Name: Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small acorn squash; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup milk; 1 egg; ½ cup fresh corn; ½ cup Scallions; ½ Jalapeno; pinch nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; ⅓ cup white cheddar

Turn a seasonal favorite, acorn squash, into a delightful dish with a twist. This roasted corn pudding in acorn squash recipe pairs the natural sweetness of the squash with the creaminess of the corn pudding. A hint of heat from jalapeño and the sharpness of scallions make this dish a well-rounded treat.

Photos of Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Recipe

The star of this recipe is acorn squash, a winter squash with a sweet, nutty flavor. If you don't have them in your pantry, make sure to pick up some fresh scallions and a jalapeño pepper when you're at the supermarket. These ingredients give our corn pudding a vibrant kick.

Ingredients for Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

Acorn squash: A small, green variety of winter squash that has sweet, orange flesh and a nutty flavor.

Olive oil: A staple in most kitchens, used to roast the squash.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the corn pudding mixture.

Corn: Fresh corn kernels add a sweet crunch to the pudding.

Scallions: Also known as green onions, their sharp flavor complements the sweetness of the corn.

Jalapeño: Adds a spicy kick to the corn pudding.

Nutmeg: A warm spice that enhances the flavors of the dish.

Salt: Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

White cheddar: Adds a rich, creamy texture and a delicious tanginess to the pudding.

One reader, Corey Estrella says:

This roasted corn pudding in acorn squash recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, and the presentation is stunning. It's a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. I highly recommend trying it out - you won't be disappointed!

Corey Estrella

Techniques Required

How to prepare acorn squash: Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and rub the flesh with olive oil before baking.

How to make corn pudding: Combine milk, corn, jalapeno, eggs, nutmeg, salt, and scallions in a bowl, then fill the squash with the mixture.

How to bake the stuffed squash: Bake the stuffed squash at 375°F for 30 minutes until the squash is tender and the pudding is set.

How to broil the squash: Sprinkle the inner cavity with cheddar and switch the oven to broil to melt the cheese before serving.

How To Make Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

Enjoy a creamy corn pudding more uniquely by baking it inside a tender acorn squash shell! It’s made with just a handful of ingredients for a tasty side.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1small acorn squash,cut in half lengthwise, seeded
1tbspolive oil
1cupmilk
1egg,plus 2 egg whites
½cupfresh corn
½cupscallions,chopped
½jalapeno,seeded, finely diced, optional
pinchnutmeg
¼tspsalt
⅓cupwhite cheddar,or other favorite cheese, shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven at 375 degrees F.
Rub the orange flesh of the squash with the olive oil. Place cut side up on a baking sheet.
Cover the squash with foil, then bake for 40 minutes or until the squash starts to get tender.
In a bowl, combine the milk, corn, jalapeno, eggs, nutmeg, salt and half of scallions.
Fill the squash ¾ of the way with the corn mixture, then carefully place back into the oven, uncovered.
Continue baking for 30 minutes or until squash is tender and pudding is set.
Once baked, sprinkle inner cavity with cheddar and switch the oven to broil.
Serve with remaining scallions, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 359.00kcal
Fat: 20.91g
Saturated Fat: 8.30g
Trans Fat: 0.27g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.73g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.94g
Carbohydrates: 31.99g
Fiber: 3.90g
Sugar: 9.30g
Protein: 14.80g
Cholesterol: 114.62mg
Sodium: 529.88mg
Calcium: 371.13mg
Potassium: 943.95mg
Iron: 2.19mg
Vitamin A: 195.13µg
Vitamin C: 29.09mg

Technique Tip for Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

When roasting the acorn squash, it's important to remember that the size of the squash can affect the cooking time. Smaller squashes will cook faster, while larger ones may take a bit longer. To ensure even cooking, try to choose a squash that is uniform in size. Additionally, when filling the squash with the corn mixture, be careful not to overfill. Leaving some space allows the heat to circulate and helps the pudding set properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and prepare the squash in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use frozen corn: Save time by using frozen corn instead of cutting fresh corn off the cob.

