Apple-Acorn Squash
A comforting baked acorn squash filled with a sweet apple mash, seasoned with nutmeg, perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Cut washed acorn squash in halves, lengthwise.
- Remove seeds from the squash.
- Brush the cut surface of each squash half with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Arrange the squash halves cut side down in a shallow pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until tender.
- Scoop the cooked squash from the shells and reserve 4 shells.
- Mash the squash and add 1/2 cup of applesauce, 2 tablespoons of butter, and nutmeg to taste.
- Lightly heap the mixture into the reserved shells.
- Bake until the tops are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or ginger to the squash mixture. If you're short on time, using pre-packaged applesauce can save you some prep work. You can also substitute the acorn squash with butternut squash if desired. Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as different ovens may vary. This dish can also be served alongside Sweet Potato Medallions for a delightful fall-themed dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed acorn squash as a hearty side dish or a vegetarian main course. It pairs well with a light salad dressed with Ranch Salad Dressing for a balanced meal. For a complete autumn feast, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad. This dish also makes an impressive addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave it for a quicker option. Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain the texture of the squash.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple-Acorn Squash contains roughly 364 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare acorn squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the squash ahead by baking and mashing it, then storing the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply fill the reserved shells and bake until heated through and browned.
What can I substitute for applesauce?
If you don't have applesauce, you can use mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin as a substitute. Both options will add a different flavor but maintain the moisture needed for the filling.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based butter or margarine and ensuring your applesauce is free of added sugars or preservatives. It remains delicious and satisfying while fitting within vegetarian recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).