Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffed Butternut Squash – A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Fall Favorite

If you're looking for the perfect dish that celebrates fall flavors and brings comfort to the table, look no further! This Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffed Butternut Squash is an irresistible combination of savory sausage, sweet apples, and tangy cranberries all stuffed into the rich and tender roasted butternut squash. It's not only packed with flavor but also nutritious and gorgeous to serve. Perfect for cozy dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you're craving something both hearty and wholesome.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffed Butternut Squash

Fall brings a bounty of flavors that naturally belong together, like apples, squash, and cranberries. This recipe marries all of those seasonal favorites into a stunning dish that's bursting with warmth and heartiness. The savory sausage perfectly complements the sweetness of the apples and cranberries, while kale adds a touch of freshness, and the butternut squash serves as a tender, subtly sweet vessel that ties everything together. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a satisfying fall meal, this stuffed squash will hit the spot.

Why Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffed Butternut Squash Will Be Your New Favorite

This stuffed butternut squash is the perfect balance of flavors and textures—savory, sweet, salty, and slightly tangy, with a mix of soft and crunchy textures. The combination of ground Italian sausage, crisp Honeycrisp apples, and tart cranberries creates a delicious stuffing that pairs beautifully with the creamy butternut squash. And don't forget the finishing touch of melted Parmesan, which adds just the right amount of cheesy goodness. Not only is it a flavor explosion, but it's also a well-balanced meal packed with nutrients and is visually stunning to serve.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 17g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fiber: 7g

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This stuffed butternut squash is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for an even more complete meal. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top to complement the sweetness of the cranberries and apples. A glass of chilled white wine or a warm apple cider would also make perfect companions to this dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through. This dish also freezes well—just wrap each squash half tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.

Fun Fact: The Origins of Stuffed Squash

Stuffing vegetables with delicious fillings is a cooking tradition that dates back centuries, across various cultures and cuisines. From stuffed peppers to eggplant and squash, it's a great way to create a complete meal by combining proteins, veggies, and grains all in one edible vessel. Stuffed butternut squash has gained popularity in recent years as a seasonal favorite for its hearty, nutritious qualities and versatility in flavor combinations.

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Cooking Tips

• Make It Extra Cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, add more Parmesan or even mix in some shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy topping.
• Customize Your Sausage: If you prefer a different type of sausage, feel free to use sweet Italian, turkey, or even a spicy chorizo for a kick.
• Add More Veggies: For added nutrition and color, toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms into the stuffing mixture.

Optional Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for a plant-based sausage or even quinoa for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as hearty and delicious.
• Sweet and Savory: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the squash before serving.
• Nutty Addition: Add some toasted pecans or walnuts to the stuffing mixture for a crunchy twist.

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Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 medium butternut squash
• 1 lb. Italian ground chicken sausage (hot or mild, your preference)
• ¾-1 Honeycrisp apple, cored & diced
• ½ medium white onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 cups green kale, chopped & packed
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Cut the stems off both butternut squash and halve them lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds, then place the halves on the baking pan cut-side up. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Flip the squash cut-side down and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the squash is easily pierced with a fork.
3. While the squash is baking, prepare your stuffing. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Add the diced onions and garlic, cooking until tender, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the sausage, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the sausage until browned and crumbly.
5. Stir in the diced apples, chopped kale, and cranberries. Cook until the apples soften and the kale wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Once the squash is done, carefully scoop out some of the insides, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Set the scooped squash aside (you can save it for another recipe).
7. Divide the sausage-apple stuffing evenly among the squash halves. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Broil for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. Serve immediately, and enjoy the blend of savory, sweet, and spiced flavors!

Sausage, Apple, and Cranberry Stuffed Butternut Squash is the perfect fall meal that’s bursting with flavor, color, and warmth. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it as a show-stopping dish at a special gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress. The balance of sweet apples, savory sausage, and tangy cranberries all stuffed into roasted squash makes this a dish you'll want to make again and again!