Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted squash with savory Italian sausage and fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only perfect for cozy family dinners but also makes a stunning centerpiece for gatherings. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and herbs creates a deliciously hearty filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize the filling to include your favorite vegetables or spices, making it suitable for various tastes.
• Nourishing Meal: Packed with nutrients from the acorn squash and kale, this dish is not only satisfying but also healthy.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful presentation of the stuffed squash halves makes this dish perfect for serving at special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating a delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Non-stick skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking sheet: Provides ample space for roasting the acorn squash evenly without overcrowding.
• Non-stick skillet: Ensures that your filling cooks thoroughly without sticking, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

You need just 10 ingredients to make this delicious Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash! Perfectly roasted squash is filled with Italian sausage, colourful vegetables and topped with parmesan. It’s a nourishing meal that’s quick enough for weeknights!

For the Squash

• 2 medium acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for brushing onto the squash

For the Filling

• 1 yellow onion, small dice
• 1 red bell pepper, small dice
• 2 stalks celery, small dice
• Salt and pepper
• 1-2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme (or half a teaspoon dried)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb mild or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups torn curly kale
• ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided

How to Make Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400 °F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Acorn Squash

1. Slice a small piece off the top and bottom of each squash so they can sit upright.
2. Cut each acorn squash in half width-wise (not through the stem) to achieve a pretty scalloped edge.
3. Scrape out the seeds with a spoon.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

1. Place the squash halves on the baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
2. Turn them upside down (seed side down) and roast for about 25 minutes or until fork tender.

Step 4: Make the Filling

1. In a large non-stick skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent (about 3-5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in chopped thyme followed by minced garlic and sausage. Cook for an additional 8 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Add Kale to Filling

1. Place torn kale on top of the sausage mixture in the skillet.
2. Cover to steam for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
3. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese then remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble and Broil

1. Once roasted, take out the squash from the oven and turn up to broil.
2. Flip each squash bowl side up; fill generously with sausage mixture.
3. Sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese on top.

Step 7: Final Broil

Broil for about 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted but not overly browned. Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash!

How to Serve Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash makes a striking and delicious main course that is both filling and nutritious. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

For a Cozy Dinner

• Warm Bread Rolls – Serve with freshly baked bread rolls for a comforting addition to the meal.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly, adding a delightful crunch.

With a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the squash.
• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and flavor that complements the stuffed squash.

As Part of a Feast

• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring more color and nutrients to your table.
• Quinoa or Rice Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf can absorb the flavors from the stuffing and add heartiness.

How to Perfect Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

Getting your Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash just right can elevate this dish even further. Here are some tips for perfection.

• Boldly Season Your Filling – Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Incorporating fresh thyme or other herbs can brighten the taste profile significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Kale – Steam until just wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Mind the Broiling Time – Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to achieve that perfect golden melt without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these complementary side dishes that pair beautifully with Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the squash.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until crispy, these sprouts add a wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
3. Buttery Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds freshness, making it a delightful side for this hearty dish.
4. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous with olives and feta creates a refreshing Mediterranean twist.
5. Zucchini Noodles – Light zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil offer a low-carb option that’s still satisfying.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Aromatic rice pilaf seasoned with herbs enhances the meal’s overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure that your squash roasts perfectly.

• Overcrowding the Skillet: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for even sautéing.

• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning your filling can make the dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper for flavor.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking times vary by oven. Keep an eye on your squash and filling to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

• Forgetting to Steam the Kale: Skipping the steaming step may leave kale tough and unappealing. Cover it while cooking to ensure it wilts nicely.

• Not Storing Properly: Improper storage can affect freshness. Use airtight containers to keep leftovers safe in the fridge.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 4 days for best quality.

Freezing Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

• Wrap each squash half tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to choose chicken, turkey, or beef sausage based on your preference.

How do I know when the acorn squash is done?

The squash is done when it’s fork-tender, meaning a fork easily pierces through its flesh without resistance.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Customize with your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative works well for those avoiding dairy products while maintaining flavor.

How do I reheat leftovers properly?

Follow the reheating instructions provided earlier to ensure your stuffed squash maintains its deliciousness!

Final Thoughts

Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful blend of flavors that makes any meal feel special. It’s perfect for weeknights yet versatile enough for gatherings. Feel free to customize it with different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences!

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Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

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Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash is a flavorful and nourishing dish that perfectly marries the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with a hearty filling made from savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe not only offers an impressive presentation but is also adaptable to fit various taste preferences. With just 10 ingredients and easy preparation steps, it’s a delightful meal that everyone will love.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 stalks celery
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh thyme
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 lb chicken, turkey, or beef sausage
• 2 cups torn curly kale
• ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut each acorn squash in half width-wise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil.
3. Place the squash halves cut side down on the baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes until fork-tender.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery; sauté until soft.
5. Stir in thyme, garlic, and chicken, turkey, or beef sausage; cook until browned.
6. Add kale to the skillet and cover for a few minutes until wilted. Mix in half of the parmesan cheese.
7. Turn the squash cut side up, fill generously with the sausage mixture, top with remaining cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed acorn squash half (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg