Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash

4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 large acorn squash

    halved and seeded

  • 1 cup water
  • 3/4 pound ground beef
  • 1 celery rib

    chopped

  • 1 small onion

    chopped

  • 1 medium tart apple

    chopped

  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup sunflower kernels
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 egg

    beaten

  • 5 teaspoons brown sugar

    divided

  • 1-1/4 teaspoons salt

    divided

  • 4 teaspoons butter

Directions

  1. 1

    Invert squash in two ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dishes. Add water and cover with foil. Bake at 375° for 40-45 minutes or until tender.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, cook the beef, celery and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender; drain. Add the apple, rice, sunflower kernels and curry. Cook and stir until apple is tender. Remove from the heat. Stir in the egg, 1 teaspoon brown sugar and 3/4 teaspoon salt.

  3. 3

    Place squash cut side up on a baking sheet. Place 1 teaspoon remaining brown sugar and 1 teaspoon butter in each half. Sprinkle with remaining salt. Fill with meat mixture.

  4. 4

    Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash

4 servings

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About this Recipe

Looking for a comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? This Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe delivers a complete, satisfying dinner in one beautifully presented package, making mealtime both easy and delicious.This recipe truly shines through its thoughtful combination of savory and sweet elements. The ground beef filling is richly seasoned, brightened by the unexpected sweetness of chopped apple, and infused with the aromatic warmth of curry powder. This creates a wonderfully balanced flavor profile that elevates a simple weeknight dinner into something special.You can expect a dish that’s both substantial and incredibly flavorful. The natural, earthy sweetness of tender acorn squash provides the perfect vessel for a robust, savory filling. Each half is generously packed with seasoned ground beef, fluffy cooked rice, and finely chopped vegetables like celery and onion, ensuring a satisfying texture in every bite. A touch of brown sugar subtly enhances the natural sweetness, while sunflower kernels introduce a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the tender ingredients. The gentle spice from the curry powder infuses a comforting warmth, making this an ideal meal for gathering around the table.This Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe is also wonderfully versatile. You could easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, pork, or even a plant-based mince for a vegetarian option. Feel free to experiment with different cooked grains like quinoa or farro instead of rice, or try pecans or walnuts in place of sunflower kernels for an alternative nutty flavor. For a different aromatic profile, consider adding dried herbs like thyme or sage, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.Serve this Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash as a complete meal on its own, showcasing its natural elegance. It also pairs beautifully with a simple, crisp green salad or a side of steamed green beans for added freshness. It’s a wonderful choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your fall and winter entertaining repertoire.

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