Chili Squash
A hearty stuffed acorn squash filled with chili, topped with cheese and baked to perfection. Perfect for cozy dinners and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the acorn squash in half and set it up in a pan.
- You may need to slice a little off the bottom to keep it from rolling.
- Bake at 300°F until tender, adding a little water while cooking to keep the squash moist.
- Divide the chili into each squash half.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the chili-filled squash halves.
- Put the squash back into the oven until the cheese is melted.
- Add chopped onions on top, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion before adding it to the chili mixture. If you don’t have acorn squash, other winter squashes like butternut or spaghetti squash work well too. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the beans. Vegetarian recipes often shine with hearty ingredients, so feel free to incorporate corn or bell peppers for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili squash halves as a main dish or as a hearty side. They pair beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside Hot Ham Sandwiches for a satisfying lunch or dinner option. A dollop of sour cream or avocado on top adds creaminess to each bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the squash halves in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain the texture. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be cautious as this may make the squash a bit mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Squash contains roughly 104 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 use canned beans for this recipe?
Yes, canned beans are a convenient option. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before using to reduce sodium content. This can save you time and effort in preparing the dish, making it quicker to assemble.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the chili mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking, allowing the heat to meld with the flavors as it cooks.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Chili squash is great for meal prep. You can prepare the squash and chili mixture ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. This not only saves time during busy weeks but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).