Acorn Squash My Way

I love, love, love squash and I especially love acorn squash!!! The thing I don't love about most squash recipes is all the extra garbage that covers up the creamy, rich natural flavor of the squash. I like to keep it simple and allow the squash to shine.

1 acorn squash, cut in half and seeded
1 tbsp butter, melted
salt and fresh pepper
garlic powder (a couple shakes)
1 tbsp brown sugar
maple syrup

Preheat oven to 375. In a 9x13 baking dish, place squash, cut side down and add 1 cup water. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave 12 minutes. After squash is done, remove from microwave, remove plastic wrap & drain any remaining water. With a large spatula, turn squash over - cut side up now. Pour half of melted butter int each squash cavity. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Sprinkle with garlic powder. Put half of brown sugar in each cavity. Lightly drizzle maple syrup over squash and bake until golden brown and bubbly 15-20 minutes. Remove from oven. Using a fork, lightly fluff squash to blend squash with the glaze/sauce.
Taste and correct salt & pepper if necessary.