Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious dinner that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This stuffed acorn squash with ground beef recipe is a fantastic choice for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's packed with flavor, brimming with autumnal goodness, and offers a healthy twist on classic comfort food. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium acorn squash
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or beef broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Acorn Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling:
While the squash is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 4: Combine the Filling Ingredients:
Stir in the cooked quinoa, pecans (or walnuts), dried cranberries, parsley, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Stuff the Squash:
Once the acorn squash is tender, carefully remove it from the oven. Spoon the ground beef mixture evenly into the cavities of the squash halves.
Step 6: Bake and Serve:
Pour the chicken or beef broth into the bottom of the baking sheet. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the squash is tender.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Acorn Squash:
- Choose the right squash: Select acorn squash that feel heavy for their size, indicating they are ripe and flavorful.
- Don't overcook the squash: Overcooked squash can become mushy. Check for tenderness with a fork.
- Get creative with the filling: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a hearty vegetarian option.
Variations:
- Spicy Stuffed Squash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for a kick.
- Cheesy Stuffed Squash: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the filling during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Apple and Sausage Stuffed Squash: Replace the cranberries with chopped apples and use Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a healthy and quick dinner. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a truly delightful experience. Enjoy!