Get ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into a mind-blowing culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Baked Squash with Butter and Maple Syrup isn't just a side dish – it's a sweet and savory journey that turns humble acorn squash into a golden, caramelized masterpiece that screams autumn comfort. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that looks impressive and tastes absolutely incredible.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even cooking.
- Carefully wash the acorn squashes under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with clean paper towels.
- Using a sharp chef's knife, carefully cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise. Use a sturdy spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each squash half.
- Place the squash halves cut-side up on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Divide the unsalted butter equally among the squash cavities, placing approximately 1 tablespoon of butter in each half.
- Drizzle maple syrup evenly over each squash half, ensuring good coverage of the exposed flesh.
- Season the squash with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, focusing on the buttered and syrup-coated surfaces.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges start to caramelize.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the squash to cool slightly.
- Serve warm, spooning any additional melted butter and maple syrup from the baking sheet over the squash halves before plating.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm acorn squashes with smooth, unblemished skin for the best results.
- Use a sharp, sturdy knife when cutting squash to ensure clean, safe cuts.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside the salt and pepper.
- Don't rush the caramelization process – those golden, slightly crispy edges are where the magic happens!
- If you prefer a more pronounced maple flavor, use high-quality, pure maple syrup.
- Let the squash rest after baking to allow the flavors to fully develop and integrate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 203kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 100mg
