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Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

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This cozy Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delicious fall side or light vegetarian main dish. Roasted acorn squash halves are filled with a warm, spiced apple mixture and baked until golden and tender. It’s a beautiful, naturally sweet dish that highlights the best of seasonal produce—perfect for holiday tables or cozy weeknight meals.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
  • Total Time: 55–65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 stuffed squash halves (serves 4)
  • Category: Side Dish, Vegetarian Main, Fall Recipes
  • Method: Roasting, Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Seasonal
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 medium acorn squashes
  • 4 tbsp butter (or plant-based alternative)
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 apples (firm variety, cored and diced; peeled if desired)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts or dried fruit (e.g., cranberries or raisins)
  • Optional: fresh thyme or sage for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice acorn squashes in half and remove seeds. Trim the bottoms slightly if needed so they sit flat.
  2. Rub inside of each squash half with butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Place cut-side down in a baking dish. Add ½–1 cm water to the pan to aid steam. Roast for 25–30 minutes or until fork-tender.
  3. While squash roasts, toss diced apples with lemon juice. In a skillet, melt butter and add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat for 5–8 minutes, until softened. Stir in optional nuts or fruit.
  4. Remove squash from oven, flip cut side up, and fill with apple mixture. Return to oven and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until hot and slightly browned on top.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries if desired.

Notes

  • For a savory twist, add chopped sage or thyme to the apple mixture.
  • Drizzle with maple syrup or honey before serving for extra sweetness.
  • For added texture, stir cooked quinoa or farro into the filling.
  • Use coconut oil for a vegan version.
  • Add a splash of apple cider to the filling for more depth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/apple-stuffed-acorn-squash/