Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash

Whip up a simple and delicious fall side dish that combines the earthy sweetness of acorn squash with the rich, savory taste of Parmesan! This Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash recipe is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that takes full advantage of seasonal produce.

Roasted to perfection, these squash slices are coated in olive oil, garlic, fresh parsley and black pepper, then topped with a layer of grated Parmesan that turns crispy and golden in the oven. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday side dish or a weeknight veggie, this dish will elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Acorn Squash

This recipe showcases how a simple vegetable like acorn squash can be transformed into a crowd-pleasing dish. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a side that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for fall gatherings. The parmesan herb roasted acorn squash has a crisp exterior from the cheese while maintaining a soft and tender texture inside. It’s an excellent way to bring out the best in seasonal squash while keeping it light and healthy.

Not only is this acorn squash with parmesan a breeze to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Acorn squash is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber and antioxidants, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their health without sacrificing taste. Paired with heart-healthy olive oil and protein-packed Parmesan, this dish provides a satisfying balance of nutrients.

On a Nutrisystem weight loss plan? You can log each serving of this dish as half of a SmartCarb and one PowerFuel.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash

The recipe itself is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal for both novice and experienced home cooks. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this flavorful side dish:

• Start by cutting the acorn squash into thick, ¾-inch slices. Halving the squash lengthwise makes it easy to scoop out the seeds and slice it into perfect rings.
• Mix the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley and black pepper in a bowl. This aromatic blend will coat the squash, infusing it with a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the vegetable.
• Toss the squash rings in the olive oil mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated.
• Arrange the rings on a baking sheet, then generously sprinkle parmesan cheese on both sides of the squash. As the squash roasts, the Parmesan forms a golden crust that adds a wonderful crispy texture to every bite.
• Roast at 425 degrees for about 20 minutes or until the Parmesan is browned and crispy.

This method is foolproof and gives you perfectly tender squash with a delightful Parmesan crust every time.

Serving Suggestions

This parmesan crusted acorn squash is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s the perfect accompaniment to roasted chicken, grilled fish or even a hearty grain bowl. You can serve it as a side for your Thanksgiving dinner or alongside your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meal.

For an even more substantial meal, try adding this roasted acorn squash to a salad with arugula, quinoa and a tangy vinaigrette. The sweet and savory flavors will complement any dish, making it an excellent addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Customizing Your Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Want to add more herbs or switch things up? Here are a few ideas to make this dish your own:

• Add rosemary or thyme: While parsley brings a bright, fresh note, you can add rosemary or thyme for a more earthy, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the roasted squash.
• Try different cheeses: Parmesan is the star here, but you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne into the olive oil mixture before coating the squash.
• Use a different squash: While acorn squash works perfectly, you can also use other winter squashes like butternut or delicata for a similar effect.

A Healthy, Satisfying Side for Any Occasion

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or a show-stopping addition to your holiday table, parmesan herb roasted acorn squash fits the bill. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the natural flavors of acorn squash while adding a crispy, cheesy coating that everyone will love.

With its balance of textures and flavors, this Parmesan Crusted Acorn Squash is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Give it a try, and you’ll find that even the pickiest eaters will be reaching for seconds!