Cozy up to the flavors of the season with these Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites. These golden, crispy-edged squash cups are loaded with a hearty, zesty filling that will warm you from the inside out. Brimming with festive spices and fresh fall produce, this recipe is a delicious way to celebrate the bounty of the harvest.
Why You’ll Love This Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites
These Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites are the ultimate comfort food for chilly autumn nights. The velvety roasted squash provides a lush, creamy base that perfectly balances the bright, bold flavors of the filling. Packed with juicy sausage, melty cheese, and a symphony of warm spices, each bite is an indulgent, satisfying delight. Plus, these festive squash cups are a breeze to prepare, making them an easy yet impressive addition to your holiday spread.
Ingredients
You’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients to create these flavorful Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites. Roasted acorn squash provides the edible vessel for the hearty filling, which features spicy Italian sausage, earthy mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of melty mozzarella cheese for an extra layer of gooey goodness.
- 2 medium acorn squash – halved and seeded
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
- Sausage: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option.
- Goat Cheese: Swap for creamy ricotta or tangy feta to change up the flavor.
How to Make Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and cutting the acorn squash in half. Scoop out the seeds and brush the flesh with a bit of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then roast the squash for 30-40 minutes until tender. Once cooled, use a spoon to carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer attached to the skin to create your edible cups.
Step 1: Prep Work
In a skillet, sauté the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, then add the mushrooms and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic, sage, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne for a warm, earthy flavor. Gently fold in the roasted squash flesh, goat cheese, and a splash of heavy cream to create a lush, creamy filling.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Spoon the filling into the roasted squash cups, packing it in tightly. Top each cup with a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Return the stuffed squash bites to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Before serving, garnish the Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness. The combination of the savory filling and the caramelized edges of the squash is truly crave-worthy.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or crumbled feta, to change up the flavor profile.
- Heartier Meal: Serve the stuffed squash bites alongside a fresh salad or roasted potatoes.
- Shape Variations: Use any small winter squash variety, like butternut or delicata, to create these festive, edible vessels.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: These Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites are best served hot from the oven, when the cheese is melted and the filling is piping hot. They make a wonderful appetizer or side dish for your holiday gatherings, and can even be a satisfying main course when paired with a salad or other seasonal sides.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling and stuff the squash cups up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Nutrition Information
These Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites are a nutritious and comforting addition to your fall and winter meals. Acorn squash is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, while the sausage and cheese provide protein to keep you feeling satisfied. Each bite-sized serving is a balanced blend of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making this dish a wholesome and delicious choice for your holiday table.
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed squash bite
- Calories: 215 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbs: 13 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Sodium: 508 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the stuffed squash bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the squash cups up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When ready to serve, simply top with the mozzarella cheese and bake as directed.
Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can easily substitute other small winter squash varieties, such as butternut, delicata, or carnival squash, for the acorn squash. The cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to check for tenderness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites gluten-free, simply omit the breadcrumbs from the filling or use a gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so this dish can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions.
Can I freeze the stuffed squash bites?
Yes, these Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites freeze exceptionally well. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then let the stuffed squash cups cool completely. Transfer them to a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, you can transfer the bites to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake the frozen stuffed squash directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with the stuffed squash bites?
These Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites make a wonderful appetizer or side dish, but they can also be a satisfying main course. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes or Brussels sprouts, or a crusty loaf of bread for a comforting, seasonal meal.
Try These Next
- Harvest Festive Cheesy Jalapeno Corn Dip
- Harvest Festive Turkey And Cranberry Sliders
- Festive Seasonal Feasts
Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: 🎉 Festive & Seasonal Feasts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Harvest Festive Stuffed Acorn Squash Bites are a delightful and nutritious appetizer that combines the flavors of fall with a savory filling. Perfect for your holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
2 medium acorn squashes
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup cranberries, dried
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle the insides with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, cranberries, pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
6. Once the squashes are done, flip them over and fill each half with the quinoa mixture.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
These bites can be made ahead of time. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.
Feel free to substitute quinoa with rice or farro for a different texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: acorn squash, stuffed bites, festive, holiday, appetizer