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Best Brown Sugar Roasted Acorn Squash with Pecans

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This brown sugar roasted acorn squash with pecans is a quick and easy fall side dish that’s sweet, crunchy, and tender. Perfect for Thanksgiving or a cozy weeknight dinner, it comes together in under 45 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup chopped raw pecans
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (preferably freshly grated)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut each acorn squash in half from stem to tip. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon. Slice each half into 1-inch thick rings or half-moons.
  3. Arrange the squash pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast for 15 minutes (par-cook).
  4. While the squash is par-cooking, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Fold in the chopped pecans.
  5. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spread the brown sugar-pecan mixture evenly over each piece of squash.
  6. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and the topping is bubbly and caramelized.
  7. Optional: For extra caramelization, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Let the squash cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the top, and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip the par-cook step—it prevents the pecans from burning. Cut squash pieces uniformly (about 1 inch thick) for even cooking. Toast pecans beforehand for deeper flavor. Line the pan with parchment for easy cleanup. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure proper caramelization.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar roasted acorn squash, acorn squash with pecans, fall side dish, roasted acorn squash, Thanksgiving side dish

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