Description
Savory stuffed acorn squash brings autumn’s warmth to your dinner table with Mediterranean-inspired quinoa, herbs, and roasted vegetables nestled in a golden squash shell. Hearty ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a comforting seasonal favorite you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Main Protein and Dairy:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese
- 1 cup (100 grams) shredded Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 3 ounces (85 grams) fresh spinach
- 3 tablespoons (12 grams) fresh thyme
Cooking Oil:
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
Instructions
- After roasting acorn squash for half an hour, carefully remove from the oven and position the halves with cut sides facing upward.
- Evenly distribute the prepared spinach and cheese mixture into each squash cavity, gently pressing to create a level surface.
- Delicately sprinkle half of the fresh thyme over the stuffed mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Return the filled squash to the 400°F oven and continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
- Switch the oven to broil and carefully monitor the squash for 3-5 minutes, aiming for a golden-brown crust without burning the delicate surface.
- Once achieved, remove from the oven and garnish with freshly ground black pepper and remaining thyme leaves for a vibrant, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Prep ahead by roasting squash initially for 30 minutes to create a perfect base for stuffing.
- Distribute spinach and cheese mixture evenly across squash halves for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Use fresh thyme sparingly to enhance the overall taste without overpowering the delicate squash.
- Monitor broiling closely to achieve a golden crust without burning the cheese or squash.
- Finish with freshly ground black pepper and additional thyme for a restaurant-quality presentation.
- Consider using a timer during the final broiling stage to prevent accidental burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg