15 Amazing Acorn Squash Recipes Sure to Satisfy

David Loftus

Acorn squash's buttery taste pairs well with sweet, spicy, and savory ingredients alike. It's delicious stuffed, roasted, mashed, and puréed into soup. Enjoy these acorn squash recipes all through fall and winter.

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David Loftus

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're readily available in a handy size (about two servings per squash), which lends itself well to one of our favorite preparations: halved, seeded, and roasted until golden brown, with butter and brown sugar or maple syrup melting into the well inside. The result is one delicious, buttery half with gorgeous yellow-orange flesh for each person to enjoy.

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. The richness of butter, cream, cheese, or a generous coating of olive oil before roasting or baking bring acorn squash to a new level. Acorn squash is more neutral, less intensely sweet than a butternut or hubbard squash, but like many squashes, it pairs well with a wide spectrum of flavors—sweet, spicy, and savory. As with all 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. And 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.

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 acorn squash that has a smooth, taut skin, 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.

Ahead, our favorite recipes that make good use of this delicious ingredient.

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Spicy Squash Salad with Ginger-Lime Dressing

David Prince

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15 Amazing Acorn Squash Recipes Sure to Satisfy

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Spicy Squash Salad with Ginger-Lime Dressing

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Roasted Squash with Sesame Seeds and Cumin

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Acorn Squash with Mixed Grain Stuffing

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Pickle-Dressed Acorn Squash and Beets

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Acorn Squash Purée

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Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Pistachios

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Sourdough Stuffing with Apples, Acorn Squash, and Hazelnuts

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Chicory Salad with Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash

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Acorn Squash Bisque

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Acorn Squash Lasagna

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Roasted Acorn Squash with Cinnamon Butter

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Acorn Squash Soup with Kale

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Glazed Acorn Squash

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Sausages with Acorn Squash and Onions

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Roasted Squash with Onions and Yogurt

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