Why Make This Recipe

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Cheese is a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s healthy, flavorful, and offers a wonderful combination of textures. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors from the bacon and cheese. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that can serve as a main dish or a satisfying side.

How to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 medium butternut squash
2 cups fresh spinach
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the flesh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, until tender.
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
Combine the spinach mixture with the cooked bacon and shredded cheese.
Once the squash is done, flip it over and fill each half with the spinach, bacon, and cheese mixture.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve warm as a side dish.

How to Serve Stuffed Butternut Squash

Stuffed Butternut Squash makes a great side dish for any meal. It pairs well with roasted meats, like chicken or pork, and can also serve as a hearty vegetarian option when enjoyed on its own. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for added flavor and color.

How to Store Stuffed Butternut Squash

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option.

Tips to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash

Make sure to roast the squash until it’s soft enough to scoop easily. A little char on the edges adds great flavor.
Feel free to adjust the cheese according to your taste. Feta or goat cheese can also be great alternatives.
If you want a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture.

Variation

You can customize the filling to your liking! Try adding different vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini. You could also substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option, or go vegan by omitting the bacon and cheese, adding extra veggies and grains like quinoa or brown rice instead.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.

How do I know when the squash is done roasting?

The squash is done when it’s fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce the flesh with a fork.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed squash ahead of time. Assemble the filling and store it separately from the squash. When you’re ready to bake, stuff the squash and bake as directed.