Barbecued Or Baked Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• STEP 2.Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
• STEP 3.Place the squash halves cut-side down on the baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
• STEP 4.While the squash is roasting, prepare the filling. Cook grains, such as quinoa or rice, according to package instructions.
• STEP 5.In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté onions, garlic, and any other desired vegetables until softened.
• STEP 6.Add the cooked grains, protein of choice (such as cooked ground meat or beans), and any desired seasonings to the skillet and stir to combine.
• STEP 7.Remove the roasted squash from the oven and carefully flip them over. Fill each squash half with the filling mixture.
• STEP 8.Brush the tops of the stuffed squash with barbecue sauce.
• STEP 9.Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the tops are slightly caramelized.
• STEP 10.Serve the barbecued or baked stuffed acorn squash as a main course or side dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
• STEP 11.Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Choose acorn squash that is firm and heavy for its size, with a dull skin.
• To make this dish vegan, use plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh instead of meat.
• Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as mushrooms, spinach, or cheese.
• If you don't have barbecue sauce, you can use tomato sauce or a combination of ketchup and brown sugar as a substitute.

Storage and Serving

• Serve the barbecued or baked stuffed acorn squash hot, straight from the oven.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.