There’s something truly magical about the way fall flavors come together. This stuffed delicata squash is a perfect example. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The tender, roasted squash cradles a savory filling. It’s a delightful combination that just tastes like autumn.
I love serving this stuffed delicata squash at casual dinners. It’s also wonderful for a special weeknight meal. It never fails to impress, and clean-up is surprisingly simple.
Why I Love This Recipe
Honestly, this stuffed delicata squash is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly flavorful. The combo of sausage, apple, and cranberries is pure autumn bliss. Plus, it looks so pretty on the plate. You can whip it up on a weeknight. It also feels special enough for guests. So many delicious benefits!
Stuffed Delicata Squash Ingredients
The magic of this stuffed delicata squash lies in its beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and earthy notes. It brings together simple ingredients for a robust flavor profile. This robust flavor makes my stuffed delicata squash a true seasonal star. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.
- Delicata Squash: The star of the show! Its edible skin and tender flesh make it perfect for stuffing and roasting.
- Italian Sausage: Choose hot or sweet. It provides a savory, spiced base for the filling.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a foundational flavor. They add depth to the sausage mixture.
- Apple: A fresh apple adds a touch of sweetness. It also contributes a pleasant tartness and moisture.
- Dried Cranberries: These little gems bring a chewy texture and a burst of tart-sweetness.
- Pecans: For a delightful nutty crunch. They perfectly complement the other filling ingredients.
- Sage: This herb adds an earthy, slightly peppery note. It’s a classic pairing with sausage and squash.
- Spinach: Wilts down to add color and nutrients. It balances the richness of the sausage.
- Quinoa or Rice: This adds heartiness and helps bind the filling together. It makes the stuffed delicata squash more substantial.
- Cheese: Gruyère or Parmesan melts beautifully. It adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
Substitutions and Tips
Don’t have all the specific ingredients? No problem! Feel free to swap out the Italian sausage for ground chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian crowd, a plant-based sausage or hearty lentils work wonders. If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts are a fantastic alternative. Any firm apple will do, like Honeycrisp or Gala. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan shredded cheese. You can also use a different herb like thyme instead of sage. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Remember to save your squash seeds; you can roast them for a crunchy snack! These little tweaks ensure your stuffed delicata squash is always perfect for you.
How to Make Stuffed Delicata Squash
Let’s get cooking! Making this stuffed delicata squash is straightforward. Each step builds flavor. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is. Follow along for delicious results.
Prepare the Squash
First, preheat your oven. Set it to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting. Slice your delicata squash in half. Scoop out all the seeds. A spoon works best here. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down. Use a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes. The squash should become tender. You can test this with a fork. This part of making stuffed delicata squash is easy.
Cook the Sausage Filling
While the squash roasts, start the filling. Get out a large skillet. Heat it over medium-high heat. Add one pound of Italian sausage. Cook it, breaking it up. Use a spoon or spatula. Cook until it’s nicely browned. Drain off any excess fat. Add one finely chopped small onion. Cook it until it softens. Stir in minced garlic. Add diced apple and dried cranberries. Toss in chopped pecans and sage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often. Finally, add four cups of fresh spinach. Cook just until it wilts. This rich sausage mixture smells amazing.
Assemble and Bake
Remove the sausage mixture from heat. Stir in one cup of cooked quinoa. Add half of the shredded cheese. Mix it all together well. Your squash should be tender now. Carefully flip the squash halves over. They are ready for stuffing. Fill each squash half generously. Spoon in that delicious sausage mixture. Make sure to get plenty in each one. Top each filled squash half. Use the remaining shredded cheese. Sprinkle it evenly over the top. Return the stuffed squash to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes. The filling heats through. The cheese melts and gets bubbly and golden. It’s almost ready to serve!
Leftovers of this incredible stuffed delicata squash are precious. Store them properly. This ensures they taste great later. Wrap cooled stuffed squash halves tightly. Use plastic wrap or foil. You can also put them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them promptly. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about three days. This makes them a convenient lunch option. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. You can also enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. It’s a tasty way to savor this fall favorite.
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Stuffed Delicata Squash
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and hearty dish featuring roasted delicata squash halves filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, apple, cranberries, pecans, and spinach, topped with melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 medium delicata squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound hot or sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 apple, cored and diced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
- While the squash roasts, prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Add the onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, apple, cranberries, pecans, and sage, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook until it wilts.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cooked quinoa and half of the cheese.
- Once the squash is tender, flip the halves over.
- Fill each squash half generously with the sausage stuffing.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- Choose squash of similar size. This ensures even roasting.
- Don’t overcook the squash initially. It should be tender, not mushy.
- Taste the filling before stuffing. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Use a cookie scoop for consistent stuffing portions.
- Ensure filling is hot before stuffing for even reheating.
- Keep an eye on the cheese. It browns quickly.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet for roasting.
- Large skillet for the filling.
- Sharp knife for slicing squash.
- Spoon for scooping seeds.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Alternative: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad. A simple vinaigrette works well.
- Pair with a glass of dry apple cider. It complements the fall flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley. It adds a touch of color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the stuffing ahead of time for this Stuffed Delicata Squash?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and apple stuffing a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before filling your roasted delicata squash. This makes assembly even quicker!
What are some good vegetarian or vegan substitutions for this Stuffed Delicata Squash recipe?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. For vegan stuffed delicata squash, use a plant-based sausage or a mix of lentils and grains. Ensure your cheese is also vegan if needed. Many great meatless options exist!
How do I ensure the delicata squash is tender but not mushy?
Roast the squash cut-side down first, as directed. This helps it steam gently. Testing with a fork is key. It should yield with slight resistance. Avoid over-roasting before stuffing. The second bake infuses more flavor without overcooking the squash.
Can I use a different type of squash for this Stuffed Delicata Squash?
Certainly! While delicata squash is wonderful because its skin is edible, other squashes work too. Butternut squash or acorn squash are excellent choices. You’ll need to peel these types and scoop out the seeds. Adjust roasting times as needed for different squash varieties.
