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Stuffed Acorn Squash with Ground Turkey and Apples

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Ground Turkey and Apples

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

Description

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Ground Turkey and Apples is a comforting and nutrient-packed dish featuring roasted acorn squash halves filled with a savory and sweet mixture of ground turkey, crisp apples, smoked turkey bacon, and aromatic herbs. This recipe balances flavors and textures perfectly, offering a wholesome and visually impressive meal ideal for fall and winter or any time you desire a hearty, healthy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 apples, diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup pecan pieces, toasted
  • Fresh chopped parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the squash: Cut the acorn squashes in half and carefully scoop out the seeds. Brush each half with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the flesh is tender but still firm enough to hold its shape.
  2. Cook the filling: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until it begins to crisp. Stir in the ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks through. Season with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add apples and bind: Fold diced apples into the cooked turkey mixture to add sweetness and moisture. Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly over the filling mixture and stir well to bind while keeping the filling light. Cook for an additional few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Stuff and bake: Remove the roasted squash from the oven and carefully flip each half over. Spoon the turkey and apple filling generously into each squash cavity. If using, sprinkle toasted pecan pieces on top for crunch. Return the filled squash to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until heated through and the flavors have blended nicely.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the squash; keep it slightly firm to avoid collapse when stuffing.
  • Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for better texture.
  • Toast nuts separately before adding them as topping to enhance flavor.
  • Layer seasoning gradually to develop a balanced depth of flavor.
  • Prepare the filling ahead of time and let it rest to allow flavors to marry.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed acorn squash half
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: acorn squash, stuffed squash, ground turkey recipe, autumn meal, healthy dinner, turkey and apples, savory and sweet

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