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Stuffed butternut squash, ready to serve

Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe: A New Tradition to Be Thankful For

When the leaves start to change color and there's a crispness in the air, it's the perfect time to indulge in comforting and hearty meals. One dish that never fails to impress is a stuffed butternut squash!
5 from 158 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 2 people
Calories 845 kcal

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large bowl
  • Spoon

Ingredients
  

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 medium-sized Butternut squash
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic powder

Filling Options

  • 1 cup Quinoa cooked
  • 1 cup Chickpeas cooked
  • 2 cups Kale chopped
  • ½ cup Feta cheese crumbled
  • ¼ cup Cranberries dried
  • ¼ cup Pecans chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard them.
  • Drizzle the olive oil over the cut sides of the squash. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
  • While the squash is roasting, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, kale, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and pecans. Toss gently to mix.
  • Once the squash is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out some of the flesh from each half, creating a cavity for the filling.
  • Divide the filling mixture evenly between the two squash halves, pressing it gently into the cavities.
  • Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
  • Remove from the oven and let the stuffed squash cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into individual portions and enjoy!

Notes

  • Choosing the right squash — Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has firm skin. Avoid squash with soft spots or blemishes.
 
  • Roasting the squash — Make sure to place the squash cut side down on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and prevent the edges from burning.
 
  • Customize the filling — Feel free to get creative with the filling by adding your favorite ingredients. Consider using different grains, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your taste.
 
  • Don't overstuff — Be mindful not to overstuff the squash, as it may cause the filling to spill out during baking. Leave a little room for the filling to expand.
 
  • Garnish and serve — Before serving, garnish the stuffed squash with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and added freshness.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe: A New Tradition to Be Thankful For
Amount per Serving
Calories
845
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
27
g
42
%
Saturated Fat
 
7
g
44
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
7
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
10
g
Cholesterol
 
33
mg
11
%
Sodium
 
1776
mg
77
%
Potassium
 
2374
mg
68
%
Carbohydrates
 
130
g
43
%
Fiber
 
25
g
104
%
Sugar
 
14
g
16
%
Protein
 
32
g
64
%
Vitamin A
 
46797
IU
936
%
Vitamin C
 
144
mg
175
%
Calcium
 
633
mg
63
%
Iron
 
11
mg
61
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Keyword Comforting meals, Fall recipes, Hearty dishes, Stuffed butternut squash, Vegetarian main course
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