Sides

Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

This delicious dish features acorn squash halves baked until tender and then filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, sweet apples, onions, breadcrumbs, and herbs.

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Prep

20 minutes

Cook

50 minutes

Total

1 hour, 10 minutes

Serves

people

Author

Cody Landry

Description:

This delicious dish features acorn squash halves baked until tender and then filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, sweet apples, onions, breadcrumbs, and herbs. The combination of flavors creates a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it an ideal hearty fall meal that’s both comforting and full of autumn flavors.

What to Serve This With:

1. Roast Chicken or Turkey
- The savory, sweet flavors of the stuffed squash complement roasted poultry, making it a perfect addition to a fall or holiday meal.
2. Pork Tenderloin or Pork Chops
- The apple and sausage flavors work well with pork, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal.
3. Beef Tenderloin or Prime Rib
- The richness of the beef pairs nicely with the slight sweetness and heartiness of the stuffed squash.
4. Baked Salmon or Trout
- The savory filling in the squash adds a flavorful contrast to the lightness of baked fish.
5. Grilled Lamb Chops
- The earthiness of lamb is balanced by the sweet-savory combination of the squash, making it an elegant side.

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Ingredients

2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

1 small onion, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

1 apple, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon dried sage

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)

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Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Prepare the Squash:
- Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place them cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
Cook the Sausage Filling:
- While the squash is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it into small pieces as it cooks until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and celery, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the diced apple, garlic, dried sage, and thyme, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the apple softens slightly.
Combine the Filling:
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, mixing it with the onion, celery, and apple mixture.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), and chicken or vegetable broth. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff the Squash:
- Carefully turn the baked acorn squash halves over (cut side up) and spoon the sausage and apple mixture into each half, packing it in well.
Bake the Stuffed Squash:
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Serve: Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.