Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage Rice

Stuffed acorn squash is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a hearty fall meal. It can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from sausage and rice to ground beef and cheese. Whether you are looking for a vegetarian option or a meat-lover’s dream, this dish is sure to satisfy. The mild flavor of acorn squash pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of sausage and rice. Plus, this dish is easy to make and can be put together in no time.

To begin making this stuffed acorn squash dish, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Cut your acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash cut-side-down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45 minutes, until the squash is soft and tender. Once the squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and set aside.

Filling the Squash

While the squash is roasting, begin preparing the filling. In a large skillet, cook one pound of sausage over medium-high heat. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside. To the same skillet, add one cup of chopped onion and cook until softened. Add two cloves of minced garlic, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and one teaspoon of dried basil. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often. Then, add one cup of uncooked long grain white rice and stir to combine.

Next, add two cups of chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes, until the rice is cooked through. Finally, add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Squash

When the squash is done roasting and the filling is prepared, it’s time to assemble the dish. Place the roasted squash halves cut-side-up in a baking dish. Then, fill each squash half with the sausage and rice filling. Top each squash with one tablespoon of shredded cheese. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through.

Serving the Squash

Once the stuffed acorn squash is finished baking, it’s time to serve. Place each squash half on a plate and top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!