Learning how to cook acorn squash begins with its easy prep. It’s a breeze since there is no real need to peel the squash, as the flesh separates easily from the skin and can be eaten directly from the shell once cooked. (Eating the skin is a personal preference but it is edible, just be sure to wash and scrub well). You will always want to start by halving the squash through the stem to remove the seeds and stringy bits and using a sharp chef’s knife and a stable work surface to do so. From there, cut into wedges or chunks, slice, or leave as halves. Play around with different seasonings and spices like ground coriander, chili powder, or sprinkle with a nut and seed mixture and a drizzle of maple syrup before serving. For a delightful, cozy option, toss the squash with oil or melted butter, honey or maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.
How to Roast Acorn Squash
This is a go-to method for cooking acorn squash, as the heat of the oven helps to concentrate and enhance its flavor. After the acorn squash is cut in half and scooped to remove the seeds, it can be cut into wedges or roasted cut-side down. Roasting cut-side down allows for the subtle caramelization of the flesh and it’s just divine. If seasoning with more than just olive oil, salt, and pepper, be sure to line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. For a hearty meal, stuff each acorn squash half like in this Goat Cheese and Mushroom–Stuffed Acorn Squash.
How to Boil Acorn Squash
The perk of boiling acorn squash is that it yields moist, tender flesh. This is a good option for soups or if mashing and serving as a side (after peeling away the skin post-cooking). It will need some fat such as olive oil or butter to give it flavor, as well as seasoning.
How to Steam Acorn Squash
Steaming acorn squash helps to keep it extra-tender and soft while conserving its subtle sweetness. There is no fat needed to cook it in this method, which is great for someone looking to use less fat in their cooking. However, because fat does add flavor, steamed acorn squash benefits from melted butter or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
How to Grill Acorn Squash
Grilled acorn squash is a delicious option when craving a subtle smokiness and it elevates the squash’s mild taste wonderfully. Infuse the squash with flavor with a spiced butter mixture made simply with room-temperature butter, warm ground spices, and a touch of maple syrup or honey. Indirect heat is key here to ensure the squash cooks evenly and maintains its tender texture.
How to Saute Acorn Squash
Sautéing isn’t a cooking method commonly used for acorn squash, but it does yield caramelized chunks without turning on the oven. The secret to this technique is steam-frying. Basically, just a bit of water is added to the skillet after pan-frying the squash to create enough steam to ensure it cooks evenly and retains moisture.
How to Cook Acorn Squash in an Air Fryer
Not only does the high heat of an air fryer help to get caramelized edges on the squash, but it also cooks in a fraction of the time. The result is much like roasting, the orange flesh will be tender and the flavor will be concentrated and enriched by all those browned bits.
How to Cook Acorn Squash in an Instant Pot
Much like traditional steaming on the stovetop, cooking acorn squash in an Instant Pot—AKA under pressure—will yield tender and moisture-rich results. It’s a great method for when you want to use the flesh of the acorn squash, as you can just scoop it from its shell. Try it for soup, mash, or to make a silky sauce– or puree it and use it for pie!
