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Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

Stuffed Baked Acorn Squash is a flavorful and comforting dish that features tender roasted squash filled with a savory ground beef and vegetable mixture, topped with gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this hearty recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 acorn squash

  • Olive oil spray

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

For the Stuffing:

  • 225g (8oz) of 5% ground beef

  • 1 small onion, diced small

  • 1 clove of garlic, crushed

  • 1 small carrot, diced small

  • 1 teaspoon of paprika

  • 1 teaspoon of cumin

  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

  • 3/4 cup (180ml) of beef or chicken stock

  • 1/3 cup (50g) of frozen peas

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • 15g (0.5oz) of cheddar, grated

  • 25g (1oz) of mozzarella, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) or gas mark 6. Slice the acorn squash in half with a sharp knife, remove seeds, and discard. Optionally, trim a sliver from the bottom of each half so they sit flat. Spray the flesh side with olive oil spray, season with salt and black pepper, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the flesh is soft and easily pierced with a fork.

  2. While the squash is baking, add ground beef, onion, carrot, and garlic to a frying pan. Fry until browned and softened. Add paprika, cumin, and tomato paste, stirring to coat the mixture. Then add stock and peas, simmering until the stock reduces and coats the meat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

  3. Remove the baked squash halves from the oven. Fill each half with the meat mixture. Top with grated mozzarella and cheddar. Place back in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

  4. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 320 per serving