Crunchy Maple-Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe

Roasting acorn squash with maple pecan goat cheese creates a delightful autumn-inspired dish that bursts with flavor.

The sweet and savory combination melts together perfectly on your plate.

Creamy goat cheese adds a luxurious texture to the golden-brown squash.

Pecans bring a satisfying crunch that complements the soft, caramelized vegetable.

Each bite promises a rich, warming experience that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

Maple syrup weaves a subtle sweetness throughout the entire dish.

Prepare to transform your dinner table with this elegant yet simple recipe that will surely impress.

Tips to Keep Roasted Acorn Squash Fresh

• Store leftover roasted acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain optimal texture and prevent moisture buildup.
• Warm refrigerated squash in the oven at 350F for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy edges and revive the melted goat cheese. Avoid microwave heating to prevent soggy results and preserve the original roasted quality.
• Wrap individual squash halves tightly in aluminum foil, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture integrity.
• Prepare roasted squash in advance during weekend cooking sessions. Cut, season, and roast multiple squash halves, then store separately from toppings. Add fresh goat cheese, pecans, and maple syrup just before serving to keep ingredients vibrant and crunchy.

FAQs

• How do I know when the acorn squash is fully roasted?

The squash is ready when the flesh becomes tender and easily pierced with a fork. Typically, this takes about 30-40 minutes in a 400F (200C) oven. The edges will look slightly caramelized and golden brown.

• Can I substitute the goat cheese with another type of cheese?

You can replace goat cheese with feta or cream cheese if desired. However, goat cheese provides a unique tangy flavor that complements the sweet maple and nutty pecans perfectly.

• Are pecans necessary for this recipe?

While pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds if needed. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor and texture significantly.

• What if I can't find pure maple syrup?

Honey can work as an alternative sweetener. However, pure maple syrup offers the most authentic and rich flavor profile for this dish. If using honey, choose a high-quality variety for best results.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 300 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients Behind the Maple Pecan Squash Combo

• Acorn Squash: Sweet winter vegetable with tender, edible skin that caramelizes beautifully when roasted.
• Olive Oil: Helps create golden-brown surface and prevents sticking during roasting.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural sweetness of squash.

• Goat Cheese: Creamy, tangy cheese that provides rich contrast to sweet squash.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Adds deep, natural sweetness with complex caramel undertones.
• Pecans: Crunchy nuts that bring nutty depth and textural contrast to the dish.
• Fresh Thyme: Aromatic herb that provides subtle earthy brightness to complement other ingredients.

• Thyme Leaves: Optional herb that adds fresh, herbal note and visual appeal to finished dish.

Tools to Assemble Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Squash

• Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting squash evenly and catching any drips.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup super easy.
• Sharp Knife: Crucial for safely cutting the acorn squash in half.
• Skillet: Perfect for toasting pecans to bring out their rich, nutty flavor.
• Fork: Helps check squash tenderness and serves as a serving utensil.
• Measuring Spoons: For precise seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Pastry Brush: Great for evenly coating squash with olive oil.

Roast and Stuff Your Acorn Squash the Right Way

• Warm Up the Oven: Fire up your oven to a toasty 400F, creating the perfect environment for transforming your squash into a golden masterpiece.
• Slice and Prepare Squash: Split the acorn squash down the middle, scooping out its hidden seeds. Massage the interior with a silky olive oil coating and sprinkle with a whisper of salt and pepper.
• Roast to Perfection: Lay the squash face-down on a parchment-draped baking sheet. Let it dance in the hot oven for 30-40 minutes until it's tender and surrender easily to a fork's gentle touch.
• Toast Nutty Companions: While the squash roasts, awaken the pecans in a dry skillet, coaxing out their rich, earthy aroma until they turn a warm, golden brown.
• Create Delicious Layers: Flip the roasted squash, then cascade crumbled goat cheese across its surface. Scatter the toasted pecans like confetti and drizzle maple syrup in elegant ribbons.
• Final Sizzle: Slide the dressed squash back into the oven for a quick 5-7 minute finale, allowing the cheese to melt and mingle with the squash's sweet flesh. Optional: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for a final flourish of flavor.

Tips for Customizing Maple Pecan Squash

• Slice acorn squash carefully with a sharp knife to get clean, even halves for uniform cooking.
• Rinse and dry roasted squash seeds with a bit of salt for a crunchy snack that reduces food waste.
• Replace goat cheese with nutritional yeast or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version that maintains creamy texture.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika to the olive oil rub for extra depth and warmth in the roasted squash.
• Roast squash in advance and reheat with cheese and pecans just before serving to save time during meal preparation.

Fancy Ways to Present Maple Pecan Squash

• Cozy Thanksgiving Centerpiece: Arrange the roasted squash halves on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh thyme sprigs and whole pecans for a stunning holiday presentation that'll wow your guests.
• Hearty Vegetarian Main Course: Serve the squash as a satisfying vegetarian entree by pairing it with a quinoa or wild rice pilaf, creating a complete and nutritious meal that's bursting with autumn flavors.
• Elegant Appetizer Transformation: Cut the roasted squash into smaller bite-sized pieces, skewer with toothpicks, and serve as a sophisticated appetizer at dinner parties or holiday gatherings, perfect for elegant entertaining.
• Brunch Brilliance: Top the roasted squash with a perfectly poached egg and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a luxurious weekend brunch dish that combines sweet and savory elements in one delightful plate.

Crispy Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Roasted maple pecan goat cheese acorn squash brings rustic elegance to autumn dinner tables. Savory and sweet flavors meld perfectly, inviting you to savor each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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• 2 acorn squash (medium, halved, seeded, and sliced into ½-inch wedges)
• ½ cup pecans (50 g, roughly chopped)
• 4 oz goat cheese (113 g)
• 3 tbsps olive oil or melted butter
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup (60 ml)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 400F (200C), setting the stage for a transformative roasting process.
2. Squash Preparation: Carefully halve acorn squash lengthwise, meticulously removing seeds. Coat interior with olive oil, then season thoroughly with salt and pepper.
3. Initial Roasting: Place squash cut-side down on parchment-lined baking sheet, roasting for 30-40 minutes until flesh becomes tender and caramelized with a rich golden complexion.
4. Pecan Enhancement: Simultaneously toast pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat, carefully browning until aromatic oils emerge and nuts achieve a warm golden color.
5. Cheese and Finishing: Remove squash from oven, turn halves upward. Generously sprinkle crumbled goat cheese across surface, scatter toasted pecans, and drizzle maple syrup in elegant streams.
6. Final Roasting: Return squash to oven for 5-7 minutes, allowing cheese to melt and integrate with roasted flesh. Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme leaves just before serving to elevate the dish’s herbaceous complexity.

Notes

• Squash Selection Matters: Choose acorn squash with smooth, uniform skin and no soft spots for best roasting results.
• Precise Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife and steady hand to slice squash evenly, ensuring consistent cooking and beautiful presentation.
• Roasting Optimization: Placing squash cut-side down helps develop caramelization and prevents drying out during cooking process.
• Pecan Toasting Secrets: Toast pecans carefully over medium heat, watching closely to prevent burning and maximize nutty flavor without bitterness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg