Description

This Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash recipe combines the natural sweetness and nuttiness of roasted acorn squash with a savory, textured filling featuring quinoa or rice, vegetables, and protein. Perfect as a comforting, nutrient-packed meal, it is easy to prepare, versatile, and visually stunning, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Squash

2 medium acorn squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Grains

1 cup cooked quinoa or rice

Vegetables

1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, diced (optional)

Protein

1/2 pound ground turkey, sausage, or 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or protein of choice)

Herbs and Spices

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy twist

Cheese (optional)

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, feta, or Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Squash: Slice the acorn squash in half from stem to tip and scoop out the seeds and strings. Drizzle cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until tender but still firm.
Cook the Filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onions, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms until softened. Add your choice of protein (ground turkey, sausage, or chickpeas) and cook thoroughly. Season with herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Stir in cooked quinoa or rice and mix well until heated through.
Stuff the Squash: Turn the roasted squash halves cut-side up. Fill each cavity with the prepared filling mixture. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.
Bake to Perfection: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes to warm through and melt the cheese.
Garnish and Serve: Let the squash cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme before serving to add freshness and color.

Notes

Choose firm, heavy acorn squashes without soft spots for best roasting results.
Do not overcook the squash; it should be tender but hold shape.
Sauté vegetables and spices before mixing with grains for richer flavor.
Test squash tenderness by poking with a fork; it should be soft but not mushy.
Try different cheeses like sharp cheddar, goat cheese, or vegan alternatives for variety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 stuffed acorn squash half
Calories: 320
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: stuffed acorn squash, baked squash, quinoa stuffed squash, healthy comfort food, gluten free recipe, vegetarian option