Description
Warm, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, this Turkey Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Roasted butternut squash halves are filled with a savory mixture of turkey sausage, sautéed spinach, and aromatic herbs, then baked to perfection. It’s a hearty, low-carb dinner that’s naturally gluten-free and a great centerpiece for fall or winter meals.
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Ingredients
• 2 medium butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 lb ground turkey sausage
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups baby spinach
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Squash
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Drizzle the cut sides of the butternut squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 40–45 minutes, or until flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Filling
While the squash roasts, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook another minute.
Stir in ground turkey sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
Add thyme, paprika, red pepper flakes, and spinach.
Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Hollow the Squash (Optional)
Once the squash is roasted, remove from oven and flip cut-side up.
If the cavity is small, scoop out a little of the cooked flesh and mix it into the sausage filling for extra flavor.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Spoon the sausage-spinach mixture into the squash cavities.
Top with grated Parmesan if using.
Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Each squash half can be served as a generous single portion.
Notes
Choose Uniform Squash – Even sizes ensure even roasting.
Use Pre-Cut Squash – For faster prep, cube and roast if you prefer a casserole style.
Boost the Flavor – Add a squeeze of lemon or drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Make It Dairy-Free – Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Add Extras – Try mushrooms, diced apple, or chopped nuts for texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American