Description
Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Feta
A spicy twist for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients:
1 butternut squash
2 cups spinach
1/2 cup feta cheese
4 slices spicy bacon, crumbled
1 tsp chili powder
1 tbsp olive oil
Preparation:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Halve squash, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with chili powder.
Roast for 35 minutes.
Sauté spinach and mix with feta.
Fill squash and top with spicy bacon; bake for 10 more minutes.
Tip: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the spice.
#SpicyStuffedSquash
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center.
3. Brush the cut sides of the squash generously with olive oil. Sprinkle the chili powder evenly over the surface, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
4. Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the squash roasts, cook the spicy bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then crumble. In the same skillet, sauté the spinach in the residual bacon fat until just wilted.
6. Remove the squash from the oven and flip the halves over. Fluff the tender flesh slightly with a fork. Combine the sautéed spinach with the crumbled feta cheese.
7. Divide the spinach and feta mixture between the two squash halves, packing it in. Top generously with the crumbled spicy bacon.
8. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to warm through.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a hearty main course on its own. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. As noted, a cool dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream is the perfect garnish to balance the spice. For a heartier plate, add a serving of quinoa or crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
How-to Summary
Halve and seed a butternut squash, season with oil and chili powder, and roast cut-side down at 400°F for 35 minutes. Sauté spinach and mix with feta. Fill the tender squash halves with the mixture, top with cooked, crumbled spicy bacon, and bake for 10 more minutes. Serve with Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely. Omit the bacon and sauté the spinach in olive oil. Consider adding smoked paprika to the chili powder for a hint of smoky flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftover stuffed squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain texture.
What type of butternut squash works best? Choose a medium-sized squash that feels heavy for its size, with a firm, matte skin. This ensures a good flesh-to-cavity ratio for stuffing.
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. Goat cheese or a sharp cheddar would be excellent substitutes for feta, though they will alter the flavor profile.
Is there a way to speed up the roasting time? You can microwave the halved squash for 5 minutes before brushing with oil and roasting. This will reduce the oven time by 10-15 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid under-roasting the squash initially, as it won’t be tender enough to eat easily. Do not overstuff the halves, as the filling may spill and burn. Be cautious with the chili powder if your bacon is very spicy—taste and adjust. Finally, ensure the bacon is fully crisped before crumbling, as soggy bacon will not provide the desired texture contrast.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Feta is a masterful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, all contained in a natural, edible bowl. It’s a visually impressive yet straightforward dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an autumnal gathering. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a perfectly balanced, delicious meal that is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
