Description
Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash is a flavorful fall-inspired dish perfect for autumn dinners or holiday gatherings. Featuring roasted acorn squash topped with creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and a sweet maple syrup drizzle, this recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Ideal as a side dish or vegetarian main, this easy-to-make dish is a must-try for the season.
Ingredients
2 small acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove the squash from the oven and flip them over. Crumble goat cheese evenly over the tops, then sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Drizzle maple syrup over the goat cheese and pecans.
- Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the goat cheese is slightly melted and the pecans are toasted.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For a vegan alternative, substitute goat cheese with a vegan cheese option and maple syrup with a plant-based sweetener.
This dish can be made ahead and reheated before serving, making it convenient for holiday meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Keywords: Maple Pecan Goat Cheese Roasted Acorn Squash, roasted acorn squash, fall side dish, holiday recipes, vegetarian, goat cheese, maple syrup, pecans, fall recipes, roasted squash