How To Bake Acorn Squash

Dianna Russini

3 min read

·

Apr 03, 2025

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How to Bake Acorn Squash: A Delicious and Easy Guide

Acorn squash, with its charming, nutty flavor and beautiful shape, is a fall and winter staple. Baking it brings out its natural sweetness and creates a versatile side dish or healthy base for countless meals. This guide will walk you through the process of baking acorn squash perfectly, every time.

Choosing and Preparing Your Acorn Squash

Selecting the Perfect Squash: Look for a squash that's heavy for its size, with firm, unblemished skin. Avoid any with soft spots or bruises. A deep orange color indicates ripeness and sweetness.

Cleaning and Cutting:

1. Wash thoroughly: Rinse the acorn squash under cold water, scrubbing away any dirt.
2. Cut in half: Using a large, sharp knife, carefully cut the squash lengthwise in half. Be cautious, as the skin is tough.
3. Remove seeds and stringy pulp: Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each half.

Baking Methods: Two Delicious Approaches

We'll explore two popular methods for baking acorn squash – one simple and one that adds extra flavor.

Method 1: Simple Baked Acorn Squash

This method highlights the squash's natural flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the squash: Place the cut-side-up halves in a baking dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil: Generously drizzle olive oil over the cut surfaces.
4. Season: Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Bake: Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the flesh. Baking time will depend on the size of your squash.
6. Serve: Serve warm.

Method 2: Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash

This method adds a flavorful twist. You can customize the stuffing to your liking!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (onions, peppers, mushrooms work well)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Herbs (sage, rosemary, thyme) to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sauté vegetables (optional): If using fresh vegetables, sauté them in olive oil until softened.
3. Prepare the stuffing: Combine the cooked quinoa/rice, sautéed vegetables, feta cheese (if using), and herbs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Fill the squash: Spoon the stuffing into the cavities of the acorn squash halves.
5. Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle olive oil over the stuffing and squash.
6. Bake: Bake for 50-70 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the stuffing is heated through.
7. Serve: Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Baked Acorn Squash

• Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Allow space between the squash halves for even cooking.
• Check for doneness: Use a fork to test the tenderness of the flesh.
• Add a touch of sweetness: A drizzle of maple syrup or honey before baking enhances the sweetness.
• Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different herbs, spices, nuts, and cheeses to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Baking acorn squash is a simple yet rewarding process. With a little practice, you'll be enjoying this delicious and nutritious vegetable all season long!