Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash That Brings the Perfect Blend of Sweet, Nutty, and Savory Flavors

This Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash is a true fall favorite, combining the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans and the irresistible hint of maple syrup. With each bite, you'll experience the caramelized squash paired with crunchy pecans and a touch of blue cheese, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you're serving it as a side dish for a holiday meal or as a delightful weeknight dinner, this roasted acorn squash is sure to impress.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash

This recipe is inspired by the wonderful flavors of fall. The acorn squash, naturally sweet and creamy when roasted, pairs perfectly with maple syrup and crunchy pecans. The addition of blue cheese adds a savory, salty contrast that balances out the sweetness of the maple and squash. The result is a dish that feels both luxurious and wholesome, with layers of flavor that will delight your taste buds. It's a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, but it's also simple enough to make for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash

This dish combines the best flavors of fall in one beautifully roasted squash. The tender, caramelized squash is complemented by the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of maple syrup, while the blue cheese adds a savory depth that makes each bite even more satisfying. It’s a simple yet stunning dish that is both easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Plus, the combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it versatile enough to serve with roasted meats, salads, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fiber: 6g

This roasted squash is packed with healthy fats from the pecans and plenty of fiber from the acorn squash, making it a delicious and nutrient-dense side dish.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. It works particularly well alongside roasted meats such as pork tenderloin, turkey, or chicken. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a wild rice pilaf or a hearty grain salad. The sweetness of the maple syrup and squash is balanced by the tanginess of blue cheese and the crunch of pecans, making it a versatile dish that complements many flavors. Serve it as part of a holiday spread, or enjoy it on a quiet night with a glass of crisp white wine or cider.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the oven will help maintain the crispy texture of the pecans. If you'd like to freeze the dish, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

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Fun Fact: Acorn Squash—A Versatile Fall Favorite

Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a heart-healthy choice for fall meals. Its mild sweetness and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether roasted, stuffed, or pureed into soups, acorn squash is a must-have ingredient for your fall cooking repertoire.

Cooking Tips

Toast the Pecans: For an even deeper flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the squash. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.

Balance the Flavors: If blue cheese isn't your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese or feta for a milder, creamier flavor.

Broil for Extra Crispiness: For added texture, broil the squash for a few minutes after roasting to give the edges a slightly crispy finish.

Optional Variations

• Candied Pecans: For a sweeter twist, toss the pecans in a little brown sugar before adding them to the squash.
• Cranberry Addition: Add dried cranberries to the mix for a burst of tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, simply omit the blue cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.

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Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush the insides of the acorn squash halves with melted coconut oil or ghee. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
3. Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized around the edges.
4. While the squash is roasting, prepare the maple pecan topping. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the pecans and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the pecans are lightly toasted.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the maple syrup. Set aside.
6. Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and flip the halves over. Spoon the maple pecan mixture into the center of each squash half.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the pecans, then return the squash to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy!

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Final Thoughts

This Maple Pecan Roasted Acorn Squash is a perfect blend of fall flavors, combining sweet, savory, and nutty elements in a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The combination of tender roasted squash, crunchy pecans, rich maple syrup, and tangy blue cheese creates a symphony of textures and tastes that are sure to impress. Whether you’re serving this as a side for a special holiday meal or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!