Multi-task: While the squash is roasting, prepare the corn pudding mixture to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife will make the prep work quicker and more efficient.

Organize your workspace: Keep your ingredients and tools organized to avoid wasting time searching for items while cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Recipe

acorn squash - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to acorn squash and can be used as a delicious alternative in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a creamy texture to the dish.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal can be mixed with water to create a binding agent similar to eggs, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
fresh corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative when fresh corn is not in season.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for scallions in this recipe.
jalapeno - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can provide a similar mild heat and crunch to the dish as jalapeno.
nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can add a warm and aromatic flavor similar to nutmeg in this recipe.
white cheddar - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a rich and nutty flavor, which can be a delicious alternative to white cheddar in the roasted corn pudding.

Elevate Your Presentation of This Delightful Dish

Elevate the acorn squash: Carefully slice the acorn squash into elegant, uniform portions, ensuring a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the finished dish with finely chopped chives and cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.
Incorporate edible flowers: Adorn the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies for a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Utilize artistic drizzling: Create a visually stunning plate by drizzling a balsamic reduction in a decorative pattern around the roasted corn pudding.
Add a touch of luxury with truffle oil: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the dish to impart a luxurious aroma and flavor.
Enhance with microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of vibrant microgreens over the dish to add a burst of color and a subtle, fresh flavor.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the components of the dish in a symmetrical and visually appealing manner, ensuring a balanced and harmonious presentation.
Use elegant serving ware: Select elegant and sophisticated serving ware that complements the dish, such as artisanal ceramic plates or sleek, modern plating options.
Incorporate a contrasting element: Introduce a contrasting element, such as a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of honey, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Emphasize the natural beauty of the ingredients: Allow the vibrant colors and textures of the roasted corn pudding and acorn squash to take center stage, showcasing the natural beauty of the dish.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Roasted Corn Pudding

Oven: You will need an oven to roast the acorn squash and bake the corn pudding.
Baking sheet: This will be used to place the acorn squash on while roasting.
Foil: Use foil to cover the acorn squash while it bakes in the oven.
Bowl: A mixing bowl will be used to combine the milk, corn, jalapeno, eggs, nutmeg, salt, and scallions for the corn pudding mixture.
Whisk: Use a whisk to thoroughly mix the ingredients for the corn pudding.
Grater: You will need a grater to grate the white cheddar cheese for sprinkling on top of the corn pudding.
Knife: A knife will be used to cut the acorn squash and jalapeno.
Cutting board: Use a cutting board to safely cut the acorn squash and jalapeno.
Measuring cup and spoons: These will be used to accurately measure the ingredients for the corn pudding.
Oven mitts: Use oven mitts to handle the hot acorn squash and baking sheet when placing them in and removing them from the oven.

How To Store and Freeze Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

Let the roasted corn pudding cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the acorn squash tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the corn pudding in the acorn squash:
- Wrap the cooled squash tightly with plastic wrap, then wrap again with aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped squash in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
To reheat, thaw the frozen corn pudding in the refrigerator overnight.
Remove the plastic wrap and foil, then place the acorn squash on a baking sheet.
Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
If the pudding appears dry after reheating, you can add a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for reheating the acorn squash without overcooking the corn pudding inside.
Place the leftover roasted corn pudding in acorn squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the squash from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.
If the corn pudding looks dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk or cream to help moisten it before reheating. This will help prevent the pudding from drying out further in the oven.
Cover the squash with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly. This will also help the corn pudding and acorn squash reheat evenly.
Place the covered squash in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the pudding is heated through and the squash is warm. The exact reheating time will depend on the size of your squash and the amount of pudding inside.
Alternatively, you can reheat the roasted corn pudding in acorn squash in the microwave. Place the squash on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the pudding is heated through and the squash is warm. Be sure to check the squash every 30 seconds to avoid overheating.
Once the roasted corn pudding in acorn squash is heated through, carefully remove it from the oven or microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, as the squash and pudding will be very hot.
Garnish the reheated roasted corn pudding in acorn squash with fresh scallions, cheddar cheese, or a sprinkle of nutmeg before serving, if desired. This will add a fresh burst of flavor and make the dish look more appealing.

