Grilled acorn squash with maple butter is one of my go-to recipes for fall side dishes. It is easy to make and actually quite impressive on the plate! Pair this with Smoked Pulled Ham, Smoked Turkey Breast, or a Rack of Pork for a feast. To nail this recipe, we will rely on two key elements: proper cutting technique and temperature control.
The wedge-cut shape maximizes contact with the grill grates, allowing for even caramelization. Then, the grilling process happens in two stages. First, a hot direct-heat sear develops color and flavor. Then, moving the squash to a cooler zone allows it to cook through while maintaining its structure (AKA no mushy squash here!).
This two-zone method ensures perfectly cooked squash every time! This method also works well for thick vegetables or cuts of meat that need time to cook properly, so keep this idea in mind when making other recipes.
