Description
Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash is a delicious and easy-to-make fall recipe, featuring roasted acorn squash stuffed with creamy goat cheese, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Perfect as a side dish or light vegetarian main course, this recipe balances sweet and savory flavors for a cozy autumn meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Rub the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
- Place the squash halves cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 40-50 minutes, until tender.
- While the squash is roasting, chop the pecans and soften the goat cheese in a small bowl.
- Once the squash is done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Turn the halves over and spoon the softened goat cheese into the center.
- Sprinkle the pecans over the goat cheese and drizzle maple syrup on top of each squash half.
- If desired, return to the oven for 5-10 minutes to warm the filling.
- Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper before serving. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling them on the squash.
- If you’re vegan, you can substitute goat cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian
- Method: Roasting, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Fall
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 squash half
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg