Roasted Acorn Squash, Apple, and Pancetta Flatbreads

Man, I have really been into flatbreads lately, ha! Maybe it’s a pregnancy craving?! Anywho, these roasted acorn squash, apple, and pancetta flatbreads are fabulous but definitely leaning into that fall flavor profile… whoops! I know it’s still summer, but I’m totally ready for fall since we’ve had a HOT summer and I’m dreaming of cooler temps.

Whether you enjoy this recipe now or wait until actual fall… the combo of roasted acorn squash, crispy pancetta, sweet shallots, tart apples, and creamy goat cheese is undeniably GOOD and you will love it!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 acorn squash ends trimmed, halved, seeded, and sliced into small arches (see photo)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• healthy pinch of salt and pepper x 2
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 4 oz diced pancetta
• 1 shallot minced
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• ¼ tsp ground sage
• 2 flatbreads, about 14oz total
• 6 tbsps whipped cream cheese
• ½ large apple, halved, cored, and thinly sliced
• 4 oz crumbled goat cheese
• 4 oz shredded mozzarella
• Honey for drizzling

How to make Roasted Acorn Squash, Apple, and Pancetta Flatbreads

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2:

Arrange acorn squash slices on the prepared baking sheet then coat with one tablespoon of olive oil, ground nutmeg, and a healthy pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat, then roast in the oven until tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 3:

Meanwhile, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a small-ish skillet over medium heat. Once oil is hot, add the diced pancetta, minced shallot, minced garlic, ground sage, and a healthy pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to mix up, then sauté until pancetta is crispy and shallots/garlic are very fragrant, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4:

Spread 3 tablespoons of whipped cream cheese on each flatbread, leaving a ½-inch border sauce-less as the crust. Top the whipped cream cheese with thinly sliced apples, roasted acorn squash, then the crispy pancetta/shallot mixture. Finally, sprinkle goat cheese and shredded mozzarella over the top of both flatbreads.

Step 5:

Bake flatbreads in the oven until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden, about 10-13 minutes. Remove from the oven, drizzle honey over top, then slice and serve!

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Oven
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Spoon or a spatula to spread cream cheese
• Oven mitts
• Serving plate or pizza cutter

WHAT TO EAT WITH THIS ROASTED ACORN SQUASH, APPLE, AND PANCETTA FLATBREADS

The first time I made these Roasted Acorn Squash, Apple, and Pancetta Flatbreads, I wasn’t sure how my kids would react. But something about the caramelized squash and crispy pancetta on soft bread just worked; even my little one asked for seconds.

One time, I used coconut milk in the dough, a tip I picked up while adjusting for my own food sensitivities, and it added a subtle richness. We served them alongside the Peach Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken, fresh and full of color.

For breakfast, the Mixed Berry Banana Smoothie Bowl is our go-to, especially after school mornings. I also love pairing these flatbreads with Summer Corn Goat Cheese Pasta Salad, Toasted Coconut Bran Muffins, or Corn Tacos, and of course, Lemonade Watermelon Juice Recipe as a drink. A little feast that feels effortless.

FAQ

What are these Pancetta Flatbreads made of?

These Pancetta Flatbreads include roasted acorn squash, apple slices, pancetta, shallots, garlic, cheeses, and flatbread, all topped with honey.

What does roasted acorn squash, apple, and pancetta flatbread taste like?

Pancetta Flatbreads taste salty. The squash is soft, the apple adds freshness, and the pancetta makes it savory.

Can I make these Pancetta Flatbreads vegetarian?

Yes.

What type of apple works best?

A sweet apple, like Honeycrisp or Gala, works great.

Can I use a different squash?

Sure.

What is pancetta?

Pancetta is Italian-style bacon that’s salty and a little fatty.

Can I use regular cream cheese?

Yes.

Can I prep any of this ahead of time?

Yes.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Pop them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

Is this good for a party or get-together?

Absolutely.