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–+ servings
Stuffed Acorn Squash

Delicious Stuffed Acorn Squash for Cozy Autumn Nights

Enjoy flavorful stuffed acorn squash filled with quinoa, sausage, and apples - a warm autumn delight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 squash halves
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Squash
  • 2 units Acorn Squash Choose firm, blemish-free squash for a sweet, creamy base.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Quinoa A gluten-free grain offering protein and nutty flavor.
  • 1 lb Italian Sausage Can swap for plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 units Apples Use tart varieties like Granny Smith.
  • 1 cup Celery Diced.
  • 1 unit Onion Diced.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Adds delightful contrast to the filling.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Thyme Dried or fresh.
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon Adds warm autumn flavors.
  • to taste Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
For Topping (Optional)
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Adds a rich crust.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • sharp knife
  • Spoon

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Carefully halve the acorn squashes and scoop out the seeds. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add crumbled Italian sausage, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until browned.
  4. Add diced onion and celery to the skillet, sauté for 3–4 minutes until onions are translucent.
  5. Mix in diced apples and dried cranberries, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until apples soften.
  6. Remove from heat and fold in the cooked quinoa. Mix until well combined.
  7. Stuff the squash halves with the filling mixture, pressing down to pack tightly.
  8. Optionally, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and return to oven for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squash halfCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Enjoy this hearty dish warm, perfect for cozy gatherings or a satisfying family meal.

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