Stuffed Delicata Squash

Stuffed Delicata Squash is a show-stopping dish that combines the natural sweetness of delicata squash with a savory, hearty filling.

This versatile recipe is perfect as a main course or a side dish, and it’s ideal for cozy dinners or holiday celebrations. The tender squash serves as an edible bowl, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients Overview

• Delicata Squash: Known for its sweet, nutty flavor and edible skin.
• Filling: A combination of grains, vegetables, and protein, tailored to your preferences.
• Herbs and Spices: Add depth and warmth to the filling.
• Cheese (optional): Melty cheese for a golden, bubbly topping.

Ingredients

• 2 medium delicata squash
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 lb ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa, rice, or farro
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan or mozzarella (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
   • Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   • Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
   • Stir in the ground protein, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
   • Mix in the cooked grains, spinach, dried cranberries, nuts, smoked paprika, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the Squash:
   • Remove the roasted squash from the oven and flip them over.
   • Spoon the filling into each squash half, pressing gently to pack it in.
   • If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
4. Bake the Stuffed Squash:
   • Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or sage, and serve warm.

Recipe Tips

• Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground meat for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
• Prep Ahead: Cook the grains and filling in advance to save time. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
• Add a Sauce: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to round out the meal.
• Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, acorn or small butternut squash work well as substitutes.

Can I freeze stuffed delicata squash?
Yes, wrap the fully cooked squash in foil or an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Add roasted vegetables, beans, or your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Stuffed Delicata Squash

Stuffed Delicata Squash is a show-stopping dish that combines the natural sweetness of delicata squash with a savory, hearty filling.

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Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 2 medium delicata squash
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 lb ground turkey chicken, or plant-based protein
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa rice, or farro
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins optional
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan or mozzarella optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
• Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
• Cook the Filling:
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
• Stir in the ground protein, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
• Mix in the cooked grains, spinach, dried cranberries, nuts, smoked paprika, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stuff the Squash:
• Remove the roasted squash from the oven and flip them over.
• Spoon the filling into each squash half, pressing gently to pack it in.
• If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
• Bake the Stuffed Squash:
• Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve:
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or sage, and serve warm.