Random Fact about Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

The acorn squash is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. It also contains magnesium, potassium, and manganese.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this roasted corn pudding in acorn squash recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Acorn squash and corn are generally affordable, while white cheddar and jalapeno may be pricier. However, the dish's use of simple, accessible ingredients and its potential to serve as a main course or side dish for a family of four makes it relatively cost-effective. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10-$15. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Healthy?

This roasted corn pudding in acorn squash recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Acorn squash is a nutrient-dense vegetable, providing fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium
Corn adds fiber, antioxidants, and some protein to the dish
Milk and eggs provide protein and calcium
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats
Scallions and jalapeno add flavor and some vitamins
White cheddar contributes calcium and protein but also adds saturated fat

While this recipe has a good balance of nutrients, there are a few ways to make it even healthier:

Opt for low-fat or skim milk to reduce the overall fat content
Use a reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a smaller amount of regular cheddar to minimize saturated fat
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding more corn, scallions, or other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini
Replace half of the eggs with egg whites to lower the cholesterol content
Use a smaller amount of olive oil or switch to a cooking spray to reduce the calorie count slightly

By making these small adjustments, you can boost the nutritional value of the dish without compromising on flavor. The combination of whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables creates a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed as a satisfying and healthy option.

Editor's Take on This Delectable Roasted Corn Pudding Recipe

The roasted corn pudding in acorn squash recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the roasted acorn squash pairs beautifully with the creamy corn pudding, while the hint of jalapeno adds a subtle kick. The addition of nutmeg and white cheddar brings depth and richness to the dish. The presentation of serving the pudding in the acorn squash adds a charming and rustic touch. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the seasonal flavors and impress your guests with a visually stunning and delicious dish.

Enhance Your Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of flavors.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Carrots: Roasted carrots coated in a sticky honey sriracha glaze for a sweet and spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds.

Delicious Alternatives to Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy butternut squash soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. It's velvety smooth and bursting with the flavors of fall.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These grilled vegetable skewers are a colorful and delicious addition to any BBQ. The combination of marinated veggies and smoky grill marks will have everyone coming back for more.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Indulge in this tropical twist on a classic rice pudding. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk take this dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops: These balsamic glazed pork chops are a savory and tangy delight. The rich flavor of the balsamic reduction pairs perfectly with the juicy pork chops for a mouthwatering meal.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: This berry cobbler is the ultimate summer dessert. The warm, juicy berries topped with a buttery, golden crust and a scoop of vanilla ice cream is pure bliss.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Roasted Corn Pudding

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring a harmonious blend of acorn squash, fresh corn, and white cheddar. The dish is seasoned with a touch of jalapeno for a subtle kick, while the addition of nutmeg lends a warm, aromatic note. The use of milk and egg creates a creamy and luscious pudding-like consistency, ensuring a satisfying and comforting dish. The careful preparation and thoughtful combination of ingredients make this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delicious and wholesome meal.

Share your thoughts on the Roasted Corn Pudding in Acorn Squash Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this delightful dish.

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk. You can also replace the egg with a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer. Additionally, you can use a vegan cheese or simply omit the cheese altogether.

Can I prepare the corn pudding filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the corn pudding filling in advance. Simply mix the ingredients together, cover the bowl, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before filling the acorn squash and baking it.

What can I serve as a side dish with this roasted corn pudding in acorn squash?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa or wild rice. The light and creamy texture of the corn pudding complements the heartiness of roasted or grilled vegetables.

Can I freeze the leftover roasted corn pudding in acorn squash?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the leftover roasted corn pudding in acorn squash. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish to suit my taste?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the jalapeno pepper from the recipe. Alternatively, if you enjoy a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of jalapeno or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the corn pudding filling. Adjusting the spiciness allows you to tailor the dish to your personal preference.