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Autumn Stuffed Acorn Squash

This dish features halved acorn squash baked until tender, filled with a savory mixture of cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and herbs. The final presentation showcases the roasted, caramelized edges of the squash combined with a hearty, textured stuffing that is both rustic and inviting.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Autumn
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 small acorn squash halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked grains (quinoa or rice) cooled
  • 1 cup roasted vegetables chopped, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing and mixing
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage or fresh, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon for warming flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Sharp Knife
  • Spoon
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each acorn squash in half from stem to tail and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
  3. Brush the cut sides of the squash with a little olive oil, then place them cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven until tender and caramelized around the edges, about 40-45 minutes.
  4. While the squash roasts, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked grains, roasted vegetables, dried sage, cinnamon, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix everything together until well blended and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Once the squash halves are tender, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly. Then, gently flip each squash half over and scoop some of the flesh into the bowl with the filling, slightly mashing it to create a thicker mixture.
  6. Fill each squash half with the prepared grain and vegetable mixture, pressing lightly to pack the filling in.
  7. Return the stuffed squash halves to the baking sheet and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the filling is heated through and slightly browned on top.
  8. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.