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Delicious Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash – Perfect Fall Recipe Idea

When fall arrives, acorn squash and apples are two ingredients that perfectly capture the season’s flavors. This Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash brings them together in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful. Tender roasted acorn squash halves are filled with a warm apple mixture spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of sweetness. The result is a dish that works as both a side and a light vegetarian main course. It’s festive enough for Thanksgiving or Christmas but easy enough for weeknight comfort food. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also visually stunning—making it one of those dishes that feels like a centerpiece all on its own.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 halves
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium acorn squash halved and seeds removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 2 apples peeled, cored, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅓ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional, for crunch
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries optional, for extra sweetness

Equipment

  • Sharp knife (for cutting squash)
  • Spoon (for scooping out seeds)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small skillet (if pre-cooking apple filling)
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1: Roast the Squash
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Brush acorn squash halves with olive oil or butter and sprinkle lightly with salt.
  3. Place cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
  4. Roast for 30–35 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
  1. In a skillet, sauté diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in nuts and dried cranberries if using.
Step 3: Stuff the Squash
  1. Remove roasted squash from oven and flip cut side up.
  2. Fill each cavity with the warm apple mixture.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
  1. Return to oven for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  2. Serve warm, garnished with extra nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended—squash becomes watery after thawing.
Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Savory Twist: Add quinoa, rice, or farro to the apple filling for a heartier dish.
Cheesy Version: Sprinkle sharp cheddar or Parmesan on top before the final bake.
Vegan-Friendly: Use maple syrup instead of honey and olive oil instead of butter.
Spiced-Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for extra warmth.
Meaty Option: Stir in cooked sausage or ground turkey with the apples.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to peel the acorn squash?
No, the skin becomes tender when roasted and holds the filling well.
What type of apples work best?
Firm, tart-sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith balance the sweetness.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, roast squash and prepare filling ahead, then assemble and bake before serving.
Can I use other squash?
Yes, butternut or delicata squash work too.
Can I make this recipe savory instead of sweet?
Absolutely—use herbs, garlic, and rice stuffing instead.
What should I serve this with?
Roasted chicken, turkey, pork, or as a vegetarian main with salad.
Do I have to pre-cook the apples?
Pre-cooking ensures they’re soft and flavorful before stuffing.
Can I add oats for a crumble effect?
Yes, mix oats with butter and brown sugar for a topping.
Can I use pears instead of apples?
Definitely—pears add a delicate sweetness that works beautifully.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweet apple filling makes it very family-friendly.
🏁 Conclusion
This Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash is everything fall should taste like—warm, spiced, sweet, and hearty. With tender roasted squash and a fragrant apple filling, it’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive.
Serve it as a holiday side, a vegetarian main, or even as a cozy weeknight dinner. However you enjoy it, this recipe is proof that simple seasonal ingredients can create something truly delicious.