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Creamy Roasted Acorn Squash with Brown Butter

creamy roasted acorn squash with brown butter - featured image

A comforting autumn side dish featuring tender acorn squash roasted face-down to steam, then finished with nutty, toasted brown butter for a rich, caramelized flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash halves (about 23 pounds total)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • Optional: Fresh thyme or sage leaves
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • Optional: Splash of apple cider

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Wash the acorn squash. Carefully cut it in half from stem to base. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon.
  3. Sprinkle the cut sides of the squash with salt and pepper. Rub gently. Add fresh herbs if using.
  4. Place squash halves face down on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. While squash roasts, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until foam subsides and milk solids turn golden brown with a nutty aroma (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat immediately.
  6. Remove squash from oven and flip halves face up. Pour hot brown butter evenly over the cut sides. Add maple syrup if using.
  7. Return to oven and roast face up for another 10-15 minutes until edges are golden brown.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Start browning the butter when the squash has been in the oven for about 10 minutes to ensure everything is ready simultaneously. Do not leave brown butter unattended as it burns quickly. If squash is still hard after 30 minutes, cover loosely with foil and roast longer. For vegan version, use vegan butter or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: acorn squash, brown butter, roasted vegetables, fall recipes, gluten-free, vegan option, autumn comfort food, healthy side dish