Here’s how to cook acorn squash. Cooking acorn squash is so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t experimented with this healthy powerhouse of flavor and nutrition!
With a little know-how and a few prep tips, acorn squash will be a regular on your menu rotation all through the summer and into fall! There are so many tasty squash recipes like Butternut Squash Soup, it’ll be hard to find a favorite!
A good acorn squash should look deep green in color on the outside and feel heavy in your hands. Avoid squash that are cracked, mushy or leaking. There should be a slightly sweet smell at the base.
How to Cut Acorn Squash
Place the acorn squash on its side on a kitchen towel over a sturdy work surface. The towel will help keep it from slipping away while it’s being cut. Using a sharp knife, position the blade between one of the ridges at the top and gently ease the knife through the thick part of the flesh until you reach the hollow center.
This may take some muscle, and don’t be afraid to reposition the knife as necessary. It’s okay to turn the squash over and cut from the top of the stem there as well.
Typically, the stem will remain with one of the halves. Once the squash has been fully cut through, pull apart the two halves and scoop out the stringy pulp and seeds (you can bake the seeds the same as Roasted Pumpkin Seeds)! Now you’re ready for baked squash!
How to Roast Acorn Squash
Here’s how to cook acorn squash so it comes out perfect every time. Roasted acorn squash is a vegetarian’s dream because the sweet, mild flavor complements so many other things like beans, nuts, and cheese. Stuffed acorn squash is often found on menus in vegan restaurants because it is easy to popular and easy to prepare as an entire entrée but it’s also amazing stuffed with ground beef. Roasted acorn squash is a cinch!
Just oil and season each half, and place, flesh side up on a greased sheet pan and bake for 40 to 50 minutes at 400°F. Once fully cooked, the roasted squash can then be used as bowl or the flesh can be scooped out and served!
More Squash Recipes You’ll Love
- Microwave Acorn Squash
- Roasted Butternut Squash
- Easy Baked Zucchini
- Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Chili – Perfect for cold weather
- How to Cook Spaghetti Squash In The Microwave
- Greek Spaghetti Squash – Fresh and easy!
- Baked Spaghetti Squash
- Crispy Zucchini Fries (oven baked) – Appetizer or snack!
How to Cook Acorn Squash
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squash
- 4 tablespoons butter
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cut acorn squash in half. Using a large spoon, scoop out seeds and pulp and discard.
- Place squash in a shallow baking pan cut side up.
- Rub with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper (and brown sugar if using).
- Roast uncovered (flesh side up) for 40-50 minutes or until golden and tender.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Course Lunch
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Great recipes thanks a bunch.
Thank you, Jay! I am glad you enjoyed it.
cooked an acorn squash for the first time. Cooked in the air fryer at 400 for 45 minutes exactly as written and it was delicious. Love your recipes!
yummy yummmmmyyyy
Spend with Pennies is my go to for all recipes. I have never been disappointed in any of the recipes.!!!
Thank you, Dolly! That is so sweet of you to say.
Thank you, Holly
I always thought to put in face down but I am going to roast it as per your recipe tonight for supper.
You always have such great easy recipes.
I am so glad you are enjoying the recipes Sami! Enjoy!
An easy way to cut an acorn squash is to stab it several times and then microwave it for just a few minutes til it’s soft enough to cut.
That’s a great tip Kim!
You should try maple syrup instead of brown sugar…..more healthy and tasty
Great idea, thanks for sharing!
Such an easy recipe but I can never remember how long to bake acorn squash But this recipe turns out perfect every time! Especially when topped with brown sugar. SWP Employee
So glad you loved it, Samantha, I agree, brown sugar is the perfect topper for squash!
Looks good
Very nice nd taste too
All of these look delicious
Thanks Davina! So glad you think so.
We have this squash a couple of times a month it’s a wonderful Veg after its cooked we put butter and brown sugar on top it’s wonderful
I’m happy to hear that you are enjoying this acorn squash so much Steve! We love it too.
My husband and I love this roasted squash. When I put it in the oven, I add a tablespoon of maple syrup to each half and sprinkle a little cinnamon on . Once or twice while it’s cooking, I baste it with the maple syrup. Delicious!
Maple syrup is a great addition!