Acorn squash is easy to spot in harvest displays and at farm stands because of its iconic shape, distinct ridges, and dark green skin. They are readily available in a handy size (about two servings per squash), which lends well to one of our favorite preparations: halved, seeded, and roasted until golden brown, withbutter and brown sugarmelting into a pool inside. The result is a delicious, buttery half for each person to enjoy.
What to Do With Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is more neutral and less intensely sweet than butternut or hubbard squash. This means it is complemented by the richness of butter, cream, cheese, or a generous coating of olive oil before roasting or baking. Like many winter squashes, acorn squash pairs well with a wide spectrum of flavors—sweet, spicy, and savory.
And like other winter squash, it's versatile and can be roasted or puréed, even pickled or marinated, and served as part of a relish tray or antipasto platter. It has one special feature not found in other winter squash—its perfect shape and size are ideal for stuffing. Used as a cup for grains and other stuffings, acorn squash is an ideal vegetarian option for a holiday table.
Acorn Squash Skin
The thin skin of the acorn squash makes it easier to cut and peel than many larger, hard-skinned squashes. Another plus: The skin of the acorn squash is actually edible, so you can cook it in the skin and eat the entire thing.
Buying Acorn Squash
Look for acorn squash in early the fall through December. When you buy acorn squash, it should have dark green skin, sometimes with yellow-orange patches or striations. Choose ones that have a smooth, taut surface, free of blemishes. Always buy squash with the stem attached. Not only does it make a pretty handle—it keeps the squash from spoiling. When you lift it up, if your squash feels light, chances are it will be dry when you cut it open. Store at room temperature for up to one month in a cool, dark place.
Our Very Best Winter Squash Recipes, Starring Acorn, Butternut, Delicata, and More
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Spicy Squash Salad With Ginger-Lime Dressing
Break out of your green salad rut with this lively number.
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Roasted Squash With Sesame Seeds and Cumin
Put a savory spin on sweet acorn squash with cumin, coriander, and sesame seeds.
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Sausages With Acorn Squash and Onions
Plump pork sausages mingle well with slices of sweet acorn squash in this 30-minute sheet-pan dinner.
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Baked Acorn Squash With Brown Sugar
Simple and delicious, this easy fall side might be our favorite way to enjoy acorn squash.
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Acorn Squash With Mixed Grain Stuffing
Use this brilliant stuffed squash idea as a template: Squash halves are seasoned with an aromatic spice mix and roasted, cut side down, until just tender. Then, they are filled with a flavorful, whole-grain stuffing before baking again. Try this version with its Middle Eastern accents and the crunch of juicy pomegranate seeds, and you might decide to keep it on repeat.
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Pickle-Dressed Acorn Squash and Beets
Steaming squash is a revelation: It can be sliced easily with the skin left intact, and it is cooked in under 10 minutes. You can marinate it any way you like. Dressed as it is here in an acidic marinade, it makes a lovely addition to a holiday relish tray, along with other vegetables and cheese.
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Acorn Squash Purée
Baking or steaming then blended with butter, salt, and a sprinkle of nutmeg, produces a versatile acorn squash purée. Use it in soups, sauces, and anywhere you would use pumpkin.
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Stuffed Acorn Squash With Quinoa and Pistachios
This main-course-worthy dish is a real looker—and it's substantial, too: Quinoa is a great source of protein. If you're serving vegans, swap the feta for some nutritional yeast, which has a mild, nutty, cheesy flavor.
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Sourdough Stuffing With Apples, Acorn Squash, and Hazelnuts
This enticing bread stuffing shows us how easy it is to prepare acorn squash for use in stuffing. Without peeling it first, slice it in half, scoop out the seeds, and chop the squash into cubes. Save the seeds for roasting later.
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Chicory Salad With Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash
Sweet, maple-glazed acorn squash balances out the slightly bitter crunch of frisée and escarole in this elegant salad. The finishing touch is a simple vinaigrette of hazelnut oil, lemon juice, and sherry vinegar.
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Acorn Squash Bisque
The smooth texture of acorn squash gives this puréed soup its character. Adding just a little bit of half-and-half and butter makes it extra creamy.
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Acorn Squash Lasagna
Ricotta cheese and puréed acorn squash make a creamy, lightly sweet filling for this unique fall lasagna. Using no-boil noodles makes the preparation quicker by half an hour.
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Roasted Acorn Squash With Cinnamon Butter
Roasted acorn squash wedges are lightly glazed with warm cinnamon butter for this easy, any-night side. You can make the squash up to one day ahead and simply reheat it in the oven before serving.
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Acorn Squash Soup With Kale
Creamy golden acorn squash soup is brightened by kale and garnished with bacon in this hearty soup. Make extra Acorn Squash Purée and freeze it for a quick batch of soup anytime.
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Glazed Acorn Squash
This acorn squash side dish couldn't be easier. Simply cut the squash into slices, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and brown sugar, then roast until tender. It's a crowd-pleasing dish.
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Roasted Squash With Onions and Yogurt
Wedges of acorn squash are roasted with red onions and topped with Greek yogurt and mint leaves. This side goes well with roasted pork, lamb, or chicken.
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Roasted Acorn Squash With Pomegranate Glaze
Acorn squashes are transformed by slicing them into rings and roasting. Then, brushing the rings with a glossy pomegranate glaze perfumed with peppercorns, cinnamon, allspice, and bay leaf toward the end of cooking.
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Acorn Squash Stuffed With Mushrooms and Rice
A hearty combination of cremini or white mushrooms and rice makes a substantial stuffing for acorn squash halves.
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