Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash
This savory Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash transforms the classic autumn squash into a hearty and filling main dish. Combining the earthy flavors of sweet Italian turkey sausage with a medley of sautéed vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers, this recipe is perfect for cozy fall dinners. The gentle sweetness of the roasted squash pairs beautifully with the rich, savory stuffing, making this dish not just delicious but also visually appealing. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
acorn squash
2 large (halved and seeded)
canola oil
2 tablespoons
onion
1/2 medium (peeled and chopped)
fresh mushrooms
1 cup (sliced)
red bell pepper
1/4 cup (chopped)
garlic
1 teaspoon (minced)
sweet Italian turkey sausage
1 lb
Italian bread
1 slice (cubed (about 1 oz))
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (freshly grated, divided)
Instructions
1
Begin by halving the acorn squashes and removing the seeds. Place the squashes cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with 1/4 inch of water. Cover with plastic wrap.
2
Microwave on high for 15-20 minutes or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 50-60 minutes until soft.
3
While the squashes are cooking, heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
4
Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
5
Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Discard any remaining drippings in the skillet.
6
In the same skillet, add the sweet Italian turkey sausage. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat.
7
Add the sautéed vegetable mixture and cubed Italian bread to the sausage. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, then reduce the heat to medium. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to combine the flavors.
8
Once the squashes are cooked, carefully remove them from the microwave or oven and uncover. Turn the squashes cut-side up.
9
Spoon one-fourth of the sausage mixture into each acorn squash half, filling them generously.
10
Sprinkle the filled squashes with the freshly grated parmesan cheese.
11
Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting autumn dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash?
It is a savory autumn main dish featuring roasted acorn squash filled with sweet Italian turkey sausage, mushrooms, onions, and red bell peppers.
How many acorn squashes are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 large acorn squashes, which are halved to create four servings.
How do I prepare the acorn squash before cooking?
Begin by halving the squashes and removing the seeds from the center.
Can I cook the acorn squash in the microwave?
Yes, place them cut-side down in a dish with 1/4 inch of water, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave for 15-20 minutes.
What is the oven temperature and time for baking the squash?
Bake the squash in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes until soft.
How do I know when the squash is fully cooked?
The flesh should be tender when pierced with a fork.
What oil is used to sauté the vegetables?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of canola oil.
What vegetables are included in the stuffing mixture?
The stuffing includes onion, fresh mushrooms, red bell pepper, and garlic.
How long should I cook the onions and mushrooms?
Sauté the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes until they are softened.
When should I add the garlic and red bell pepper?
Add them to the skillet after the onions and mushrooms have softened, then cook for one additional minute.
Why should I drain the sautéed vegetables on paper towels?
Draining them helps remove excess moisture and drippings to ensure the stuffing has the right consistency.
What type of sausage is recommended?
The recipe specifies 1 lb of sweet Italian turkey sausage.
How do I cook the turkey sausage?
Cook it over medium-high heat while breaking it up with a spatula until it is browned and crumbly.
Do I need to drain the sausage after cooking?
Yes, you should drain any excess fat from the sausage once it is browned.
What kind of bread is used in the stuffing?
The recipe uses 1 slice (about 1 oz) of Italian bread, cubed.
How do I season the sausage and vegetable mixture?
Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
How long do I cook the combined stuffing ingredients?
Stir the sausage, vegetables, and bread cubes together and cook for about 3 minutes to combine the flavors.
How do I assemble the final dish?
Turn the cooked squashes cut-side up and spoon one-fourth of the sausage mixture into each half.
What is the final topping for the stuffed squash?
Sprinkle each filled squash half with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is tagged as a Thanksgiving and autumn recipe.
How much mushroom is needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of sliced fresh mushrooms.
How much garlic is used?
You will need 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
What is the amount of parmesan cheese required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided.
Is this a hearty meal?
Yes, it is described as a hearty and filling one-dish meal.
Can I use a different type of onion?
The recipe calls for a medium onion, but you could substitute other varieties if preferred.
What color bell pepper is best?
Red bell pepper is used in this recipe for its color and mild sweetness.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe utilizing turkey sausage and fresh vegetables.
Can I prepare this in advance?
While best served immediately, the components can be prepared ahead and assembled before the final heating.
What is the texture of the stuffing?
The stuffing is savory and rich, with texture provided by the crumbled sausage and cubed Italian bread.
How should I serve the Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash?
Serve it immediately while hot as a comforting autumn main dish.