Apple Filled Acorn Squash
Warm acorn squash filled with sweet apple filling, walnuts, and orange peel creates a comforting fall dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
- Place the squash halves cut side down in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture. If you prefer a crunchier texture, substitute pecans for walnuts. Additionally, you can use any variety of apples such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. If you're short on time, pre-cooked acorn squash can be used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apple-filled acorn squash warm, drizzled with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You can also sprinkle some additional walnuts on top for extra crunch or serve alongside 'Big Orange' Party Punch for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the acorn squash halves in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Filled Acorn Squash contains roughly 1144 calories, with 5g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the acorn squash and filling a day ahead. Bake the squash until tender, then fill them with the apple mixture. Cover and refrigerate, then bake again just before serving to heat through.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar. However, sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work great too, depending on your taste preference.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by omitting the brown sugar or using a plant-based sweetener. Additionally, ensure that any added toppings like yogurt or whipped cream are dairy-free alternatives.
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).