Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese

Prepare to indulge in this Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese, a hearty and wholesome dish perfect for cozy dinners! The sweetness of the roasted butternut squash paired with savory spinach, garlic, and a creamy cheese filling creates a delightful balance of flavors. This dish is perfect for fall evenings or when you’re in the mood for something comforting yet healthy.

With its rich flavors and impressive presentation, this Stuffed Butternut Squash is a must-try for any dinner lover. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Resume of the Recipe
This Stuffed Butternut Squash features roasted squash filled with a delicious mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, and a blend of cheeses, baked to perfection. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and easy to make!

Exciting Story:
I first made this Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese for a cozy fall dinner when I wanted to create something warm and satisfying. The combination of sweet roasted squash and creamy spinach filling was the perfect comfort food, and I couldn’t wait to share it with family. As the dish baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the enticing aromas of garlic and cheese, drawing everyone to the table.

When I served the dish, it was an instant hit! The contrast of flavors and textures—sweet squash, savory spinach, and gooey cheese—created a delightful experience, and everyone raved about it. Since that day, this dish has become a staple in our fall meals, always bringing warmth and joy to our family gatherings!

Why This Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese is a Must-Try

• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vitamins from the squash and spinach, this dish is both healthy and hearty.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet and savory combination is sure to please everyone’s palate.
• Versatile: This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish for any meal.

How to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese
Prepare the Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the cut sides of the butternut squashes with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

 

Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Squash:
Once the butternut squashes are cooked and cooled enough to handle, flip them cut-side up. Fill each half generously with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in.

Bake Again:
Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed squash halves. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese warm!

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients, like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or different cheeses.
• You can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for added crunch before baking.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor.
• Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if desired.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Use low-fat cheese options for a lighter filling.
• Add more vegetables to the stuffing for added nutrition.

Closing
And there you have it! This Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese is a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and check out some of our other delightful recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the squash just before baking.
2. How should I store leftovers?
   Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, you can freeze the stuffed squash before baking for up to 2 months; thaw before cooking.
4. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
   Cream cheese or goat cheese can be used as alternatives.
5. How do I know when the squash is done?
   The flesh should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins.
7. What’s the best way to serve this dish?
   Serve it warm as a main course or a hearty side dish.
8. Can I use different types of squash?
   Yes! Acorn squash or pumpkin can also be used for stuffing.
9. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling can enhance the flavor.
10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven to keep the texture or in the microwave if short on time.
11. Can I use flavored cheese?
    Yes! Feta or smoked Gouda can add an interesting flavor profile.
12. How do I achieve the best flavor?
    Use fresh ingredients, especially for the vegetables and cheese!

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese

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Recipe by Alexandra Course: All Word Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

0

minutes

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 2 medium 2 butternut squashes, halved and seeded

• 2 cups 2 fresh spinach, chopped

• 2 cloves 2 garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup 1/2 ricotta cheese

• 1/2 cup 1/2 shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)

• 1/4 cup 1/4 grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 tsp 1/4 nutmeg (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp 2 olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

• In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
• Stuff the Squash:
• Once the butternut squashes are cooked and cooled enough to handle, flip them cut-side up. Fill each half generously with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
• Bake Again:
• Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed squash halves. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Serve:
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach & Cheese warm!

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