Irresistible Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe for Cozy Nights

The aroma of roasted acorn squash wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket. Imagine the sweet, nutty flavor mingling with savory spices, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Stuffed acorn squash is not just food; it’s an experience that transforms your dining table into a festive celebration.

Every bite brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter. Picture this: my cousin tried to impress everyone with his fancy cooking skills, only to discover he forgot the main ingredient. But hey, stuffed acorn squash was our saving grace! Perfect for fall dinners or holiday feasts, this dish promises to make your taste buds dance.

Sharing this dish with my friends brought smiles and compliments all around.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Acorn Squash: Look for firm squash with a rich color; avoid any with blemishes for the best flavor.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it enhances the overall taste beautifully.

• Quinoa or Rice: Choose either whole grain quinoa for added protein or fluffy rice as your base.

• Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and spinach make excellent additions, adding color and nutrition.

• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg create warmth; don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

• Nuts or Seeds: Toasted pecans or sunflower seeds bring a delightful crunch to the stuffing.

• Cheese (optional): Feta or goat cheese adds creaminess; sprinkle it on top before baking for extra deliciousness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Roast Until Tender: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until fork-tender and golden brown.

Make Your Filling: While the squash roasts, cook quinoa or rice according to package instructions. In a pan over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until softened.

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in cooked quinoa or rice along with chopped spinach, toasted nuts or seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is coated in flavors.

Stuff the Squash: Once the acorn squash is done roasting, carefully flip them cut-side up. Generously fill each half with your flavorful mixture. If using cheese, sprinkle it generously on top.

Bake Again for Perfection: Return stuffed squash to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until heated through. The cheese should be melted and bubbly if included!

Enjoy every bite of this hearty stuffed acorn squash; it’s sure to impress anyone who sits at your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the acorn squash halves until tender, then prepare your filling while they cook. This multitasking approach saves time and ensures everything is ready simultaneously.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the grains in the filling with quinoa or rice, and add your favorite veggies or proteins. Personalizing the dish can make it even more enjoyable.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious texture and flavor.

Sometimes, I still remember when my friend thought stuffed acorn squash was just a fancy way to serve a pumpkin. Her surprised face after tasting it was priceless!

FAQ

What can I use instead of acorn squash?

You can use butternut squash or even bell peppers for stuffing.

Can I prepare stuffed acorn squash ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything and bake just before serving for freshness.

Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, stuffed acorn squash can easily be made vegetarian using plant-based ingredients.

Print

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Experience the comforting essence of stuffed acorn squash, a delightful dish that combines sweet, nutty flavors with savory spices. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, making it an ideal centerpiece for any meal. Each bite bursts with flavor and nostalgic warmth, ensuring memorable moments around the dining table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 acorn squashes (about 1 lb each)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or sunflower seeds (optional)
• 1/2 cup feta or goat cheese (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut acorn squashes in half and scoop out seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
2. Place squash halves cut-side down on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
3. While squash roasts, sauté onions and bell peppers in a pan over medium heat until softened.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa or rice, spinach, nuts/seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; mix well.
5. Flip roasted squashes cut-side up and fill each half generously with the mixture. Top with cheese if desired.
6. Bake again for another 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed squash half (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 15mg