Stuffed Squash(Yellow Or Zucchini)
A savory stuffed squash dish featuring seasoned ground meat, rice, and spices, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests craving comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Carefully scoop out pulp and seeds from each squash.
- Mix half the tomato paste and 1/2 cup water with the uncooked hamburger, rice, cinnamon, parsley, allspice, and pepper.
- Fill each squash with the meat and rice mixture.
- Mix the remaining tomato paste with water and pour over the stuffed squash.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 25 to 30 minutes until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with lentils or black beans. If you prefer a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños to the filling. Ensure the squash are tender by checking them during the last few minutes of cooking. Marinated Cabbage Salad makes a refreshing side to balance the flavors of the stuffed squash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed squash warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor. Pair with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This dish is perfect alongside a bowl of Zuppa Di Ceci(Chickpea Soup) for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed squash in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Squash(Yellow Or Zucchini) contains roughly 311 calories, with 12g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 10g 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 stuffed squash in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed squash ahead of time. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are chilled when you start.
What type of squash is best for this recipe?
Yellow squash and zucchini are both great options for stuffing. Choose squash that are firm and free of blemishes, ideally around 5 inches long. They should have a good shape to hold the filling.
Can I freeze stuffed squash?
Yes, stuffed squash can be frozen. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.
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).