Crispy Cheese and Herb Roasted Acorn Squash

Try this delicious and easy recipe for crispy cheese and herb roasted acorn squash. Perfect for a tasty side dish or a vegetarian main course. 

Our crispy cheese and herb roasted Parmesan acorn squash is our new favorite way to serve up the old classic. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, and kids love it. The savory squash’s delicious flavor is taken out of this world with it’s crunchy exterior. It’s like you’re eating french fries!

Ingredients To Make Savory Acorn Squash

One of the things I love about this recipe is that most of the ingredients are items we already have at home. If I grab an acorn squash at the store or from the farm stand, I know I have the rest at home ready to go. Here is what you will need:

• Acorn Squash: a small or medium size squash
• Parmesan Cheese: freshly grated from a blog will work the best
• Garlic Salt: adds flavor and saltiness
• Chili Powder: adds a little heat and bold flavor
• Dried Thyme: adds herbaceous flavor
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: helps brown and caramelize the squash
• Parsley: adds a pop of freshness

The measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

How to Make Herb Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe

Roasting vegetables is my favorite way to cook veggies! It’s so easy and adds so much flavor. Here are the steps for making this squash recipe:

1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice: Half and remove the seeds from the acorn squash with a spoon and cut into 1″ slices.
3. Combine: Add the parmesan cheese and seasonings to a small bowl and stir to combine.
4. Coat: Place the squash slices on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and then sprinkle with the cheese mixture. Lay the squash in a single layer.
5. Roast: Stick the tray in the oven and roast for 20 minutes until fork tender.
6. Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot!

Keep scrolling to the end of the post for the recipe with all the complete instructions.

Watch How This Video is Made…

Can You Eat Acorn Squash Rind?

Yes! And I promise it’s not weird! But, if you want to take it off:

Simply peel it or cut it off using a paring knife or vegetable peeler.

Is Acorn Squash Healthy?

Acorn squash is low in calories and high in important nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. Parmesan cheese is also healthy in moderation and contains protein and high in nutrients for bone health.

Carrian’s Tips

Squash is actually pretty tough, think acorn, butternut etc. making it hard to cut through. I’ve found the best way to cut squash is to simply hold the squash firmly with one hand on the cutting board and use a chef’s knife to cut the acorn squash in half, from root to stem. Next, scoop out the seeds. Make sure it’s a sharp knife!

Finally, place each half on the cutting board, flat side down, and use the same knife to cut the squash into ½-inch thick half circles. If you are really having a tough time cutting it, pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes to make it even easier to cut.

What to Serve with Roasted Acorn Squash

This squash side dish is pure comfort food, so we love to eat with all the classic comfort food main dishes like…

This roasted squash also goes great as a side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas! It is so simple but looks so fancy!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days.

To reheat it, use the microwave, stove top or oven. I recommend the stove top in a skillet or on a sheet pan in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through.

This comforting recipe for crispy cheese and herb roasted acorn squash is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party. With a flavorful combination of herbs and the satisfying crunch of melted cheese, this dish is a must-try. 

More Tasty Vegetable Side Dishes