Cozy Autumn Turkey & Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash
45
min
411
Calories
10g
Fats
50g
Carbs
29g
Protein
Discover a perfect fall dish: Turkey and Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash. This heartwarming recipe blends savory turkey, fluffy rice, and sweet squash for a nutritious meal that's both satisfying and low in calories.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, consider cooking the rice in chicken stock or add a tablespoon of Vegeta seasoning to your cooking water. This simple step elevates your rice from bland to grand! It's a small effort for a big payoff in aroma and taste.
Pro Tip: For a fluffier rice texture, let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing.
Step 2: Prep and Roast Squash
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Then, cut your acorn squash in half and drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for about 30 minutes. You're looking for a tender flesh that easily pierces with a fork. Roasting squash not only softens it but also enhances its natural sweetness, making it a perfect canvas for the savory filling you'll add later.
Pro Tip: Brush olive oil evenly for a perfectly roasted exterior.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While your squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet and add the diced onions. Cook them until they're translucent—a gorgeous glaze indicating they're just about done. Then, incorporate the minced garlic, letting it cook for another minute. This step is where everything starts smelling like heaven in your kitchen. The combination of onions and garlic is a timeless classic, adding depth and soul to the filling.
Pro Tip: Keep the garlic moving to prevent it from burning.
Step 4: Cook the Turkey and Veggies
To the skillet, add the ground turkey, another tablespoon of Vegeta, diced red pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook until the turkey is almost done, then add the chopped mushrooms. Continue cooking until the mushrooms are softened and the turkey is fully cooked. The mushrooms add a lovely texture and earthiness that complements the turkey beautifully. It's all coming together now, creating a hearty, flavorful mixture that will perfectly stuff your squash.
Pro Tip: Breaking the turkey into small pieces helps it cook evenly.
Step 5: Combine Filling
Fold the cooked rice and fresh spinach into the skillet, stirring until the spinach has just wilted. This step integrates all the ingredients into a filling that's ready to be loaded into our squash boats. The spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrition, making this dish as healthy as it is delicious.
Pro Tip: Add the spinach last to keep its vibrant color.
Step 6: Stuff and Top Squash
With the squash halves roasted and the filling prepared, it's time to assemble. Spoon the turkey and rice mixture into the squash halves, packing them generously. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish. If you like, you can mist the breadcrumbs with a little olive oil spray to help them brown in the oven. This touch adds a lovely texture contrast to the tender squash and juicy filling.
Pro Tip: Press the filling lightly to fit more inside.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the stuffed squash in the preheated oven until the breadcrumbs have turned a delightful golden brown. This final bake melds all the flavors together and gives the squash a beautiful presentation. Be ready for the delicious aroma that will fill your home, making everyone's mouth water in anticipation. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience—comforting, nourishing, and utterly satisfying.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs to avoid burning them.
