Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

Elevate your autumn table with the irresistible flavors of Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash! This recipe combines tender roasted acorn squash with a fragrant filling of caramelized apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, making it the ultimate comfort food. A drizzle of maple syrup and optional add-ins like crunchy pecans and tangy dried cranberries add layers of sweetness and texture that bring this dish to life. Perfect as a festive side dish or a vegetarian main, this easy-to-make recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep and is ready to delight in under an hour. Serve it as a cozy addition to your holiday spread or as a wholesome weeknight meal that celebrates the best of fall flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 85/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pieces acorn squash
• 2 pieces apple
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 cup pecans (optional)
• 0.25 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2

Cut each acorn squash in half, from stem to tip, and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center.

Step 3

Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25 minutes, or until the flesh begins to soften.

Step 4

Meanwhile, core and dice the apples into small cubes. Set them aside.

Step 5

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, cooking until the mixture becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized, about 2 minutes.

Step 6

Add the diced apples to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften slightly. If desired, stir in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.

Step 7

Remove the squash from the oven and carefully flip them over, cut-side up.

Step 8

Brush the interior of each squash half with maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Step 9

Divide the apple mixture evenly among the four squash halves, spooning it into the hollowed centers.

Step 10

Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and the apple filling is bubbling and golden.

Step 11

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm as a standalone dish or alongside roasted proteins or greens for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2229.7 grams (2229.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1666

Total Fat 26.60g	34%
Saturated Fat 14.60g	73%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.20g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 670mg	29%
Total Carbohydrate 377.80g	137%
Dietary Fiber 87.60g	313%
Total Sugars 108.20g
Protein 20.50g	41%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 828mg	64%
Iron 11mg	60%
Potassium 8016mg	171%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 13.1%

Protein: 4.5%

Carbs: 82.5%