Prepare to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that combines the rustic sweetness of acorn squash with the savory richness of ham and spinach! This recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the pickiest eaters. Imagine cutting into a perfectly roasted acorn squash, revealing a golden, cheesy filling that promises to elevate your home cooking to restaurant-quality levels. Whether you're looking for a cozy autumn dinner or a nutritious weeknight meal, this Ham and Spinach Stuffed Acorn Squash is about to become your new favorite recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes, halved
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup grated cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon. Create a flat surface by trimming a small portion of the bottom if needed to help the squash sit stable.
- Brush the inside of each squash half with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh becomes tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the stuffing. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, chopped spinach, cooked rice, and grated cheese. Mix thoroughly and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the squash from the oven and carefully flip the halves cut-side up. Fill each half generously with the ham and spinach mixture.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose firm, heavy acorn squashes with smooth, intact skin for the best results.
- Don't skip roasting the squash first - this step caramelizes the natural sugars and creates a deeper flavor profile.
- For extra moisture, you can add a splash of chicken broth to the stuffing mixture.
- Use pre-cooked rice to save time, but make sure it's cooled before mixing with other ingredients.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ham with diced mushrooms or plant-based protein.
- Make sure to check the squash's tenderness with a fork before adding the stuffing to ensure it's perfectly cooked.
- Let the stuffed squash rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and make serving easier.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gruyère or sharp cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
