The roasted acorn squash with brown sugar is a sweet and savory dish that brings out the best of fall flavors. With its rich, buttery interior and a slight hint of cinnamon, this dish is the perfect side for any meal or can be enjoyed on its own.
Acorn squash might not be a staple in every kitchen, but it's a common produce item in most supermarkets, especially during the fall. It has a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with sweet and savory ingredients. Brown sugar and cinnamon, are key ingredients in this recipe, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash.
Ingredients for Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
Acorn squash: This is a type of winter squash with a sweet, slightly nutty taste. It is high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Butter: Adds a creamy, rich flavor to the squash and helps in caramelizing the brown sugar.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and creates a nice caramelization on the squash. It also gives a beautiful color to the dish.
Cinnamon: Added for a hint of warmth and sweetness, it enhances the flavor of the squash.
One reader, Berkley Horner says:
This roasted acorn squash with brown sugar recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the sweet brown sugar and the natural flavors of the squash creates a delightful and comforting dish. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. It's a perfect side dish for any meal and a definite crowd-pleaser.
Techniques for Perfectly Roasted Acorn Squash
How to prepare the acorn squash: Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers with a spoon. Then, cut the squash into slices or wedges, depending on your preference.
How to rub the butter: Use your fingers or a brush to evenly spread the butter on each side of the acorn squash slices.
How to top with brown sugar and cinnamon: Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the buttered acorn squash slices.
How to bake covered: Place the prepared acorn squash in a baking dish and add water to the bottom of the pan. Cover the dish with foil before baking.
How to bake uncovered: After baking covered for 50 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to allow the squash to caramelize and develop a golden color.
How to serve: Once the roasted acorn squash is done, allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the delicious flavors and aromas!
How To Make Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
Grab a bite of this delicious acorn squash that’s roasted in brown sugar! They make the perfect appetizers for a big meal, and cooked in just 1 hour.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1acorn squash,cut in half, seeds and fibers removed
- 1tbspbutter,whipped
- 2tbspbrown sugar,to taste
- dashground cinnamon
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Rub ½ tablespoon of light butter on each side.
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Top with brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Place in a baking dish, then add ¼ cup water to the bottom of the pan.
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Cover and bake for 50 minutes.
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Uncover, then bake for an additional 10 minutes.
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Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 173.26kcal
- Fat: 5.98g
- Saturated Fat: 3.69g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.51g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.31g
- Carbohydrates: 31.91g
- Fiber: 3.60g
- Sugar: 8.81g
- Protein: 1.82g
- Cholesterol: 15.26mg
- Sodium: 9.85mg
- Calcium: 87.30mg
- Potassium: 764.54mg
- Iron: 1.63mg
- Vitamin A: 87.46µg
- Vitamin C: 23.73mg
Pro Tip for Roasting Acorn Squash
When roasting acorn squash, it's important to remember that the squash will continue to cook even after you remove it from the oven. This is due to the residual heat trapped inside the squash. Therefore, to avoid overcooking, you might want to take it out a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests. This will ensure that your squash is perfectly tender and not mushy. Additionally, when adding the brown sugar and cinnamon, make sure to spread it evenly over the squash. This will help to create a consistent flavor throughout.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Roasted Acorn Squash
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting and peeling the acorn squash much easier and quicker.
Microwave trick: To soften the acorn squash before roasting, pierce it with a fork and microwave for a few minutes to cut down on roasting time.
Invest in a good peeler: A good quality vegetable peeler can make peeling the acorn squash quicker and more efficient.
Multi-task: While the squash is roasting, use that time to prepare other elements of your meal to save time in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar Recipe
acorn squash - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to acorn squash and can be roasted in the same way.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a rich and slightly sweet flavor similar to butter, and it complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweet and caramelized flavor to the dish, and it pairs well with roasted squash.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm and slightly sweet flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash and brown sugar.
