Print

Cozy Roasted Acorn Squash Rings with Brown Sugar Pecans: Easy Fall Side

roasted acorn squash rings with brown sugar pecans - featured image
Print Recipe

These cozy roasted acorn squash rings with brown sugar pecans are a simple yet impressive fall side dish. With caramelized edges and a buttery pecan crunch, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 pounds each)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
  • Pinch of salt (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the squash: Using a sharp knife, cut off both ends of each acorn squash (about ¼ inch from each tip). Stand the squash upright on one cut end and slice straight down through the middle. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits with a spoon.
  3. Slice into rings: Lay each squash half cut-side down and slice crosswise into ½-inch thick rings (about 4-5 rings per half).
  4. Make the butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  5. Coat the rings: Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with the butter mixture.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. After 15 minutes, the rings should be starting to soften and the edges will look slightly caramelized.
  7. Flip and add topping: Carefully flip each ring using a metal spatula. In the same small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, remaining brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rings.
  8. Roast another 10-15 minutes: The rings are done when they’re tender all the way through and the edges are deeply caramelized. The pecans should be fragrant and toasty. If desired, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
  9. Rest before serving: Let the rings sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter with a spatula, scraping up any extra caramelized bits from the pan.

Notes

For easier cutting, microwave the whole squash for 2 minutes to soften the skin. Don’t overcrowd the pan; use two baking sheets if needed. Watch the sugar during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. Always use parchment paper for easy cleanup. For extra caramelization, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted acorn squash, brown sugar pecans, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, holiday side dish

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/cozy-roasted-acorn-squash-rings-with-brown-sugar-pecans-easy-fall-side/