A simple and tasty recipe that you can make in your crockpot is this Acorn Squash that you can set and forget for an easy meal, made with fresh acorn squash, butter, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt. This warm and comforting recipe makes an excellent fall side or dessert that takes approximately 8 hours to prepare and serves up to 4 people.
Jump to Recipe Print RecipeRecipe Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2-pound whole acorn squash, rinsed well
- 2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of black pepper
- 6 tbsp of melted butter
- 2 tbsp of packed brown sugar
How To Make Slow Cooker Easy Acorn Squash Recipe
- Prepare the Squash: Pierce the whole acorn squash in several places using a fork to allow for even cooking. Place the pierced squash into the slow cooker and cover it with the lid.
- Cook the Squash: Set the slow cooker on low heat and cook the squash for 8 to 10 hours, or until it becomes fork-tender.
- Cool and Cut the Squash: Once cooked, remove the squash carefully from the slow cooker and let it cool until safe to handle. Cut the squash in half and then cut each half into quarters.
- Remove Seeds and Season: Scoop out and discard the seeds from each quarter. Place the quarters pulp side up on a plate and sprinkle each with one-fourth of the salt and black pepper.
- Add Butter and Brown Sugar: Combine the melted butter and packed brown sugar in a small bowl until well mixed. Drizzle one-fourth of the butter and sugar mixture over each squash quarter before serving.
Recipe Tips
- For added depth of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over each squash quarter before adding the butter and brown sugar. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the acorn squash.
- If you prefer a savory twist, replace the brown sugar with 1 tbsp of grated Parmesan cheese and add a sprinkle of dried thyme for an herby flavor that complements the buttery squash.
- For a quicker cook time, slice the acorn squash in half before placing it in the slow cooker. This will cut down the cooking time by about an hour.
- To create a richer flavor, swap half of the melted butter for 1 tbsp of maple syrup. This addition will give a caramelized touch without being overly sweet.
Recipe FAQs and Variations
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Yes, you can use butternut or kabocha squash as a substitute, but note that cooking times may vary slightly due to the different densities.
How Should I Store Leftover Cooked Squash?
Store the cooked squash in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with 6 tbsp of plant-based margarine or coconut oil and follow the same preparation steps.
Is It Okay to Add Extra Toppings?
Absolutely. Toppings like chopped nuts, cranberries, or a drizzle of honey can be added for extra texture and flavor.
Check out More Recipes:
- Acorn Squash Stuffed With Cranberry-pecan Rice In Slow Cooker
- Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
- Slow Cooker Fruit-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Slow Cooker Easy Acorn Squash Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes8
hours200
kcalA simple and tasty recipe that you can make in your crockpot is this Acorn Squash that you can set and forget for an easy meal, made with fresh acorn squash, butter, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt.
Ingredients
1 1/2 to 2-pound whole acorn squash, rinsed well
2 tsp of salt
1/2 tsp of black pepper
6 tbsp of melted butter
2 tbsp of packed brown sugar
Directions
- Prepare the Squash: Pierce the whole acorn squash in several places using a fork to allow for even cooking. Place the pierced squash into the slow cooker and cover it with the lid.
- Cook the Squash: Set the slow cooker on low heat and cook the squash for 8 to 10 hours, or until it becomes fork-tender.
- Cool and Cut the Squash: Once cooked, remove the squash carefully from the slow cooker and let it cool until safe to handle. Cut the squash in half and then cut each half into quarters.
- Remove Seeds and Season: Scoop out and discard the seeds from each quarter. Place the quarters pulp side up on a plate and sprinkle each with one-fourth of the salt and black pepper.
- Add Butter and Brown Sugar: Combine the melted butter and packed brown sugar in a small bowl until well mixed. Drizzle one-fourth of the butter and sugar mixture over each squash quarter before serving.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories200
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
12g
19%
- Saturated Fat 7g 35%
- Cholesterol 30mg 10%
- Sodium 477mg 20%
- Total Carbohydrate
32g
11%
- Dietary Fiber 5g 20%
- Sugars 10g
- Protein 2g 4%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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