Presentation Ideas for Roasted Acorn Squash
Elevate the plating: Arrange the roasted acorn squash slices in a circular pattern on a large, white, porcelain plate, slightly overlapping each other to create a visually appealing display.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped fresh sage over the top of the roasted acorn squash to add a pop of color and a hint of earthy aroma.
Drizzle with elegance: Drizzle a delicate swirl of aged balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Add a touch of sophistication: Place a small quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream on the side of the plate to provide a creamy and luxurious element that complements the warm, caramelized flavors of the roasted acorn squash.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few toasted pumpkin seeds over the top of the dish to introduce a delightful crunch and nuttiness, adding depth to the overall dining experience.
Emphasize presentation: Finish the plating by dusting a light, snow-like sprinkle of powdered cinnamon over the entire dish, creating a visually stunning and aromatic masterpiece that is sure to impress even the most discerning culinary professionals.
Essential Tools for Making Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting, baking, and heating food.
- Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking and roasting food.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
- Measuring cup: A container used to measure liquid or dry ingredients.
- Spoon: A utensil used for stirring and serving food.
- Oven mitts: Protective gloves used when handling hot dishes and cookware.
- Basting brush: A kitchen tool used for applying sauces or melted butter onto food.
- Baking pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Acorn Squash
- Allow the roasted acorn squash to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled squash in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the squash:
- Cut the cooled squash into smaller portions, if desired.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 6 months for best quality.
- To reheat frozen acorn squash:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the thawed squash in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the edges, if desired.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed squash in the microwave:
- Place the squash in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through, stirring halfway through if necessary.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Acorn Squash
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover roasted acorn squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the squash with a little melted butter and sprinkle some additional brown sugar and cinnamon on top for extra flavor. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is heated through and slightly caramelized on the edges.
For a quicker reheating method, place the acorn squash in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the squash from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the squash is heated through. If desired, you can add a little extra butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon before serving.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover roasted acorn squash. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the squash in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. Brush with a little melted butter and sprinkle with additional brown sugar and cinnamon for extra flavor.
For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Once the butter has melted or the oil is hot, add the leftover acorn squash. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the squash is heated through and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle with additional brown sugar and cinnamon before serving, if desired.
Interesting Fact About Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a good source of fiber and vitamins, including vitamin A and C. It also contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Is Making Roasted Acorn Squash at Home Cost-Effective?
This roasted acorn squash with brown sugar recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Acorn squash is an affordable and nutritious vegetable, while the additional ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The dish offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth, making it a versatile and budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5, making it an excellent choice for those looking to create a satisfying and economical meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe Healthy?
The roasted acorn squash with brown sugar recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. However, from a nutritional standpoint, it does have some areas that could be improved:
- Acorn squash itself is a nutrient-dense food, packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and various minerals. However, the addition of butter and brown sugar increases the calorie and sugar content of the dish.
- While the amount of butter and sugar used is relatively small, it can still add up if consumed in large portions or frequently.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and brown sugar used, or opt for healthier alternatives like olive oil and a sprinkle of natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Experiment with other flavorful spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, which can help reduce the need for added sugars.
- Pair the roasted acorn squash with a lean protein source and a side of non-starchy vegetables to create a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
- Instead of discarding the seeds, try roasting them separately for a crunchy, nutrient-packed snack. Acorn squash seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
Editor's Opinion on This Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe
This roasted acorn squash with brown sugar recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The butter and brown sugar create a caramelized glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the squash, while the hint of cinnamon adds a warm and aromatic touch. The cooking method ensures that the squash is tender and flavorful, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that highlights the natural beauty and delicious taste of acorn squash.
Enhance Your Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar Recipe:
This recipe uses fresh acorn squash and a delightful combination of butter, brown sugar, and a dash of ground cinnamon. The squash is roasted to perfection, bringing out its natural sweetness and creating a deliciously caramelized exterior. The addition of a little water in the baking dish helps to keep the squash moist and tender. The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Trust in the simplicity and warmth of this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delightful fall dish that's sure to impress.
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