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Cozy Cinnamon Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

cinnamon sausage stuffed acorn squash - featured image

A hearty, savory-sweet main course featuring roasted acorn squash filled with seasoned Italian sausage, onions, garlic, and a hint of cinnamon. This easy weeknight dinner balances comfort food flavors with simple preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: toasted pecans, crumbled feta cheese, or balsamic glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Carefully cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
  3. Place squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender. Remove and flip cut-side up.
  4. While squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned (6-8 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary.
  6. Push sausage to one side, add diced onion, and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
  7. Add garlic, cinnamon, and sage; stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Mix sausage and vegetable mixture together; season with salt and pepper.
  9. Spoon the filling generously into the hollowed-out centers of the roasted squash.
  10. Return stuffed squash to the oven, cut-side up, and bake for another 10 minutes.
  11. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If cutting the squash is difficult, microwave it for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin. Ensure the sausage is well-browned for maximum flavor. The filling should be slightly saltier than usual to balance the mild squash. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F.

Nutrition

Keywords: acorn squash, sausage stuffing, cinnamon, Italian sausage, fall dinner, winter recipe, comfort food, gluten-free, easy dinner