Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe – A Cozy, Nutritious, and Flavorful

Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe -The Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe is a comforting, wholesome dish that perfectly captures the warmth and coziness of autumn and winter. Acorn squash, with its naturally sweet and nutty flavor, serves as an edible bowl filled with a savory stuffing made from grains, vegetables, herbs, and sometimes protein like lentils, chickpeas, or sausage. This dish strikes the perfect balance between nutrition, taste, and presentation.

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Recipe Details

• Cuisine: American

• Course: Main Course / Side Dish

• Servings: 4

• Calories: ~340 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 20 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet or roasting pan

• Sharp knife and sturdy spoon (for cutting and scooping squash)

• Large mixing bowl

• Medium skillet or sauté pan

• Small saucepan (for cooking grains)

• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)

• Basting brush (for oil)

Ingredients

For the Acorn Squash

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Stuffing

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (or wild rice, brown rice, or couscous)

• ½ cup chopped mushrooms

• ½ cup chopped spinach or kale

• ¼ cup dried cranberries or chopped apples (for a hint of sweetness)

• ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage, chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Acorn Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cut each acorn squash in half from stem to tip using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon.

3. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

4. Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. Roast for 25–30 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

6. Remove from the oven and carefully flip them over. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

💡 Tip: For deeper flavor, brush the inside with a mix of olive oil and a drizzle of maple syrup before roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Quinoa (or Grain Base)

7. While the squash is roasting, cook your quinoa according to package directions (about 1 cup cooked).

8. You can substitute other grains like wild rice, brown rice, or couscous, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing

• In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.

• Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.

• Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they release moisture and turn golden.

• Stir in the spinach or kale, cooking until wilted.

• Add cooked quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and herbs. Mix well.

• Drizzle with maple syrup and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to let flavors combine.

💡 Optional: For a heartier version, add cooked lentils, black beans, or vegan sausage crumbles.

Step 4: Stuff the Squash

• Spoon the warm stuffing mixture into the roasted squash halves.
• Pack it gently and mound it slightly on top for a full presentation.
• Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to warm through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with vegan parmesan/feta if desired.

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

• Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Acorn Squash

Choose small to medium squash: They’re sweeter and more tender than large ones.
Don’t over-roast: The squash should hold its shape when stuffed.
Add crunch: Top with roasted seeds or breadcrumbs before serving.
Make it ahead: Roast the squash and make the filling a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Add protein: Try chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, or lentils for a filling vegan meal.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe is a beautiful celebration of seasonal ingredients — a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors. With tender roasted squash and a hearty, nutrient-rich filling, it’s both satisfying and visually stunning.