Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed acorn squash offers a comforting, savory filling of lean pork, vegetables, and spices, all nestled inside tender roasted squash. The combination of curry, cinnamon, and applesauce creates a warm, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, appealing to both meat lovers and vegetable enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds. Bake cut-side down at 350°F for 50 minutes.
- While the squash bakes, cook the lean pork, chopped celery, and chopped onion in a skillet until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender.
- Drain the excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in salt, curry powder, and a dash of cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in the unsweetened applesauce and bread cubes.
- Place the stuffing into the baked squash halves.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the lean pork with cooked quinoa or lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of the applesauce for added flavor. To enhance the spices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. Ensure the squash is tender by testing with a fork before stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed acorn squash warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a grain dish such as quinoa or brown rice, complementing the flavors of the stuffed squash.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Acorn Squash contains roughly 505 calories, with 27g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute acorn squash with butternut squash or even delicata squash. Just adjust the baking time as needed, since different squashes have varying cooking times. Ensure the squash is tender before stuffing it.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and bake the squash in advance. Simply stuff the squash and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it again. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with stuffed acorn squash?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, serve with holiday ham balls or roasted vegetables to create a beautiful spread.
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).