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Stuffed Acorn Squash with Ground Turkey and Apples

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Ground Turkey and Apples

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a warm and comforting dinner with Stuffed Acorn Squash filled with savory ground turkey, sweet apples, aromatic spices, smoked turkey bacon, fresh herbs, and melted plant-based cheese. This wholesome and balanced recipe combines seasonal flavors and textures perfectly, making it ideal for cozy evenings, meal prep, and customizable to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Squash and Base

  • 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Filling

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 medium apples, diced (such as Granny Smith)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (natural)
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, shredded (such as mozzarella (plant-based) or cheddar (plant-based))

Optional Garnishes and Serving

  • Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley
  • Apple cider vinegar (natural) reduction, for drizzling
  • Leafy greens, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds to create natural bowls. Brush the inside of each squash half with olive oil. Place cut side down on a baking sheet and roast until tender but firm, about 30-40 minutes.
  2. Cook the Filling: In a large pan over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until slightly crisp. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground turkey, cooking thoroughly while breaking it up as it browns.
  3. Add Apples and Seasonings: Stir in diced apples, cinnamon (natural), nutmeg (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine. Chop the cooked smoked turkey bacon and fold it into the filling mixture along with fresh herbs. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. Stuff the Squash: Carefully fill each roasted acorn squash half with the prepared turkey and apple mixture. Top each generously with shredded plant-based cheese.
  5. Final Bake: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the plant-based cheese has melted and is bubbly. Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Choose firm, blemish-free acorn squash for best texture and sweetness.
  • Use crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the savory filling.
  • Do not overstuff the squash to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.
  • Let stuffed squash rest a few minutes after baking to meld flavors.
  • Add fresh herbs just before baking to brighten the dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed acorn squash half
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Stuffed Acorn Squash, Ground Turkey, Apples, Plant-Based Cheese, Comfort Food, Fall Recipe, Gluten Free

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/stuffed-acorn-squash-with-ground-turkey-and-apples/