Description

A stunning and easy holiday side dish featuring roasted acorn squash with a sweet, savory, and sticky maple glaze. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for Thanksgiving or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium acorn squash (about 2–3 lbs each)
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and dry the acorn squash. Pierce the skin all over with a fork and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin for easier cutting.
Let the squash cool slightly, then cut in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and pulp with a spoon.
In a small bowl or microwave-safe container, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Place squash halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush generously with about half of the glaze.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove from oven and brush with the remaining glaze. If using, sprinkle with pecans or thyme.
Return to oven for 5-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze until bubbling and golden.
Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Microwaving the whole squash before cutting makes it much safer and easier to slice. Use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for the best flavor. If the glaze burns, cover loosely with foil. This dish can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated in the oven.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 squash half
Calories: 180
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 220
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 4
Protein: 2

Keywords: acorn squash, maple glazed squash, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving recipe, gluten-free side, roasted vegetables, fall recipes, easy side dish