Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Browned Butter is a cozy fall side dish that's simple enough for Sunday supper, but elegant enough for the holiday table. Warm, caramelized squash paired with nutty maple browned butter and crispy sage makes each bite feel like autumn on a plate.
Every fall when the weather turns crisp, this roasted acorn squash recipe is one of the first I make. The buttery maple flavor reminds me of the same comfort I get from baking a batch of Butternut Squash Rolls. Both recipes are simple, cozy, and perfect for the season.
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Why You'll Love Roasted Acorn Squash
Perfect for fall: Makes the most of seasonal produce with warm, cozy flavors.
Holiday worthy: Simple but elegant enough to serve alongside a Thanksgiving turkey.
Kid-friendly prep: Kids can help scoop seeds and drizzle syrup. It's a fun way to get them in the kitchen (and to get them to try squash!)
Key Ingredients
Acorn squash: A sweet, nutty winter squash perfect for roasting.
Butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the edges.
Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup adds that classic fall sweetness.
Fresh sage: Fried in browned butter for a crispy, herby topping.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use sugar-free maple syrup in place of real maple syrup for a low-carb option.
- Swap sage for fresh thyme or rosemary
- Replace butter with vegan butter to make it dairy free.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Go savory by skipping the syrup and adding grated parmesan.
- Slice squash into rings before roasting for a different presentation.
Top Tips for Roasting Acorn Squash
- Microwave the squash for 1-2 minutes before cutting to make slicing easier.
- Don't skip salting the squash. It enhances the natural sweetness.
- Always roast cut side up so the cavity holds the butter an syrup mixture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove top. Leftovers can also be frozen up to 3 months and can be used ins soups or baked goods.
Serve with...
Serve as a side with:
- Thanksgiving Turkey Burger Bites
- Air Fryer Pork Loin
- Air Fryer Turkey Breasts
- Oven Roasted Pork Chops
More Squash Recipes
- Chipotle Butternut Squash Enchiladas
- Bacon Wrapped Butternut Squash
- Squash and Kale Lasagna
- Roasted Delicata Squash
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
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📖 Recipe
Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Browned Butter
Equipment
- Large spoon
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Ingredients
- 2 medium Acorn Squash
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 4 tablespoons Pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup fresh sage leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
- Cut Acorn Squash in half. Remove seed and pulp.
- Place acorn squash cut side up on a baking sheet. Add ½ tablespoon butter into each squash cup.
- Pour 1 tablespoon sugar free maple syrup over top of butter. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Bake in oven for 50 minutes.
- Remove acorn squash from oven and serve immediately or, see below for mashed acorn squash.
