Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash

Name: Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed; 1 pound ground turkey; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Olive oil for drizzling; Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I love making Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash during the fall when the flavors of the season come alive. This dish is not only visually stunning, but it also combines sweet and savory elements that make it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. The nutty flavor of the acorn squash pairs beautifully with the seasoned turkey and earthy herbs, creating a heartwarming meal. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthier option to enjoy during the holidays.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:05:19.025Z

When I first made Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash, I was searching for a festive dish that would impress my guests. The vibrant colors and rich flavors felt like a celebration of autumn on a plate. I realized that roasting the squash enhances its natural sweetness, setting the stage for a delightful filling.

Through experimentation, I discovered that adding a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the turkey mix elevates the entire dish, balancing the savory and sweet notes perfectly. This is a recipe I return to every year, and it never disappoints!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful harmony of sweet and savory flavors
Nutritious and hearty, perfect for family meals
Visually stunning and festive for any occasion

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stuffed Squash

When preparing acorn squash, it’s crucial to achieve a tender yet firm texture. The initial roasting at 400°F (200°C) helps caramelize the sugars in the flesh, enhancing the natural sweetness. After flipping the squash, gently press the stuffing into the cavity, ensuring it melds with the flesh while maintaining a bit of texture. This approach not only helps in blending flavors but prevents the stuffing from becoming too dry or falling out during serving.

For the turkey filling, ensure you cook the ground turkey thoroughly until it's nicely browned. This Maillard reaction creates deeper flavors, making your dish more satisfying. If using a lower-fat ground turkey, you might need to add a splash of broth or a drizzle of olive oil when sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance moisture and prevent sticking.

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the herbs and spices in your stuffing. For a kick of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try swapping the thyme and oregano for sage or rosemary, both of which complement turkey beautifully. Additionally, you can substitute the quinoa with rice or farro for a texture variation that maintains the dish's heartiness.

For cheese lovers, consider incorporating different types of cheese based on your preference or what you have on hand—feta, goat cheese, or even sharp cheddar can add unique flavors. If you prefer a dairy-free option, omit the cheese altogether or use a vegan cheese substitute, ensuring to keep the filling moist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash halves make the perfect leftovers for quick meals throughout the week. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're warmed through, ensuring that the squash remains tender without becoming mushy.

If you'd like to prepare these ahead of time, you can complete the stuffing step and store the filled squash unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes of cooking time for cold squash. This makes hosting a breeze, enabling you to enjoy the gathering without all the last-minute fuss.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to begin your Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash.

Ingredients

2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Olive oil for drizzling
Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start preparing the dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash.

Roast the Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the halved acorn squashes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground turkey, cooking until browned. Stir in the quinoa, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Stuff the Squash

Carefully flip the roasted squash halves over. Fill each half with the turkey mixture, pressing it in lightly. Top with grated cheese if desired.

Final Bake

Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until heated through and the tops are golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!

Finally, enjoy your delicious Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or cranberries to the turkey filling. This will not only enhance the taste but also add delightful textures.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed squashes are visually impressive on their own, but pairing them with a simple side salad can elevate the meal. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffing. Alternatively, serve with a sweet apple cider reduction for a particularly festive touch during the holidays.

As an alternative serving suggestion, consider slicing the stuffed squashes into wedges for easier serving. This presentation allows guests to enjoy both the filling and acorn squash in each bite. You can also serve the filling on a bed of sautéed greens for a fully delectable plate.

Make-Ahead Ideas

If you're short on time during holiday prep, consider making the stuffing a day in advance. Cook the turkey and mix in the other ingredients, then refrigerate. The next day, simply fill the roasted squash and bake. Making the filling ahead can intensify the flavors, as everything has time to meld together.

For a freezer-friendly option, you can prepare the stuffed acorn squash up to the final baking step, then wrap them tightly in foil and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they're thoroughly heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with chicken, beef, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling a day in advance and stuff the squashes before baking them when ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze the filled acorn squash?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed squash before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.

→ What can I serve with Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.