Perfect! Stuffed squash is a versatile, hearty dish that works as a side or a main, depending on the filling. You can stuff acorn, delicata, zucchini, or spaghetti squash with grains, vegetables, sausage, or even cheese. Here’s a classic, crowd-pleasing version:
Stuffed Squash
Ingredients (serves 2–4):
- 2 medium acorn or delicata squash
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked grains (quinoa, rice, or farro)
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or kale)
- ½ cup cooked sausage or ground turkey (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or sage
- Optional: ¼ cup toasted nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Instructions:
- Prep the squash:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
- Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast 25–30 minutes, until just tender.
- Prepare the filling:
- While squash roasts, heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Sauté onion and garlic 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chopped vegetables and cooked sausage (if using); cook until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in cooked grains, herbs, and half of the cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Stuff and bake:
- Flip the roasted squash cut-side up and spoon the filling into each half.
- Top with remaining cheese (and optional nuts).
- Return to the oven for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations:
- For a vegan version, skip meat and cheese; add extra nuts, seeds, or nutritional yeast for richness.
- Sweet-savory twist: Add dried cranberries or apples to the filling.
- For extra protein, stir cooked lentils or chickpeas into the filling.
If you want, I can give a “decadent comfort version” with creamy cheese sauce, bacon, and buttery topping—basically a squash that feels like a loaded casserole.
Do you want me to do that?
