Description
Ground Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash
Indulge in this cozy and hearty fall dish! Roasted acorn squash serves as a perfect base for a savory filling of seasoned ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, and herbs. The subtle sweetness of the squash pairs wonderfully with the savory filling, enhanced by a touch of soy sauce. Finished with melted gruyere, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome. Whether for a special dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe is perfect for enjoying the season’s flavors!
2 acorn squash, 1 tbsp avocado oil, salt & pepper, 1 tbsp butter, ½ cup sweet onion, ½ cup carrot, ½ cup celery, ½ lb ground turkey, 1 tsp garlic, ½ tsp sage, ½ tsp thyme, ¼ tsp pepper, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 cup gruyere cheese.
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400ºF.
2. Roast squash halves with oil, salt, and pepper for 40 mins.
3. Sauté onion, carrot, celery in butter, add turkey & spices.
4. Fill squash, top with cheese, and bake 15 mins.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: ~280 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut each acorn squash in half from stem to base and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Brush the cut sides with avocado oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Roast the Squash: Roast the squash halves for 40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and flip them over so the “bowls” are ready for filling. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
3. Make the Filling: While the squash roasts, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains. Stir in the minced garlic, sage, thyme, pepper, and soy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Assemble and Bake: Evenly divide the turkey mixture among the four roasted squash halves. Top each with a generous ¼ cup of shredded Gruyere cheese. Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each stuffed squash half as a complete, satisfying meal. For a lighter touch, pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. If you desire extra greens, sautéed kale or Swiss chard makes a perfect side. For a festive presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crispy fried sage leaves.
How-to Summary
Cut and roast acorn squash halves. Sauté a mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery), then brown ground turkey with herbs and soy sauce. Fill the roasted squash with the turkey mixture, top with Gruyere cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of squash? Yes, delicata or sweet dumpling squash are excellent alternatives. Adjust roasting time as needed based on size and thickness.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based ground “meat” or a mixture of cooked lentils and chopped mushrooms for a hearty filling.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Absolutely. Roast the squash and prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before the final bake.
What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese? Swiss, Fontina, or a sharp white cheddar are all great melting cheeses that will work well in this dish.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover stuffed squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid under-roasting the squash, as a firm base will be difficult to eat. Ensure the turkey filling is well-seasoned, as the squash itself is mild. Do not skip the step of flipping the squash after roasting; this creates a stable “bowl” for the filling. Finally, resist overfilling the squash, as the filling can spill over and burn during the final bake.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash is the epitome of a balanced, seasonal meal. It masterfully combines savory, sweet, and hearty elements into a beautiful, edible vessel. Simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive for guests, this recipe is a versatile keeper that celebrates the best of autumn’s produce. Enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of fall in every bite.