Stuffed butternut squash is one of those cozy, wholesome dishes that looks impressive but is actually pretty simple to make! 🧡🥄 It’s sweet, savory, and perfect for a hearty meal.
🍂 Stuffed Butternut Squash
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 1 large butternut squash, halved lengthwise & seeds removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Filling:
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1/2 lb ground beef, chicken, or sausage (optional)
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms or spinach (optional)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon or paprika
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
🔪 Instructions
- Roast the Squash
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Brush squash with olive oil, sprinkle with salt & pepper.
- Place cut-side down on a baking tray.
- Roast for 35–45 minutes until tender.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a pan, cook onion and garlic until soft.
- Add meat (if using) and cook until browned.
- Stir in cooked rice/quinoa, veggies, cranberries, nuts, and spices.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes to combine.
- Stuff the Squash
- Flip roasted squash over.
- Scoop out a little flesh (optional) and mix into filling.
- Fill each half generously with the mixture.
- Top with cheese if using.
- Bake Again
- Return to oven and bake another 10–15 minutes until heated through and slightly golden.
😋 Tips & Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip meat and add chickpeas or lentils
- Sweet & Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
- Extra Creamy: Mix in a spoon of cream cheese or yogurt
💡 Serving Idea: Pair with a simple salad or yogurt sauce for a balanced meal.
If you want, I can give you a super quick 30-minute version or a fully vegetarian high-protein stuffing idea that tastes amazing.
