Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed acorn squash is a dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of autumn. With its naturally sweet and tender flesh, acorn squash provides the ideal edible “bowl” for hearty and flavorful fillings. This recipe pairs the squash with a savory stuffing made of grains, vegetables, herbs, and optionally sausage or ground turkey, creating a balanced combination of sweet, savory, and nutty notes. The golden roasted squash not only makes for a visually striking presentation but also ensures a comforting, nutrient-packed meal. What makes stuffed acorn squash truly appealing is its versatility—you can tailor the filling to suit different preferences, from vegetarian versions to meat-filled feasts. Whether served as a main course for a cozy dinner or as a festive side dish for holiday gatherings, this recipe delivers warmth, nutrition, and elegance with minimal effort. It’s a wholesome and satisfying way to celebrate seasonal produce.
Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe – A Cozy, Flavorful Autumn Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Roasted acorn squash stuffed with a savory mixture of grains, vegetables, herbs, and cheese — a wholesome and flavorful dish perfect for fall dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or wild rice
- 1/2 pound ground turkey or sausage (optional)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan or feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush acorn squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut side down on the baking sheet.
- Roast for 30–35 minutes, until squash is tender.
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. If using, cook ground turkey or sausage until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in apple, cranberries, nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cooked quinoa or rice and mix well. Remove from heat and stir in half the cheese.
- Flip roasted squash halves cut side up. Spoon stuffing mixture evenly into each half.
- Top with remaining cheese and return to oven for 10 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra grains or lentils.
- Can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
- Use butternut squash as an alternative to acorn squash.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Acorn Squash
The star of the dish, acorn squash provides a sweet, nutty flavor and a tender texture once roasted. Its natural cavity makes it perfect for stuffing.
Olive Oil
Brushed over the squash before roasting, olive oil enhances flavor and ensures a golden, caramelized finish.
Onion
Onions bring sweetness and aromatic depth to the stuffing, forming the base of the savory filling.
Celery
Celery adds crunch and earthy undertones, balancing the richness of the grains and protein.
Garlic
Garlic infuses the stuffing with bold flavor, complementing the sweetness of the roasted squash.
Cooked Grain (Rice, Quinoa, or Farro)
The grain adds bulk and heartiness to the stuffing, creating a balanced and filling dish.
Sausage or Ground Turkey (Optional)
For a protein boost, sausage or turkey adds richness and savory depth that contrasts beautifully with the squash.
Dried Cranberries
Cranberries introduce a touch of sweetness and tartness, brightening the overall flavor profile.
Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans)
Nuts add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the tender squash and savory filling.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, or Sage)
Herbs provide freshness and fragrance, tying together all the flavors of the stuffing.
Parmesan Cheese
A sprinkle of Parmesan lends a salty, umami-rich finish, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning both the squash and the stuffing to perfection.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30–35 minutes, until tender.
Meanwhile, prepare the stuffing. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened. If using sausage or ground turkey, add it to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Stir in the cooked grain, dried cranberries, nuts, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for a few minutes to allow flavors to combine.
Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and flip it cut side up. Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture generously into each squash half. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese melts and the tops are lightly golden.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or additional herbs if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings (using 2 medium acorn squashes). The total time is about 55 minutes, including 15 minutes of preparation and 40 minutes of roasting and finishing in the oven.
Storage/reheating
Leftover stuffed acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. The dish can also be frozen (without cheese topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Stuffed acorn squash offers endless flexibility. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and rely on grains, beans, and extra vegetables for heartiness. Lentils or chickpeas make excellent protein-rich alternatives.
If you prefer a sweeter filling, incorporate apples, raisins, or a drizzle of maple syrup before baking. To create a more indulgent dish, add crumbled goat cheese or feta to the stuffing mixture for a creamy, tangy twist.
Those who enjoy spice can incorporate chorizo or hot Italian sausage for a bolder flavor. For a Mediterranean-inspired version, use quinoa, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano in the stuffing.
You can also experiment with different nuts such as pistachios or almonds for unique textures and flavors. For added richness, stir in a bit of cream or top with melted mozzarella instead of Parmesan. The adaptability of this recipe ensures it can be customized for holidays, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep.
FAQs
Can I eat the skin of acorn squash?
Yes, the skin becomes tender when roasted, though some prefer to scoop out the flesh only.
Do I need to precook the stuffing before baking?
Yes, cooking the filling ingredients beforehand ensures proper flavor development and texture.
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Yes, butternut squash or delicata squash are excellent alternatives.
How do I know when the squash is done roasting?
The flesh should be fork-tender, easily pierced without resistance.
Can I make stuffed acorn squash ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the squash with stuffing, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains such as rice or quinoa.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What side dishes pair well with stuffed squash?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement this dish nicely.
Can I freeze stuffed acorn squash?
Yes, freeze without the cheese topping, then bake straight from frozen with added cheese.
Why is my squash watery after roasting?
Overcooking can release excess moisture—roast until just tender and avoid covering during baking.
Conclusion
Stuffed acorn squash is a cozy, flavorful dish that highlights the best of fall produce. With its sweet, tender squash paired with a savory, hearty filling, it strikes a perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Its versatility allows endless customization, making it suitable for vegetarian, vegan, or meat-filled variations. Elegant enough for holiday gatherings yet simple enough for weeknight meals, this recipe is a true seasonal staple. Once you try it, stuffed acorn squash is sure to become a favorite on your autumn and winter menu.
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