Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash – A Cozy & Flavorful Veggie-Packed Meal!
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty dish straight from the oven, and this Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash checks all the boxes. Packed with wholesome vegetables, savory herbs, and a touch of sweetness, it’s the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this stuffed squash will be your go-to favorite!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash, you’ll need:
For the Roasted Squash:
- 2 medium butternut squash (halved lengthwise, seeds removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Stuffing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Required Kitchen Tools
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Spoon (for scooping seeds)
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowl
- Foil (optional, for covering)
- Oven
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.
2. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Brush the cut sides of the squash halves with olive oil, and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on the baking sheet. Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender and easily scoopable.
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the squash is roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, until the veggies begin to soften.
4. Add Chickpeas and Spices:
Add the chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, cumin, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mix in Quinoa and Fresh Ingredients:
Remove from heat. Stir in the cooked quinoa (or couscous), fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Stuff the Squash:
Once the squash is roasted and cool enough to handle, use a spoon to scoop out a bit of the flesh to create a shallow well for the stuffing (you can mix the scooped-out flesh into the filling for extra volume and creaminess). Spoon the filling generously into each squash half.
7. Optional Cheese Topping & Bake Again:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, uncovered, until the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve as a main dish or a hearty vegetarian side.
Helpful Tips for Making or Serving Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash
- Make it vegan: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a completely plant-based version.
- Meal prep-friendly: Prepare the filling a day ahead and stuff the squash just before baking for a quick weeknight meal.
- Add protein: For extra protein, add cooked lentils, tofu crumbles, or even ground turkey to the stuffing.
- Switch up the grains: Don’t have quinoa or couscous? Try farro, brown rice, or even bulgur wheat.
- Use leftovers creatively: Leftover stuffing can be tossed into wraps, used in salads, or even served as a warm grain bowl.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving – 1/2 stuffed squash)
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 9g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg (varies depending on added salt and cheese)
Note: These values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portions used.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash recipe brings together the heartiness of seasonal produce with bold, comforting flavors that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for everything from holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking to eat more plant-forward dishes, this cozy and flavorful recipe is sure to impress.
Try this recipe today and bring a touch of wholesome comfort to your table with every bite. Don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with friends and family who love delicious and nourishing meals!
