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Stuffed Acorn Squash

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A beautiful and hearty dish where roasted acorn squash halves are filled with a savory mixture of grains, vegetables, and optional sausage or plant-based protein. Perfect for fall dinners or holiday tables.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 lb ground sausage or plant-based protein (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 apple, diced (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked quinoa, rice, or wild rice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or sage)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese or crumbled feta (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Brush the cut sides of acorn squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  3. Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until fork-tender.
  4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery; cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  5. Add garlic and sausage (if using); cook until sausage is browned and fully cooked.
  6. Stir in apple (if using), cooked grains, fresh herbs, cranberries, and nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Flip roasted squash cut-side up and stuff each half generously with filling.
  8. Top with shredded cheese if using, then return to oven and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
  9. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Make it vegetarian by omitting sausage or replacing it with lentils or mushrooms.
  • For a vegan version, skip cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Prep ahead: roast squash and prepare filling separately, then assemble and bake before serving.
  • Use pre-cooked grains to save time.
  • Add a splash of broth to the filling if it seems dry before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/stuffed-acorn-squash-2/