Name: Parmesan Herb Roasted Acorn Squash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 acorn squash (small to medium sized); ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried oregano

A platter of this parmesan herb roasted acorn squash is simple, impressive, and oh-so-delicious. The squash slices are perfectly tender, coated with a golden cheesy seasoning, and layered beautifully for the best side dish ever.

Parmesan herb roasted acorn squash on a platter with a fork — Photo: Gayle McLeod

Before making this recipe, I realized it had been way too long since I’d cooked acorn squash. I always make batches of roasted butternut squash by default (also to make my roasted butternut squash soup). But roasted acorn squash slices are so much easier to serve. Plus, it may just be one of the best-looking Thanksgiving side dishes, don’t ya think?

And don’t even get me started on the parmesan herb seasoning. It’s so good and really brings the acorn squash to life. So if you need a new veggie side dish to add to your rotation — this parmesan herb roasted acorn squash should definitely be at the top of your list!

Ingredients for parmesan herb roasted acorn squash on a table

Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe Ingredients

Initially, I tested a maple and cinnamon roasted acorn squash recipe, hoping for a sweet result. But I’ll be honest, it tasted super bland to me as the squash just soaked up all the maple, and yet, there was a naturally savory undertone. So, I then tested this version with my favorite Italian herb seasoning that stands the test of time for everything — plus a little cheese of course! It made ALL the difference for the most highly addictive, best ever acorn squash recipe.

Acorn Squash: Look for ones that are firm, with dark green coloring. It’s okay for them to have some orange spots. But if there’s a lot of orange coloring, that means it’s overly ripe.
Cheese: When it comes to parmesan cheese, I always buy a fresh block to grate. It tastes so much better than the shredded packaged version and has a better texture for roasting!
Herbs: A blend of garlic powder, dried basil, dried thyme, and dried oregano complements the parmesan perfectly.

Helpful tip: The skin is consumable, so don’t peel it off! It’ll become soft enough to eat after it roasts. Plus, it helps keep the flesh together to form perfect slices.

Find the printable recipe with measurements below.

How To Make Roasted Acorn Squash

Prep the acorn squash. Slice the top and bottom off, then slice it in half. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then slice each half into 1-inch thick slices. Side note – if your acorn squash isn’t ripe yet, it will be a bit harder to slice through!

Sliced acorn squash on a cutting board before roasting

Mix it all up! Toss the squash slices with oil, parmesan, garlic, salt, basil, thyme, and oregano.

A bowl of sliced acorn squash before roasting

It’s baking time. Place the squash slices on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 425°F (220°C). They should be soft and slightly golden!

A baking sheet filled with parmesan herb roasted acorn squash

Helpful tip: If you want a thicker parmesan crumble on top, pile any of the leftover parmesan herb mix on top of each squash slice before baking. It’ll be extra delicious!

A white platter of parmesan herb roasted acorn squash

Storage Tips

To store: Any leftover squash can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just keep in mind that it will soften over time.
To freeze: Let any slices completely cool before popping them in the freezer. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. And to prevent the slices from sticking to each other, you can add parchment paper in between.

More Easy Roasted Vegetables

I’m excited to see all your platters of this parmesan herb roasted acorn squash this holiday season! If you make it, be sure to drop a comment below on how it turned out.