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Cozy Maple Glazed Roasted Acorn Squash – Easy Side Dish

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This cozy maple glazed roasted acorn squash is a quick and easy side dish that comes together in under 45 minutes. With simple ingredients like maple syrup and butter, it’s perfect for fall gatherings and is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional)
  • Crumbled feta or goat cheese (for garnish, optional)
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Carefully cut the acorn squash in half from stem to tip using a sharp chef’s knife. Cut a thin slice off the bottom of each half so they sit flat. Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers with a large spoon.
  3. Cut each half into ½-inch to ¾-inch thick slices or wedges, keeping them uniform in thickness.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
  5. Place the squash slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush or spoon, apply the glaze generously over both sides of each slice.
  6. Roast for 20 minutes. Flip each slice carefully using a spatula, brush with any remaining glaze, and roast for another 15-20 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  7. Optional: Switch oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra caramelization, watching closely.
  8. Let the squash rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh thyme, crumbled feta, or toasted pecans if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For safe cutting, slice a thin piece off the bottom and top of the squash first so it sits flat. Don’t skip the salt—it balances the sweetness. Flip the squash halfway through roasting for even caramelization. Use room temperature butter for a smooth glaze. The squash is done when a fork slides in easily but the slice still holds its shape. For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil. For a spicy version, double the cayenne and add smoked paprika. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted acorn squash, maple glazed squash, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, Thanksgiving side dish, Friendsgiving recipe

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/cozy-maple-glazed-roasted-acorn-squash-easy-side-dish/