These roasted acorn squash slices are coated in a savory rosemary-pecorino crust for a cozy, flavorful fall side. Gluten-free and easily made vegan, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or easy weeknight dinners. Simple, seasonal, and crowd-pleasing.

Roasted Acorn Squash with Rosemary 🍂
Looking for a new way to enjoy acorn squash this fall? These Roasted Acorn Squash Slices might be your new favorite. Coated in a cheesy, herb-filled crust, they’re a little sweet, a little savory, and entirely satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving something cozy, these are easy to make — and even easier to love.
There’s something undeniably cozy about roasted winter squash — warm, golden with a deeply satisfying flavor. These Roasted Acorn Squash Slices take things a step further with a savory cheese coating made from rosemary, sage and pecorino. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like autumn on a plate.
Why You’ll Love These Roasted Acorn Squash Slices 💛
- Cheese crust on the outside, tender on the inside – The almond flour and pecorino form a golden crust while the squash stays soft and sweet inside.
- Savory & herby – Rosemary and sage bring autumnal warmth, balanced with a hint of garlic.
- Naturally gluten-free – Almond flour gives the crust a bit of crunch without any gluten.
- Easily made vegan – Swap the butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a fully vegan version.
- Perfect for holidays or weeknights – Special enough for gatherings, easy enough for everyday dinners.
- One pan, simple prep – No peeling necessary, no complicated steps — just slice, season, roast.

What Is Acorn Squash? 🧐
Acorn squash is a winter squash named for its acorn-like shape. Its ridged dark green skin sometimes features patches of orange, and inside is a pale yellow-orange flesh that becomes tender and subtly sweet when cooked.
How it differs from other squashes:
- Flavor: Mild, slightly nutty, not as sweet as butternut.
- Texture: Soft when roasted but not watery; holds its shape.
- Edibility: The skin is edible (and helps slices hold shape during roasting).
Compared to butternut squash, which is creamier and sweeter, acorn squash is starchier and more understated in flavor, making it perfect for pairing with bold herbs, cheese, and savory toppings.
Ingredients & Notes 🧂
Each ingredient in this recipe adds a layer of flavor and texture to enhance the squash’s natural sweetness.
| Ingredient | Why it’s used |
| Acorn squash | The main ingredient — sweet, nutty, and perfect for roasting. |
| Olive oil | Adds moisture and helps the squash roast. |
| Butter (or vegan butter) | Adds depth of flavor and helps with browning. Can be swapped for a vegan butter. |
| Salt | Brings out the squash’s natural flavor and balances sweetness. |
| Fresh rosemary | Woody and fragrant — a classic fall herb. |
| Dried sage | Earthy and slightly peppery — balances the sweet squash. |
| Garlic (minced or finely grated) | Adds aromatic depth and savory warmth. |
| Almond flour | Creates a golden, crunchy crust; naturally gluten-free. |
| Grated pecorino | Sharp and salty, it enhances the crust. Can be subbed for vegan parmesan or skipped for vegan. |
How to Cut & Prepare Acorn Squash for Roasting 🔪
Proper prep makes roasting quicker and safer. Here’s how to do it:
- Wash thoroughly
Scrub the squash under water to remove any dirt (especially if leaving skin on). - Stabilize and slice in half
Place on a cutting board. Carefully cut in half— use a sharp knife and stabilize with a cloth underneath if needed. - Scoop the seeds
Use a sturdy spoon to remove seeds and pulp. You can save the seeds for roasting or compost them. - Slice into rounds or half-moons
Lay each half onto the cutting board flat side down. Slice into ½ inch slices. The ridges will give your slices that beautiful scalloped edge. - Leave the skin on (optional)
The skin is edible and softens during roasting — no need to peel unless you prefer it that way.

How to Roast Acorn Squash Slices 🔥
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Make the crust mixture
In a small bowl, mix:- Olive oil and melted butter (or vegan alternative)
- Salt
- Finely chopped rosemary
- Ground dried sage
- Minced or grated garlic
- Almond flour
- Grated pecorino
- Toss the slices - Lightly coat each squash slice into the mixture so it adheres evenly.
- Arrange on baking sheet - Place in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Spread the remaining paste onto the squash slices.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for tender centers and a golden, crisp top.
- Finish and serve - Let cool for a few minutes on the tray and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions 🎉
These roasted acorn squash slices are versatile and occasion-ready:
- 🍁 Fall Gatherings or Thanksgiving - Serve as a beautiful, seasonal vegetarian side dish.
- 🥗 Weeknight Dinners - Pair with a green salad and a protein for a balanced meal.
- 🥪 Lunch Bowl Add-In - Add cold or warm slices to veggie or grain bowls with greens, and dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
- Do I need to peel acorn squash?
Nope — the skin softens and is totally edible after roasting. - How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.
Final Thoughts 🍽
These roasted acorn squash slices are everything we love about fall on a single sheet pan — warm, golden, savory, and just a little bit indulgent. With minimal prep and a short ingredient list, they deliver big flavor and texture without fuss.
Whether you're planning a holiday menu, hosting friends for a cozy dinner, or just craving something comforting and seasonal, these slices fit right in. They’re simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining — a recipe that earns a spot in your fall and winter rotation.
If you make this dish, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to share your twists — maybe a different cheese, spice, or herb — and tag your creations so I can see how you’re roasting your way through the season. 🍁
More Squash Recipes:
Roasted Acorn Squash Slices
Golden roasted acorn squash slices with a savory rosemary-pecorino crust. A cozy, gluten-free fall side dish perfect for holidays or weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 ½ Tablespoons/22ml olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon/15ml softened or melted butter (or vegan butter)
- ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- ⅛th teaspoon ground dried sage
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
- 1 Tablespoon/7g almond flour
- 2 Tablespoons/14g grated pecorino cheese (or vegan alternative)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the squash: Wash the squash well. Cut in half and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Slice into ½ inch thick half-moons. Leave the skin on.
- Make the crust paste: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, salt, chopped rosemary, dried sage, garlic, almond flour, and grated pecorino.
- Toss the squash slices: Add the squash slices to the bowl and gently toss until well coated in the paste. Make sure each slice has good contact with the mixture.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Use a spoon or spatula to spread any remaining paste evenly over the tops of the slices.
- Roast: Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the crust is golden and crisp. No need to flip during cooking.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions 🎉
- 🍁 Fall Gatherings or Thanksgiving - Serve as a beautiful, seasonal vegetarian side dish.
- 🥗 Weeknight Dinners - Pair with a green salad and a protein for a balanced meal.
- 🥪 Lunch Bowl Add-In - Add cold or warm slices to veggie or grain bowls with greens,
and dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
- Do I need to peel acorn squash? - Nope — the skin softens and is totally edible after roasting.
- How do I store leftovers? - Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture.
Dietary Info:
Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Vegetarian, Vegan Option, Dairy-Free Option, Egg-Free
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 161Total Fat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 417mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 3gSugar: 0gProtein: 3g
Nutritional information for recipes contained on this website, such as calories, fat, carbs, etc. are only estimates and are not guaranteed to be accurate.

Sylvie Shirazi is the recipe developer and food photographer behind Gourmande in the Kitchen. For the last 10 years she's been making eating more healthfully easy and accessible with gluten-free, grain-free, paleo and vegan recipes that are free from processed ingredients.





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