Baked Acorn Squash with Bold Butter and Brown Sugar

I’ve always loved acorn squash, but I never knew how easy it was to make at home! This recipe is my go-to when I’m craving something a little sweet and savory. The best part is that it only takes a few minutes to prep – perfect for busy weeknights.

Baked Acorn Squash

Ingredients

• 1 acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• Dash kosher salt

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• If you have a microwave, microwave the squash for a minute each, to make it easier to cut.
• Stabilize the squash on a cutting board as best you can, stem end down if the stem is short enough, otherwise on the side. Using a sharp, sturdy chef’s knife, carefully cut the acorn squash in half, from tip to stem. If on its side, the squash can rock back and forth, so take care as you are cutting it.
• Use a sturdy metal spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy bits inside each squash half, until the inside is smooth.
• Take a sharp paring knife and score the insides of the acorn squash halves in a cross-hatch pattern – about ½ inch deep cuts. place squash halves cut side up in roasting pan – pour ¼ inch water over bottom of pan-so that Squash doesn’t burn or get dried out in oven.
• Rub ½ tablespoon butter into insides of each half–sprinkle with salt if using unsalted butter.
• Crumble 1 tablespoon brown sugar into the center of each half–drizzle with 1 teaspoon maple syrup.

What is the best way to cook acorn squash?

The best way to cook acorn squash is to roast it at 400�F for 40-50 minutes. The squash is done when it is golden and tender. This method results in a delicious, homey side dish that goes well with nearly any entree. What’s more, roasted acorn squash is packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.

Should you remove the skin from an acorn squash before cooking it?

Whether or not you remove the skin from an acorn squash before cooking it is entirely up to you. Some people prefer to do so beforehand, while others find it easier to wait until the squash has been roasted. If you choose to remove the skin before cooking, simply use a sharp knife to peel it away. Otherwise, allow the squash to cool slightly after roasting, then use a spoon or your hands to scoop out the flesh and discard the skin.

How to bake acorn squash so that it comes out perfectly cooked?

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
• Cut squash in half and remove seeds from squash halves.
• Sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt over the squash halves.