Are you looking for a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the savory flavors of sausage? Look no further! We have the perfect recipe for you: recipe for acorn squash stuffed with sausage. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish.
Acorn squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. When stuffed with flavorful sausage, it becomes a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a taste of Italy. The combination of smoky sausage and the creamy texture of the acorn squash creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe for acorn squash stuffed with sausage:
- 2 medium acorn squash
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Now, let’s move on to the instructions for preparing this delicious recipe for acorn squash stuffed with sausage:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
6. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
7. While the sausage mixture is simmering, brush the acorn squash halves with olive oil and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
8. Spoon the sausage mixture into the hollowed-out acorn squash halves.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the acorn squash is tender.
10. Sprinkle the top of the stuffed acorn squash with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired) and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious recipe for acorn squash stuffed with sausage as a comforting main course or a side dish. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a romantic dinner, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors and textures. Bon appétit!