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Best Caramelized Roasted Acorn Squash Rings with Pecans

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Tender roasted acorn squash rings caramelized with brown sugar and butter, topped with crunchy toasted pecans. A stunning fall side dish that’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 pounds each)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for extra glaze)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Prepare the squash: Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut off the stem end and the tip of each acorn squash. Slice the squash crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick. Use a spoon or small knife to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Make the butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved and you have a smooth, grainy paste.
  4. Coat the squash rings: Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush or spoon, evenly coat both sides of each ring with the butter mixture.
  5. Roast for 20 minutes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes until the squash is starting to soften and the edges are turning golden brown.
  6. Flip and add pecans: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a metal spatula, flip each squash ring. If using maple syrup, drizzle it over the rings now. Sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over and around the rings.
  7. Roast for another 15-20 minutes: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are deeply caramelized. The pecans should be fragrant and lightly toasted.
  8. Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the squash rings rest for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary if using, and serve warm.

Notes

Cut even rings about 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick for best results. Don’t skip the parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the pecans during the last 5 minutes as they can burn quickly. The dark edges are where the caramelization magic happens – let them get dark but not burnt. If your oven runs hot, move the baking sheet to a higher rack or reduce temperature by 25°F.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted acorn squash, caramelized squash, brown sugar pecans, fall side dish, Thanksgiving side dish, acorn squash rings, holiday side dish

Find it online: https://tablemira.com/best-caramelized-roasted-acorn-squash-rings-with-pecans/