Delicious Acorn Squash Recipes to Celebrate Fall

Hello, fellow fall enthusiasts! 🍂 As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, it’s time to embrace the warm, cozy flavors of autumn. And what better way to do that than by featuring one of the season's star ingredients: acorn squash! With its sweet, nutty flavor and vibrant colors, this squash is not just a pretty face—it's also incredibly versatile and delicious. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into five acorn squash recipes that will make your taste buds sing!

What is Acorn Squash, Anyway?

If you’re wondering what acorn squash looks like, it’s pretty hard to miss! This small, bell-shaped squash comes in dark green or bright yellow hues, often with a slightly ribbed skin. Once you slice it open, you’ll find a lovely golden-orange flesh that’s perfect for roasting, baking, or even stuffing!

Now, let’s get to the fun part—the recipes! Each one is designed to showcase the delightful taste of acorn squash while adding a sprinkle of fall magic to your kitchen.

1. Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Glaze

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Slice the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds (save those for roasting later!).

3. Drizzle the inside with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.

4. Pour maple syrup into each half, letting it coat the flesh.

5. Roast the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.

6. Flip and serve warm. Enjoy the sweet, caramelized goodness!

2. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Halve the squash and scoop out the seeds.

3. In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Fill each half of the squash with the quinoa mixture.

5. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.

6. Serve warm and watch everyone gobble it up!

3. Creamy Acorn Squash Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 cup coconut milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Roast the acorn squash as described in the first recipe until tender.

3. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.

4. Scoop the squash flesh into the pot, add vegetable broth, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Blend until smooth, then stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.

6. Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that cozy feel.

4. Acorn Squash and Apple Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, thinly sliced

• 2 apples, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a greased casserole dish, layer the sliced acorn squash and apples.

3. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, then drizzle melted butter on top.

4. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

5. Serve warm as a side dish or a sweet dessert—who said you can’t have dessert with dinner?

5. Acorn Squash Risotto

Ingredients:

• 1 acorn squash, roasted and cubed

• 1 cup Arborio rice

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Olive oil for sautéing

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, warm the vegetable broth and keep it on low heat.

2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent.

3. Add the Arborio rice and toast for a couple of minutes.

4. Gradually add the warm broth, stirring until absorbed, repeating until the rice is creamy and cooked (about 20 minutes).

5. Fold in the roasted acorn squash and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Serve warm with extra cheese on top—because more cheese is always better!

Why Acorn Squash?

Besides being delicious, acorn squash is packed with nutrients! It’s rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those garden harvests or the ones you picked up at your local farmers’ market.

For more pumpkin-flavored fun, be sure to check out my post on 4 Easy Pumpkin Recipes Better Than Pie. You won't want to miss these delightful dishes that can make your fall gatherings even sweeter!

Acorn squash is the ultimate fall food, bringing warmth and flavor to your table. Whether you roast it, stuff it, or turn it into a creamy soup, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking, and let the flavors of autumn fill your home!