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Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash: A Delicious and Nutritious Fall Recipe

Enjoy the comforting taste of roasted butternut squash filled with a delicious blend of Italian sausage, quinoa, and spinach. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, making it a great choice for impressing family and friends!

  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium-sized butternut squashes
  • 1 pound of Italian sausage
  • 1 cup of cooked quinoa
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of spinach, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the butternut squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
  3. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
  5. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  7. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  8. Add the chopped spinach, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Mix in the cooked quinoa (or rice) and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  10. Flip the roasted butternut squash halves cut-side up.
  11. Spoon the sausage and quinoa mixture into each half, packing it in.
  12. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
  13. Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  15. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite vegetables or grains.
  • Leftover stuffing can be baked in a small dish alongside the squash.
  • Author: Aria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes