Stuffed Acorn Squash
Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the earthy goodness of acorn squash with a medley of savory ingredients? Look no further than our delectable Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe. In this mouthwatering creation, the sweetness of acorn squash is beautifully complemented by the richness of ground sausage, the nutty crunch of pistachios, and the tart burst of dried cranberries.
This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty, comforting meal. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to make Stuffed Acorn Squash and explore why you’ll absolutely love creating and savoring it.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Acorn Squash
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. With straightforward instructions, even budding chefs can whip up this recipe with confidence.
- Deliciously Balanced Flavors: Stuffed Acorn Squash brings together a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory sausage, while the pistachios add a delightful crunch, and dried cranberries provide a tart pop of flavor.
- Perfect for Various Occasions: Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner, a special holiday meal, or a potluck with friends, Stuffed Acorn Squash is a versatile choice. Its rustic elegance makes it a standout dish for any event.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Acorn squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. With this recipe, you get a wholesome and tasty meal in one.
- Satisfying and Filling: Thanks to the combination of squash and sausage, this dish is hearty and filling, making it suitable as a main course. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your meal.
What You Need To Make Stuffed Acorn Squash
- 1 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2lb ground sausage
- 1 celery rib, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 tsp ground sage
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 8oz mushrooms, diced
How To Make Stuffed Acorn Squash
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. This ensures that your acorn squash will cook evenly and become tender.
- Prepare the squash: Cut the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. This will create a hollow cavity in each half, ready to be stuffed with deliciousness.
- Season the squash: Drizzle olive oil over the acorn squash halves and sprinkle them with 1 tsp of kosher salt. This will enhance the flavor and help the squash roast to perfection.
- Prepare the filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground sausage, diced onion, and diced celery. The sausage will add a savory punch to the dish, while the onion and celery contribute a delightful crunch and aroma.
- Add the extras: Once the sausage is browned, it’s time to elevate the flavors. Add dried cranberries for a burst of tartness, ground sage for a hint of earthy aroma, chopped pistachios for a delightful crunch, and diced mushrooms for added depth.
- Mix and stuff: Stir the ingredients well to ensure they’re evenly mixed. Then, fill the hollow cavities of the acorn squash halves with this flavorful sausage mixture. Make sure to pack it in there nicely for a generous stuffing.
- Bake to perfection: Place the stuffed acorn squash halves in the preheated oven and let them bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
While acorn squash is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other winter squashes like butternut or kabocha if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground sausage with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices for a tasty vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply stuff the squash and bake it. It’s a convenient option for busy days.
What can I serve with Stuffed Acorn Squash?
Stuffed Acorn Squash makes for a hearty meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Equipment
- Skillet
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 acorn squash halved and seeds removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 lb ground sausage
- 1 celery rib diced
- 1 small onion diced
- 1/2 tsp ground sage
- 1/4 cup pistachios chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms diced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Drizzle olive oil over the acorn squash halves and sprinkle with 1 tsp of salt.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, onion, and celery.
- Once the sausage is browned, add dried cranberries, ground sage, pistachios, mushrooms, and the remaining salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Fill the acorn squash halves with the sausage mixture.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender.
Nutrition
Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, offering a taste sensation that’s both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is a fantastic choice for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
Plus, it’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a hearty and delicious meal. Don’t miss the opportunity to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a family favorite! So, roll up your sleeves, get your ingredients ready, and let’s start cooking this delectable Stuffed Acorn Squash.
