How To Grill Acorn Squash On Gas Grill

You can grill acorn squash on a gas grill, and it turns out tender, caramelized, and slightly smoky every single time.
 
The gas grill gives you steady, controllable heat, which is honestly perfect for a dense winter squash like acorn.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to grill acorn squash on a gas grill without ending up with a burnt outside and a raw middle, you’re in the right place.
 
Grilling acorn squash on a gas grill is easier than most people think, and it doesn’t require any fancy equipment.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through how to grill acorn squash on a gas grill, from prepping and seasoning to getting those beautiful grill marks.
 
Let’s fire up that grill.
 

How to Grill Acorn Squash on a Gas Grill

Grilling acorn squash on a gas grill comes down to a few simple steps, and once you nail them, you’ll do it all fall and winter long.
 
Here’s exactly how to grill acorn squash on a gas grill so it comes out perfectly cooked.
 

1. Pick and Prep Your Acorn Squash

Start with a firm acorn squash that feels heavy for its size, since that means it’s full of moisture and flavor.
 
Wash the outside, then cut it in half from stem to tip using a sharp chef’s knife.
 
Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits with a spoon, and if you want, save those seeds for roasting later.
 
You can leave the skin on because it holds the squash together on the grill and becomes soft enough to eat.
 
Cut each half into thick slices or wedges, about one inch thick, so they cook evenly.
 

2. Season the Squash Slices

Brush each slice with olive oil, covering both sides so nothing sticks to the grates.
 
Season generously with salt and pepper, then add your favorite spices.
 
Brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg bring out the natural sweetness, while garlic powder, smoked paprika, and rosemary push it in a savory direction.
 
You really can’t go wrong here, so season the way you like.
 
Let the seasoned slices sit for about ten minutes while you heat the grill.
 

3. Preheat the Gas Grill Properly

Turn all your burners to medium-high and close the lid for about ten to fifteen minutes.
 
You want the grill nice and hot, around 400°F to 450°F, before the squash ever touches the grates.
 
Once it’s hot, clean the grates with a brush and oil them using tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in oil.
 
This step is what keeps your grilled acorn squash from sticking and tearing apart.
 

4. Grill the Acorn Squash

Place the slices directly on the oiled grates and close the lid.
 
Grill them for about five to seven minutes per side, flipping once with tongs when you see deep grill marks.
 
If the slices are thicker, move them to a cooler part of the grill and let them finish with the lid down.
 
Grilling acorn squash on a gas grill usually takes fifteen to twenty minutes total, depending on thickness.
 
The squash is done when a fork slides in easily and the edges look caramelized.
 

Tips for Perfect Grilled Acorn Squash Every Time

A few small tweaks make a big difference when you grill acorn squash on a gas grill.
 

1. Watch for Flare-Ups

Acorn squash has natural sugars that can drip and cause flare-ups, so keep the lid closed and move slices if flames jump up.
 

2. Use Indirect Heat for Thick Slices

For really thick wedges, sear them over direct heat first, then finish over indirect heat until tender.
 

3. Add a Glaze at the End

Brush on maple syrup, honey, or a balsamic glaze during the last few minutes so it caramelizes without burning.
 

4. Let It Rest Before Serving

Give your grilled acorn squash five minutes off the heat so the juices settle and the texture firms up.
 

So, Can You Grill Acorn Squash on a Gas Grill?

You can grill acorn squash on a gas grill, and it’s one of the easiest ways to turn this humble squash into a sweet, smoky side dish.
 
Just prep the squash, season it well, preheat your gas grill to medium-high, and cook each side until tender with good grill marks.
 
Whether you go sweet with cinnamon and honey or savory with garlic and paprika, grilled acorn squash on a gas grill delivers every time.
 
Hope this post has helped you with exploring how to grill acorn squash on a gas grill and the tips that make it turn out perfectly.