Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash That Will Warm Your Soul – A Savory, Sweet, and Satisfying Fall Favorit

Fall is the perfect time to embrace the hearty flavors of roasted acorn squash stuffed with a savory mixture of sausage, apples, and fresh herbs. This delicious stuffed roasted acorn squash combines the sweetness of roasted squash with the richness of seasoned sausage, tender apples, and fragrant herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors that are perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash

Stuffed squash is a classic fall dish that brings together seasonal ingredients in a way that’s both hearty and healthy. The combination of roasted acorn squash with savory sausage and the sweetness of apples and raisins (or cranberries) is inspired by the flavors of autumn. The use of fresh herbs like sage and rosemary enhances the richness of the sausage, while the roasted squash adds a comforting, tender texture. This dish is ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and festive holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash

This stuffed roasted acorn squash is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The roasted squash itself becomes tender and caramelized, creating the perfect vessel for the flavorful stuffing. The sausage adds richness, while the apples and raisins provide a touch of sweetness. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage infuse the entire dish with earthy, fragrant notes. It’s simple to prepare, yet looks elegant enough to impress at a dinner party.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 6g

This dish is a nutrient-rich option that’s both satisfying and wholesome. The acorn squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, while the sausage and vegetables add protein and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This stuffed roasted acorn squash can be enjoyed as a main course or served as a hearty side dish. For a well-rounded meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra fall flavor. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or wild rice for a more substantial meal. For a refreshing beverage pairing, try a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a spiced apple cider for a cozy autumn feel.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed squash halves in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze the stuffed squash for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Fun Fact: The Versatility of Acorn Squash

Acorn squash is not only delicious but also versatile in the kitchen. Its natural sweetness and creamy texture make it an excellent base for both savory and sweet dishes. Acorn squash can be roasted, pureed into soups, or even used as a stuffing vessel for dishes like this one. It’s a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

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Cooking Tips

Roast the Squash Until Tender: Be sure to roast the acorn squash long enough so that it becomes tender and easy to eat. The squash should be soft when pressed but not mushy.

Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Depending on the type of sausage you use, you may want to adjust the amount of salt and pepper in the recipe. Taste the stuffing before filling the squash and adjust seasoning as needed.

Broil for a Crispy Top: For an extra touch of texture, broil the stuffed squash for a few minutes after baking to crisp up the top of the stuffing.

Optional Variations

• Vegetarian Stuffed Squash: Swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative or add lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian version.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing mixture for a bit of heat or drizzle some honey on top for extra sweetness.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the stuffing for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

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Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 acorn squash (small to medium)
• 2 tsp coconut oil or ghee (plus more for roasting)
• Sea salt (for roasting)
• 1 Tbsp coconut oil or ghee
• 1 lb pork sausage (casings removed, sugar-free for Whole30)
• 4 oz mushrooms (chopped)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 apple (diced, pink lady is a great choice)
• 1 Tbsp fresh sage leaves (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary leaves (minced)
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves (minced)
• 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries (fruit-sweetened for Whole30)
• Sea salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and strings, creating a “bowl” in the center.
2. Brush the tops of the squash halves with melted coconut oil or ghee and sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Place the squash face down on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are soft when pressed.
3. Prepare the Stuffing: While the squash roasts, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 Tbsp coconut oil or ghee. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.
4. Add the diced onions, celery, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sprinkle lightly with salt and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to prevent burning.
5. Add the diced apple, fresh herbs (sage, rosemary, thyme), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
6. Add the raisins or cranberries and browned sausage back into the skillet. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Stuff the Squash: Preheat the broiler. Place the roasted squash halves face-up on the baking sheet. Evenly fill each squash half with the stuffing mixture.
8. Broil for about 5 minutes, or until the tops of the stuffing and squash are nicely browned. Garnish with freshly minced parsley and serve hot.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed roasted acorn squash is the perfect dish to showcase the flavors of fall, blending savory sausage with sweet apples and fragrant herbs. It’s an easy yet elegant recipe that will impress at any gathering or make for a comforting dinner at home. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy seasonal produce or a dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in perfect harmony, this stuffed roasted acorn squash is sure to become a favorite!