Baked Acorn Squash Stuffed with Apples

A cozy dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the nutty flavor of acorn squash for a comforting fall treat. It’s easy to prepare and perfect as a healthy side or a light vegetarian main.

Helpful Chef Tips

Choose acorn squash that is firm and has a deep green color with minimal blemishes.
To speed up cooking, you can microwave the squash for a few minutes before baking.
Use a spoon to scoop out all the seeds and stringy bits to create a smooth cavity for stuffing.

Ingredients 0/9

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 acorn squash, halved and seeded 1 apple, diced 2 tablespoons diced celery 2 tablespoons water 2 teaspoons minced onion 2 teaspoons butter, cubed 1 teaspoon maple syrup 1 pinch ground cinnamon, or to taste

Why This Recipe Is So Delicious

This dish combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash and apples for a comforting and nutritious meal. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce and adds a colorful, festive touch to your table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for both family dinners and holiday gatherings.

Directions

Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush a baking sheet with olive oil, then place the acorn squash halves cut-side down on the sheet. In a small baking dish, mix together the apples, celery, water, onion, and butter, and cover it with foil. Pop both the squash and the apple mixture into the oven and let them bake until everything is nice and tender, which should take about 45 minutes. Once they're done, scoop the apple mixture into the squash halves. Finish by drizzling some maple syrup over the top and sprinkling a bit of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor. Enjoy!

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people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

How To Plate This Dish

Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top adds extra flavor and texture. This dish also pairs well with roasted chicken or pork for a heartier option.

Storing Food Safely

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the squash’s texture. If you want to freeze, remove the stuffing from the squash first and freeze separately for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with other winter squashes like delicata or buttercup, but cooking times may vary.

How do I know when the squash and apple mixture are fully cooked?

They should be tender when pierced with a fork, usually after about 45 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Can I prepare the apple mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the apple filling a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until baking.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

Honey or agave syrup can be good alternatives to maple syrup in this recipe.

Is it necessary to add water to the apple mixture?

The water helps steam and soften the filling; you can reduce it slightly but not omit it entirely.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure the maple syrup is pure and vegan-friendly.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the filling?

Yes, chopped nuts or dried cranberries can add extra texture and flavor to the filling.