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Easy Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Pecan and Goat Cheese

Delicious Easy Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Pecan Bliss

Easy Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Pecan and Goat Cheese is a comforting fall dish bursting with flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course sides
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • - Knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Squash

  • 1.25 pounds Acorn Squash Select squash weighing about 1¼ pounds for even cooking.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be swapped with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Coconut sugar works well as a healthier substitute.
  • to taste Salt Using sea salt gives a more robust taste.
  • to taste Black Pepper

For the Topping

  • 4 ounces Goat Cheese Try substituting with feta cheese for a similar profile.
  • 2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup Agave syrup serves as a vegan alternative.
  • 1 cup Whole Pecans Walnuts or pumpkin seeds can be substituted if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Optional; oregano or rosemary can be lovely alternatives.

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Halve each acorn squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Trim a small slice off the bottom to ensure the squash sits flat while roasting.
  • Score the flesh of the squash with a knife lightly.
  • Place the squash cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet. Rub each half with unsalted butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  • Roast in the oven for 45-55 minutes, checking for tenderness.
  • Cool the squash for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven.
  • Blend your room-temperature goat cheese with maple syrup and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth.
  • Coat the pecans in the reserved brown sugar syrup, then fill each acorn squash half with the goat cheese mixture.
  • Top with the coated pecans and return to the oven, baking for another 7-8 minutes.
  • Drizzle any remaining maple syrup over the squash and garnish with fresh thyme just before serving.

Notes

This recipe allows for customization based on personal preference and pantry items. Enjoy your culinary journey with this Easy Roasted Acorn Squash!
Keyword Acorn Squash, comfort food, Fall Recipes, Goat Cheese, Maple Pecan, Roasted Squash