Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping fall dish that’s as comforting as it is dazzling, look no further than this Stuffed Butternut Squash. With its savory sausage and veggie filling, melty cheddar topping, and a touch of sweet maple glaze, this recipe transforms humble squash into a vibrant centerpiece you’ll crave all season long.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: Stuffed Butternut Squash turns a simple veggie into an eye-catching, hearty main that’s guaranteed to impress at gatherings or family nights.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Each bite has a blend of sweet, savory, spicy, and cheesy notes for a layered, memorable taste experience.
• Total Comfort Food: The golden cheddar, hearty sausage, and creamy roasted squash are the very definition of cozy and satisfying.
• Versatile & Nutritious: This recipe is packed with nourishing veggies and protein, and can be adapted for different dietary needs.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Everything you need for Stuffed Butternut Squash is likely in your kitchen already, but each ingredient has a purpose—either boosting flavor, adding texture, or making that gorgeous color pop. Here’s what you’ll need and how each part contributes.

• Butternut Squash: The star! Its sweet, creamy flesh creates a natural bowl and holds up beautifully to roasting and stuffing.
• Olive Oil: Used for both the marinade and sauté, it enriches the flavor and gives a touch of richness.
• Yellow Onion: Brings essential savory notes and balances the sweetness of the squash.
• Celery: Adds crunch and a subtle earthiness to the filling.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Lifts all the flavors—don’t skip or skimp!
• Chili Flakes: For the perfect pop of heat; dial it up or down based on your spice preference.
• Poultry Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings comforting autumnal vibes to the stuffing.
• Ground Mild Italian Sausage: Juicy, full of flavor, and makes the filling incredibly satisfying. Substitute turkey or a plant-based sausage if desired.
• Spinach: Adds heaps of color, nutrients, and freshness to every bite.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts lusciously throughout the filling and on top for irresistible gooeyness—swap in gruyere or mozzarella for a new twist.
• Maple Syrup: The secret to a subtly sweet, caramelized top that perfectly complements the savory elements.
• Garlic: Key for depth and aromatics, you’ll taste it in every bite of the marinade.

How to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Carefully cut your butternut squash in half lengthwise (removing the stem as needed), then scoop out the seeds and use a fork to gently pierce the flesh. This helps the marinade soak in and allows the squash to roast more evenly.

Step 2: Maple-Garlic Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Using a brush, generously coat the cut side of each squash half—this mixture will give the finished dish the most irresistible savory-sweet flavor and help caramelize the tops.

Step 3: Roast Until Tender

Place your squash halves flesh-side up on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes. The squash should be fork-tender but not collapsing; if the neck feels a little tough, give it another 5 minutes or so. This stage ensures the squash holds up to stuffing but melts in your mouth when eaten.

Step 4: Make the Savory Filling

While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a large sauté pan. Add onions, celery, salt, chili flakes, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Sauté over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and glistening, about 8 minutes. This sautéed veggie base gives the stuffing its signature depth and aroma.

Step 5: Brown and Build the Filling

Add ground Italian sausage to the pan. Break it up as it cooks, letting it brown fully so all that delicious flavor develops. Once the sausage is cooked through, toss in the spinach and cook until just wilted, followed by half the shredded cheddar for creaminess. Give everything a good stir so the filling is cohesive and cheesy.

Step 6: Stuff and Bake Again

Once squash halves are roasted, pile a generous mound of filling into each cavity—don’t worry if they’re a bit overflowing, that’s what makes Stuffed Butternut Squash so inviting! Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top and pop everything back in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until golden, bubbly, and just begging to be served.

How to Serve Stuffed Butternut Squash

Garnishes

Finish your Stuffed Butternut Squash with a flourish: a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a scattering of toasted pumpkin seeds, or even a handful of pomegranate arils for a burst of color—these small touches make the dish holiday-table worthy and extra delicious.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, garlicky green beans, or buttery wild rice. These sides highlight the squash’s warmth without overpowering its delicate flavors, making your meal feel both festive and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra wow factor, slice the Stuffed Butternut Squash into thick wedges and fan them out on a platter, or serve whole halves on individual plates with a colorful bed of arugula or baby spinach beneath. Mini squash or “boat” servings also make for stunning appetizer portions or party platters!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, tuck any leftover Stuffed Butternut Squash into an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen by the next day, making leftovers absolutely crave-worthy.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm Stuffed Butternut Squash in a 350°F oven, loosely covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also reheat individual servings gently in the microwave—just be sure to use a microwave-safe dish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Invite some fall magic to your table with Stuffed Butternut Squash—it’s a guaranteed comfort food favorite that tastes as stunning as it looks. I hope you give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy every hearty, flavorful bite!

Print