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What to serve with baked squash is one of those questions that pops up the moment you pull a golden, caramelized squash out of the oven.
The good news is that baked squash pairs beautifully with a wide range of main dishes, sides, and toppings.
Whether you’re working with butternut, acorn, delicata, or kabocha, the sweet, nutty flavor of baked squash plays well with savory, salty, and even spicy companions.
In this post, we’ll walk through what to serve with baked squash, from hearty proteins to light sides and finishing touches.
Let’s dig in.
What to Serve With Baked Squash: Hearty Main Dishes
If you’re wondering what to serve with baked squash as the star of the plate, hearty proteins are a natural fit.
The sweetness of the squash balances the richness of the meat, and the textures work together beautifully.
1. Roasted Chicken or Turkey
A roast chicken is probably the classic answer to what to serve with baked squash.
The crispy skin and juicy meat soak up the natural sugars of the squash, and a little pan drippings drizzled on top take it to another level.
Try a lemon-herb chicken with a side of baked squash for a cozy Sunday dinner.
2. Pork Chops or Pork Tenderloin
Pork and squash are a match made in heaven.
The savory, slightly salty flavor of a seared pork chop cuts right through the sweetness of baked squash.
Add a maple glaze or a mustard sauce and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal at home.
3. Sausage or Bacon
If you want something quick, sausage or bacon is a fantastic answer to what to serve with baked squash.
Italian sausage, kielbasa, or thick-cut bacon add a smoky, salty punch that complements the caramelized edges of the squash.
Toss them together in a sheet pan dinner and you’ve got a one-pan meal with almost no cleanup.
4. Lentils or Chickpeas
For a plant-based option, lentils and chickpeas are excellent when you’re thinking about what to serve with baked squash.
They add protein and a satisfying chew that balances the soft texture of the squash.
A warm lentil salad with feta and herbs alongside baked squash is simple, filling, and full of flavor.
What to Serve With Baked Squash: Light and Fresh Sides
Sometimes you want a lighter plate, and that’s where fresh, crunchy sides come in.
They add contrast and keep the meal from feeling too heavy.
1. Simple Green Salad
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is one of the easiest answers to what to serve with baked squash.
The acidity of the dressing brightens up the sweet, earthy flavor of the squash.
Add some toasted nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and a little sweetness.
2. Steamed or Roasted Greens
Kale, spinach, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts all work well with baked squash.
A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan on top of the greens ties everything together.
Roasting the greens brings out their natural sweetness, which echoes the squash nicely.
3. Grains Like Quinoa, Farro, or Wild Rice
Grains are another great option when you’re figuring out what to serve with baked squash.
They soak up any sauce or dressing and add a nutty flavor that complements the squash.
A warm grain bowl with baked squash, greens, and a tahini drizzle is a meal in itself.
4. Crusty Bread
Never underestimate a good loaf of crusty bread.
It’s perfect for scooping up the soft flesh of the squash and any juices on the plate.
A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette with butter is a simple but satisfying answer to what to serve with baked squash.
What to Serve With Baked Squash: Toppings and Finishing Touches
Sometimes the best answer to what to serve with baked squash isn’t a side dish at all.
It’s what you put on top of the squash itself.
1. Brown Butter and Sage
Brown butter with crispy sage leaves is a classic topping for baked squash.
The nutty, aromatic flavor of the butter brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.
Spoon it over the top right before serving and watch it disappear.
2. Maple Syrup or Honey
A drizzle of maple syrup or honey enhances the caramelized flavor of baked squash.
It’s especially good on acorn or delicata squash, which have a natural sweetness that plays well with a little extra sugar.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.
3. Feta, Goat Cheese, or Parmesan
Cheese is always a good idea when you’re deciding what to serve with baked squash.
Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast, while parmesan brings a salty, umami punch.
Sprinkle it on while the squash is still hot so it melts just a little.
4. Toasted Nuts and Seeds
Pepitas, walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds add crunch and richness.
They’re a simple way to elevate baked squash without any extra cooking.
Toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
So, What to Serve With Baked Squash?
What to serve with baked squash really comes down to balance.
Pair it with savory proteins for a hearty meal, fresh sides for a lighter plate, or sweet and salty toppings for extra flavor.
The best part is that baked squash is versatile enough to work with almost anything you’ve got in the kitchen.
So grab a squash, preheat that oven, and serve it up with whatever sounds good tonight.