Baked Pecan Thyme Acorn Squash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Pecan Thyme Acorn Squash is a savory-sweet side dish that captures the essence of fall with roasted acorn squash, crunchy pecans, and aromatic thyme. It’s simple to prepare and brings a comforting warmth to any meal. The blend of caramelized squash and nutty, herby toppings makes it a standout addition to holiday dinners or weeknight meals alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

acorn squasholive oilmaple syrupchopped pecansfresh thyme leavesground cinnamonsalt and pepperbutter

directions

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.

Slice each half into 1-inch thick wedges and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Drizzle the wedges with olive oil and maple syrup, then sprinkle with cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

Toss to coat evenly and spread out in a single layer.

Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.

In the final 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle chopped pecans and fresh thyme over the squash and add small pats of butter on top.

Continue roasting until the pecans are toasted and the butter has melted into the squash.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesRoasting time: 30-35 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Substitute walnuts or hazelnuts for pecans if desired.

Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different herbaceous twist.

Add a touch of balsamic glaze before serving for extra flavor depth.

Include a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy contrast.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the squash in advance and reheat before serving.

Do I need to peel the acorn squash?

No, the peel becomes tender and edible when roasted, but you can remove it if you prefer.

Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can be made vegan by using a plant-based butter or omitting the butter altogether.

Can I roast the squash whole?

It’s best sliced into wedges to allow even roasting and flavor absorption.

What other spices can I use?

Nutmeg, cloves, or a pumpkin spice blend can add a different flavor profile.

Does this pair well with meats?

Yes, it complements roasted poultry, pork, or beef dishes beautifully.

How do I keep the pecans from burning?

Add them in the last 5 minutes of roasting to toast without burning.

Can I add sweet elements?

Try a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra sweetness.

What’s the best way to slice acorn squash?

Use a sharp knife and stabilize the squash on a cutting board to safely slice through.

Conclusion

Baked Pecan Thyme Acorn Squash brings together the best flavors of the season with minimal effort. Whether served at a festive gathering or alongside a cozy dinner, its rich texture and balanced flavor profile make it a reliable favorite. With a few easy customizations, you can adapt it to suit any taste or occasion.

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