Sausage-Apple Stuffed Squash
Description
This comforting dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with a savory, hearty stuffing. The filling blends pork sausage, chopped apples, onions, and oats for a perfect balance of textures. The apples add a subtle fruity note that cuts through the richness of the meat, while the oats provide a satisfying chew. It is an ideal centerpiece for autumn dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknight meals. The squash roasts until tender, creating a natural bowl for the flavorful sausage mixture. Serve this wholesome meal with a simple green salad for a complete, home-style experience that appeals to both adults and children. It is simple to prepare with common pantry staples.Ingredients
Directions
-
Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
-
Cut acorn squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds and stringy pulp.
-
Place squash halves cut-side down in a shallow baking pan.
-
Pour a small amount of water into the pan.
-
Bake squash for 30 minutes to soften slightly.
-
While squash bakes, combine sausage meat, oats, salt, chopped apple, onion, parsley, and milk in a large bowl.
-
Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
-
Shape the mixture into 18 small sausage balls.
-
Heat shortening in a large skillet over medium heat.
-
Brown the sausage balls lightly on all sides, then remove from skillet.
-
Remove squash from oven and turn halves cut-side up.
-
Season the inside of each squash half with salt and pepper.
-
Place 3 sausage balls inside each squash half.
-
Return to oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until squash is tender and sausage is cooked through.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 30.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 3.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 7.5g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2.1g9%
- Sugars 1.0g
- Protein 0.8g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Substitutions: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage and substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative. Apples can be swapped for pears for a different flavor profile.
Tip: If the squash is very large, you may need to bake it longer. Check for tenderness by piercing the flesh with a fork.
Variation: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or maple syrup to the squash before baking for extra sweetness.