Description
Delicious Stuffed Butternut Squash
Stuffed butternut squash is a classic fall dish that brings together the best of the season. With its vibrant color, sweet flavor, and creamy texture, butternut squash is the perfect base for a hearty stuffing of grains, nuts, and vegetables. This recipe is inspired by traditional harvest meals, where squash was often stuffed with a mix of whatever was available – grains, dried fruit, and herbs – creating a versatile and comforting dish. It’s not only visually impressive but also packed with flavors that bring warmth to cooler days.
1 large butternut squash
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Slice the butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds.
3. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes until tender.
5. Mix quinoa, walnuts, cranberries, and cinnamon.
6. Stuff roasted squash with the quinoa mixture.
7. Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Prep Time: 75 mins
Kcal: 290 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Use a sturdy spoon to scoop out all the seeds and stringy pulp from the center cavity.
2. Season & Roast: Place the squash halves cut-side-up on a baking sheet. Brush the exposed flesh generously with olive oil and season well with salt and black pepper. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is very tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Prepare the Filling: While the squash roasts, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly mixed.
4. Stuff & Finish: Once the squash is tender, remove it from the oven. Carefully spoon the quinoa mixture into the cavities, mounding it slightly. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to heat the filling through.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed squash makes a beautiful centerpiece for a vegetarian meal. Serve each half as a generous main course. For a complete dinner, pair it with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also works wonderfully as a hearty side dish alongside roasted chicken or pork. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for added color and flavor.
How-to Summary
Halve and seed a butternut squash, then roast it with oil, salt, and pepper until tender. Fill the roasted halves with a mixture of cooked quinoa, walnuts, dried cranberries, and cinnamon. Bake for an additional 10 minutes to warm the filling before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Roast the squash and prepare the filling separately. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stuff and do the final 10-minute bake just before serving.
What can I use instead of quinoa? Cooked rice, farro, or couscous are excellent substitutes. Use an equal amount of your chosen grain.
How do I know when the squash is perfectly roasted? The flesh should be easily pierced with a fork or knife and have lightly caramelized, golden-brown edges.
Can I use a different type of squash? Absolutely. Acorn, delicata, or carnival squash work well. Adjust roasting time as smaller squash may cook faster.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? We do not recommend freezing the assembled dish, as the squash texture can become watery. The cooked filling alone freezes well for up to 3 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underseasoning the Squash: The squash itself needs ample salt and pepper before roasting to build a flavorful base.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure the squash halves aren’t touching on the baking sheet for proper air circulation and even caramelization.
- Using Uncooked Quinoa: The quinoa must be fully cooked before mixing into the filling, as the final bake time is too short to cook it.
- Not Scooping Enough: Remove all seeds and strings to create a clean, deep cavity for maximum stuffing capacity.
Conclusion
This stuffed butternut squash is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty. It masterfully combines sweet, savory, and nutty elements into a dish that is as nutritious as it is comforting. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday table, its versatility and impressive presentation are sure to make it a seasonal favorite. Enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors of fall in every bite.