Nora
Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash is the ultimate comfort dish for fall and winter dining. With its tender roasted squash, savory stuffing, and a hint of sweetness, this dish is both hearty and elegant. Each bite combines creamy squash flesh with flavorful filling, making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
What makes this recipe shine is its versatility. You can keep it vegetarian with grains and veggies or load it with sausage or ground turkey for a protein-rich meal. The colorful presentation and cozy aroma make it a showstopper on any table, whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or just a cozy weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash
This dish is a perfect mix of health and flavor. Acorn squash is naturally rich in vitamins and fiber, while the stuffing provides a balance of protein and carbs, keeping you full and satisfied. It’s also a great make-ahead option—prepare the squash and filling separately, then bake when ready.
It’s not just delicious; it’s visually stunning. The bright orange squash, golden-baked filling, and garnishes like fresh herbs or pomegranate seeds make it look as good as it tastes. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste—sweet, savory, or somewhere in between.
What Kind of Squash Works Best for Stuffing?
While acorn squash is ideal because of its natural bowl shape and slightly sweet flavor, you can substitute with delicata or small sugar pumpkins if needed. But for the best presentation and creamy texture, acorn squash remains the top choice.
Ingredients for the Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash
Each ingredient plays an important role in making this dish flavorful and satisfying. The squash acts as the natural edible bowl, while the filling layers provide depth of flavor and texture.
- Acorn Squash – The star of the dish, offering a sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture when roasted.
- Olive Oil – Helps caramelize the squash and adds richness.
- Ground Sausage or Turkey – Provides savory protein and depth of flavor.
- Onion & Garlic – Aromatics that bring out the heartiness of the stuffing.
- Cooked Rice or Quinoa – Adds body to the stuffing and makes it filling.
- Dried Cranberries or Pomegranate Seeds – For a pop of sweetness and color.
- Parmesan or Feta Cheese – Adds creaminess and a salty bite.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Thyme, or Sage) – Bring freshness and aroma to balance the richness.
How To Make the Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash
Step 1: Roast the Squash to Perfection
Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F for about 40 minutes, until fork-tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Savory Filling
In a skillet, cook the sausage or turkey until browned. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Stir in cooked rice or quinoa, herbs, and a handful of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the stuffing mixture generously into each roasted squash half. Sprinkle with Parmesan or crumbled feta. Return to the oven for 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley and a few extra pomegranate seeds for a burst of color before serving.
Serving and Storing This Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash
This recipe yields 4 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a stunning presentation.
For storage, let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its texture.
What to Serve With Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash?
1. Garlic Butter Green Beans
The crisp, garlicky flavor balances the richness of the stuffed squash.
2. Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A warm, comforting soup pairs perfectly with this fall-inspired dish.
3. Crusty Artisan Bread
Use it to soak up any juices from the squash and stuffing.
4. Simple Garden Salad
A fresh, tangy salad adds brightness to the meal.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
The caramelized, slightly sweet sprouts complement the earthy squash.
6. Cranberry Walnut Salad
The fruity tang enhances the subtle sweetness of the squash.
7. Mashed Potatoes with Herb Butter
For an extra hearty pairing, creamy potatoes never fail.
8. Honey Glazed Carrots
A touch of sweetness rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?
If you love this Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash, you’ll enjoy these other comforting favorites:
• Easy Veggie Patties – A Crispy, Flavorful Delight
• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• A Hearty and Comforting Tuscan Bean Soup
• Sweet Potato Casserole – A Comforting Classic
• Cheesy Zucchini Casserole – A Comforting Delight
Save This Pin For Later
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add sausage, or keep it vegetarian? Did you experiment with different grains or cheeses?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and eat cozier.
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Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces ground sausage or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage, chopped
- to taste salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut squash, scoop seeds, brush with oil, season, and roast for 40 minutes.
- Cook sausage or turkey until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in rice or quinoa, herbs, and cranberries or pomegranate seeds; season to taste.
- Stuff roasted squash halves, top with cheese, and bake for 10–15 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.