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Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe - Delicious Meal Ideas

Let me tell you about a dinner that changed my perspective on healthy eating. Picture a kitchen filled with the essence of autumn, the rich colors of fall produce arranged beautifully. 
I stand there, knife in hand, ready to tackle what may seem daunting but is, in truth, a canvas for creativity. Enter, the stuffed butternut squash.
At first glance, it might appear to be just another vegetable dish. But let me assure you, it goes beyond that. This recipe is a culinary journey that marries flavors, textures, and colors. It’s about using fresh ingredients to build something so much more than the sum of its parts. 
It’s about creating memories and filling bellies with wholesome goodness. So, if you're curious about how to make this dish, read on!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Squash
  • 2 medium butternut squashes approximately 2 lbs each
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage mild
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 small golden onion finely chopped, about 1 cup
  • 4 ribs of celery diced, around 1 cup
  • 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp savory poultry blend seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/8 tsp coarse black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Marinade Ingredients
  • 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Method
 

Step 1: Preparing the Squash
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a sharp knife, slice the butternut squashes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. 
    Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
  1. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. 
    Add the ground sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This could take about 7-10 minutes.
Step 3: Add Greens and Combine
  1. Throw in the fresh spinach, and stir until it wilts down. This should take just a couple of minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in the walnuts, ¾ cup of cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, poultry seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a dash more salt and pepper. 
    Mix it well until everything is combined.
Step 4: Mix the Marinade
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, sea salt, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and cracked black pepper. This marinade will add a polished finish to the dish.
Step 5: Stuff the Squash
  1. Carefully flip the roasted squash halves over so they're cut-side up. Spoon the sausage mixture into each half, packing it in there generously. Drizzle the marinade over the top.
Step 6: Bake Again
  1. Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. Remove from heat and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Once baked, let the squash cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Pick Your Sausage: Feel free to use chicken or turkey sausage if you want a lighter option.
  • Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added for extra flavor.
  • Cheese Choices: If you are not a cheese lover, feel free to skip it or use dairy-free alternatives.
  • Add More Veggies: You can easily add mushrooms or bell peppers into the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Batch Preparation: Stuffed squash keeps well. Make several at once for easy meals throughout the week.