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How to Cook Acorn Squash: The Perfect Guide to Baked Acorn Squash

This step-by-step guide shows you how to cook acorn squash perfectly by baking with steam then broiling for caramelized edges. A healthy, fiber-rich side dish that’s easy, flavorful, and versatile.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 209
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium acorn squash 1-2 pounds each
  • 4 tablespoons butter divided
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar divided
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh ground black pepper
  • Water for baking sheet
  • Optional Coconut oil or olive oil
  • Optional Maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar
  • Optional Smoked paprika or cinnamon

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and position rack in the center.
  2. Carefully cut acorn squash in half from stem to tip using a sharp chef’s knife. Remove seeds and pulp with a spoon.
  3. Place halves cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet. Add enough water to cover the bottom (about 1/4 inch).
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Remove from oven, flip halves cut-side up, and switch oven to broil.
  6. Place 1 tablespoon butter in each cavity, add 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar if desired, and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Broil for 5 minutes until golden-brown and caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Cool 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For dairy-free, use coconut oil or olive oil. For vegan, swap butter with coconut oil and sugar with maple syrup. Broiling creates the signature caramelized edges, so don’t skip this step.