How to Bake an Acorn Squash

Don't walk past that delicious and affordable acorn squash in the grocery store. Sure, it looks a little strange but it is so easy to cook and so mouth watering. These simple steps will get you on track for experimenting with different twists on this healthy and flavorful offering.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Acorn Squash
• Knife
• Measuring Spoons
• Butter (real butter)
• Brown Sugar
• Oven
• Baking Pan with Sides
• Foil

1. First things first, pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees. Pour water in your baking pan, about one inch deep. I like to use cast iron, but any type will work as long as it has sides to hold in the water.

2. 
    
   Acorn Squash Sliced Open.

   Now, slice open your acorn squash with a knife. Slice it right down the middle. After opening, scoop out the seeds with your hand and pierce the inside of the squash with a fork about five times.

3. 
    
   Acorn Squash With Brown Sugar and Butter

   In the cavities of the squash, place about two tablespoons of brown sugar. And on top, place one tablespoon of butter. Add more or less to suit your taste. Place the acorn squash in the pan and cover the pan tightly with foil with one or two openings for steam to escape.

4. 
    
   Acorn Squash Ready to Eat!

   Bake in the oven for 45 minutes covered. After the 45 minutes, remove the foil and finish baking for 15 more minutes. When done, test the acorn squash pulp for tenderness by piercing with a fork. It should be soft. Remove from pan and cool on a plate for about five minutes and enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• There is no need to pierce the outside flesh of the acorn squash.
• Try different toppings like maple syrup, nuts, granola, etc.
• This reheats well. For uneaten pieces, place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Reheat in the microwave for 45 second increments until it is warm.
• Size isn't that important here. Cook the acorn squash until the flesh is tender. These cooking guidelines will get you on the right track.
• When removing the pan from the oven, be careful not to splash the hot water.
• Baked acorn squash can be addictive. I have warned you.