Stuffed Acorn Squash

[clintonbee]

I recently tried making stuffed acorn squash, and it turned out to be a comforting, hearty dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner. The squash gets tender and slightly sweet when roasted, and the filling is a delicious mix of savory and sweet flavors. It's easy to put together, and the results are so satisfying.

Ingredients:​

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground sausage (or turkey, for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 apple, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:​

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 40 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare the Filling: While the squash is roasting, heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Cook the Sausage: Add the ground sausage to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Mix in the Goodies: Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the diced apple, dried cranberries, cooked quinoa (or rice), pecans, and cinnamon. Cook everything together for a few more minutes, just until the apples start to soften. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff the Squash: When the squash is done roasting, take them out of the oven and flip them over. Spoon the sausage mixture into each squash half, packing it in nicely.
6. Bake Again: Put the stuffed squashes back in the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until everything is heated through and slightly golden on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let them cool slightly before serving. These are great on their own or paired with a simple green salad.

Conclusion:​

This stuffed acorn squash is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with the sausage adding a nice hearty touch while the apples and cranberries bring in a hint of sweetness. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening. If you’re looking for something that’s both comforting and a little different, this one’s definitely worth trying.

 

[Ui Ui]

Wow, that stuffed acorn squash sounds like a total win—love the sweet and savory vibe you’ve got going on! Thanks for the inspo; definitely gonna try this one out!

 

[ReeseTaki]

Stuffed acorn squash is such a cozy dish! Love how it’s hearty and healthy all in one.

 

[Dom]

wow! looks yummmy!