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Crowd-Pleasing Roasted Acorn Squash with Easy Maple Brown Butter

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This roasted acorn squash with maple brown butter is a quick and easy side dish that steals the show. With caramelized edges, tender centers, and a nutty-sweet sauce, it’s perfect for holiday dinners or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squashes (about 2.5 to 3 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Prep the acorn squash: Cut each squash in half from stem to tip. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Slice each half into 1-inch thick half-moons.
  3. Season the squash: Place the squash slices in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss gently until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring slices are not touching.
  4. Roast the squash: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25 minutes. Flip each slice using tongs, then roast for another 10-15 minutes until edges are golden brown and centers are fork-tender (total 35-40 minutes).
  5. Make the maple brown butter: While the squash roasts, place butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as it melts. The butter will foam, then the foam will subside, and brown specks will form at the bottom. Once it smells nutty and turns deep amber (about 3-4 minutes), remove from heat immediately. Stir in maple syrup, thyme leaves, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  6. Finish and serve: Transfer roasted squash to a serving platter. Drizzle maple brown butter evenly over the top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and extra thyme leaves for garnish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t walk away from the brown butter—it can burn quickly. If you accidentally burn it, start over with fresh butter. For even cooking, cut squash slices uniformly to 1-inch thickness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure caramelization.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted acorn squash, maple brown butter, easy side dish, holiday side, vegetarian, gluten-free

Find it online: https://willarecipes.com/crowd-pleasing-roasted-acorn-squash-with-easy-maple-brown-butter/