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 4 cups mixed greens
• Olive oil
• 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 seeds.
3. Slice the squash into wedges and coat with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
5. Let cool, then combine with mixed greens, feta, and pumpkin seeds.

8) Twice-Baked Acorn Squash with Cheese

Twice-baked acorn squash with cheese is a delicious and nutritious dish. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of acorn squash, enhanced by a cheesy filling.

Start by baking the squash halves until they are tender. Scoop out the insides and mix them with cheese, butter, and your favorite seasonings. After mixing, fill the squash shells with the cheesy mixture and bake again until it’s hot and bubbly.

This dish is perfect as a side or even a main course. The creamy filling pairs well with the soft squash, making each bite satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squash
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: garlic powder or herbs

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until soft.
5. Scoop out the flesh into a bowl and mix with cheddar cheese, butter, and seasonings.
6. Fill the squash shells with the mixture.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.

9) Acorn Squash Puree with Nutmeg

Making acorn squash puree is simple and rewarding. This creamy dish is perfect as a side or even as a base for soups. The addition of nutmeg adds a warm, comforting flavor.

To start, roast the acorn squash until it’s soft. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes. Once it’s ready, scoop out the flesh into a bowl.

Next, add butter and coarse salt. You can then blend it until smooth. A light sprinkle of nutmeg enhances the flavor nicely.

Enjoy this puree on its own or mix it into various recipes!

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

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 halves cut side down in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until tender.
5. Scoop the flesh into a bowl.
6. Add butter, salt, and nutmeg.
7. Blend until smooth and creamy.

10) Acorn Squash Pasta with Sage Butter

Making acorn squash pasta with sage butter brings a delicious, cozy flavor to your table. You will enjoy the creaminess of the sauce combined with the sweet, roasted squash. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Start by roasting your acorn squash until tender. Then, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is ready, mix it with the brown butter and acorn squash sauce for a rich taste.

Don’t forget to top it off with fresh sage and parmesan for extra flavor! This dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 8 ounces pasta of your choice
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh sage leaves
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain.
4. In a skillet, melt butter and add sage leaves to brown.
5. Combine pasta, acorn squash, and brown butter; stir until creamy.
6. Serve topped with parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

11) Spicy Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges

Spicy roasted acorn squash wedges are a tasty side dish perfect for any meal. The combination of sweetness and spices creates a unique flavor. You’ll enjoy how easy this dish is to make.

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Slice each half into wedges about one inch thick.

Next, place the wedges on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with spices like cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss them to coat evenly.

Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and golden. Turn them halfway through cooking for even roasting.

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Halve the acorn squash and scoop out the seeds.
3. Cut into wedges about 1 inch thick.
4. Place on a baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and add spices.
6. Toss to coat.
7. Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway.

12) Acorn Squash Casserole with Apples

This acorn squash casserole with apples is a delicious and comforting dish. The smooth texture of the squash pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.

To make it extra tasty, you’ll use Parmesan cheese for a savory kick and breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. It’s great for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds acorn squash, peeled and cut into pieces
• 1 ½ cups apples, peeled and sliced
• ¼ cup butter
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, place the squash pieces.
3. Melt the butter and drizzle it over the squash.
4. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
5. Mix everything well and bake for 30-35 minutes until tender.

13) Acorn Squash and Black Bean Chili

Acorn squash and black bean chili is a comforting dish packed with flavor. It balances the natural sweetness of the squash with hearty black beans. This recipe is perfect for chilly days.

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot. Add diced acorn squash and chopped onion, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Next, mix in black beans, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Then, combine your favorite spices in a small bowl and add them to the chili.

Let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 1 cup black beans (cooked or canned)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Spices (cumin, chili powder, salt, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced acorn squash and onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in black beans, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and fire-roasted tomatoes.
4. Mix spices in a small bowl and add to the pot.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

14) Savory Acorn Squash Bread Pudding

Savory acorn squash bread pudding is a delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The soft, sweet texture of the acorn squash pairs wonderfully with crusty bread and savory flavors.

Start by roasting acorn squash until tender. You can mix it with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs. Combine this blend with cubes of bread and a creamy egg mixture for added richness.

This dish can be served as a side or a comforting main course. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

• 3 medium acorn squash
• 4 cups crusty bread, cubed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half and remove seeds.
3. Roast squash halves, cut side down, for 30 minutes.
4. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
5. In a bowl, mix eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine bread, sautéed onions, and squash in a baking dish.
7. Pour egg mixture over bread and squash.
8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until set and golden.

15) Acorn Squash Hummus

Acorn squash hummus is a tasty twist on traditional hummus. The natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash adds a unique flavor. It’s perfect as a dip or spread.

To make it, start by roasting the acorn squash until it’s soft. Once it’s cooled, scoop the flesh into a food processor. Blend it with chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and spices.

You can serve this hummus with fresh vegetables or whole grain tortillas for a healthy snack. It even gets better after sitting in the fridge for a day.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 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 seeds.
3. Roast for 50 minutes, cut side up, until soft.
4. Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh.
5. In a food processor, combine the squash, chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. Chill before serving.