Description
This Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe is a cozy, fall-inspired dish featuring roasted acorn squash filled with caramelized apples, cinnamon, and honey. A flavorful vegetarian and gluten-free side perfect for holiday tables and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Acorn Squash:
-
2 medium acorn squash
-
4 tbsp butter, melted
-
2 tbsp brown sugar
-
1 tbsp cinnamon
For the Caramelized Apples:
-
4 apples (2 red, 2 green)
-
3 tbsp brown sugar
-
1/2 tsp cinnamon
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
2 tbsp butter
-
3 tbsp honey
-
Fresh thyme (for garnish)
-
Roast the Acorn Squash:
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Trim tops and bottoms off the squash to create flat bases. Cut each squash in half and scoop out seeds.
-
Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Brush insides of squash halves with the mixture.
-
Place cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
-
-
Prepare the Caramelized Apples:
-
Core and slice apples lengthwise. Toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Let sit 15 minutes.
-
Melt butter in a pan over high heat. Add apple slices (reserving juice) and cook 3-5 minutes per side until caramelized.
-
Remove from heat and stir in honey.
-
-
Stuff the Squash:
-
Turn roasted squash cut-side up.
-
Fill each with caramelized apples, dividing evenly.
-
Drizzle any leftover apple juices over top and garnish with fresh thyme.
-
-
Instructions
-
Roast the Acorn Squash:
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Trim tops and bottoms off the squash to create flat bases. Cut each squash in half and scoop out seeds.
-
Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Brush insides of squash halves with the mixture.
-
Place cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
-
-
Prepare the Caramelized Apples:
-
Core and slice apples lengthwise. Toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Let sit 15 minutes.
-
Melt butter in a pan over high heat. Add apple slices (reserving juice) and cook 3–5 minutes per side until caramelized.
-
Remove from heat and stir in honey.
-
-
Stuff the Squash:
-
Turn roasted squash cut-side up.
-
Fill each with caramelized apples, dividing evenly.
-
Drizzle any leftover apple juices over top and garnish with fresh thyme.
-
Notes
-
Use firm, slightly tart apples for best caramelization.
-
Great make-ahead option—reheat gently before serving.
-
Pairs beautifully with roasted poultry or as a vegetarian main dish.