Description
This Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors. The roasted acorn squash creates a buttery base, while creamy goat cheese, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup add layers of texture and taste. Perfect as a holiday side dish or a cozy vegetarian main course, this dish is simple to prepare yet stunning to serve. Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal recipe for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Squash: Cut the acorn squashes in half and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Roast the Squash: Roast for 35–40 minutes, until fork-tender and caramelized around the edges.
- Toast the Pecans: While the squash roasts, toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Mix the Goat Cheese: In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese with half the maple syrup until creamy and combined.
- Assemble the Squash: Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spoon the goat cheese mixture into the center of each squash half.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the goat cheese filling and drizzle with the remaining maple syrup.
- Bake Again: Return the squash to the oven for 5 more minutes, until the goat cheese is warmed through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Roast the squash and prepare the goat cheese mixture in advance. Store separately and assemble just before serving.
- Substitutions: Use feta or ricotta cheese if you’re not a fan of goat cheese. Walnuts or pistachios can replace pecans.
- Vegan Option: Substitute goat cheese with a plant-based alternative or mashed sweet potatoes mixed with a touch of maple syrup.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 45