Stuffed Butternut Squash

Elevate your dinner game with this comforting and hearty dish that's as delicious as it is impressive! This stuffed butternut squash is filled with a creamy spinach mixture, topped with savory turkey bacon, and melted cheese for the ultimate cozy meal.

Ingredients:

1 large butternut squash, halved and seeds removed

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 tablespoon butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups fresh spinach

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Squash:

Drizzle the cut sides of the butternut squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.

Roast in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Prepare the Filling:

While the squash is roasting, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Stuff the Squash:

Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Carefully scoop out some of the flesh to create a hollow center in each squash half, leaving about 1/2 inch of squash around the edges.

Mix the scooped squash flesh into the spinach mixture, then spoon the filling evenly into each squash half.

Top and Bake:

Sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon over the filled squash halves.

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, savory delight!

This Stuffed Butternut Squash is a beautiful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the hearty flavor of turkey bacon and the earthy taste of spinach. It’s a perfect dish for cozy nights! 🍂🥓

🧀 #blackstonerecipe #savoryfood #savorycomfortfood