Looking for a cozy and delicious meal that will impress your family and friends? Dive into the heartwarming flavors of our Stuffed Acorn Squash with Ground Beef, Kale, and Brussels Sprouts! This vibrant dish not only showcases the beauty of seasonal ingredients but also combines savory ground beef with nutrient-rich veggies, all nestled inside tender, roasted acorn squash. Perfect for a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and fibrous insides using a spoon. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the acorn squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped kale and halved Brussels sprouts. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the acorn squashes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and carefully flip them over so the cut side is facing up.
- Fill each acorn squash half with the beef and vegetable mixture, packing it in gently to ensure they are well-stuffed.
- Return the stuffed acorn squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tops to brown slightly.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your stuffed acorn squash warm!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for acorn squashes that are firm and heavy for their size, with a deep green color and minimal blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Roasting Technique: Make sure to roast the squash cut side down to allow the steam to cook the flesh evenly, resulting in a tender and flavorful base for your stuffing.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding spices such as cumin or paprika to the beef mixture, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top before the final bake.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to tailor the filling to your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These stuffed squashes can be prepared in advance! Assemble them up to a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and bake right before serving for a hassle-free meal.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your stuffed acorn squash with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal and soak up all those delicious flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
