Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Cheese

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Cheese

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach, Bacon, and Cheese is a warm and comforting dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun family meal. The sweet butternut squash pairs beautifully with salty bacon, fresh spinach, and melty cheese.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it’s nutritious and delicious! You get the sweetness from the squash, the saltiness from the bacon, and the creaminess from the cheeses. Plus, it’s easy to make and looks impressive when served!

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

Ingredients

  • 2 medium butternut squashes, halved and seeds removed
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the halved butternut squashes cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Mix in the cooked bacon, and remove from heat.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the spinach and bacon mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
  6. Once the butternut squashes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and fill each half with the spinach and cheese mixture.
  7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve warm, optionally garnished with crushed red pepper flakes.

How to Serve Stuffed Butternut Squash

Serve the stuffed butternut squash warm on a plate. It makes a nice main dish for dinner. You can drizzle a bit more olive oil on top or add some crushed red pepper flakes if you like heat.

How to Store Stuffed Butternut Squash

Let any leftovers cool before storing them. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving again.

Tips to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash

  • Make sure to roast the squashes until they are very tender.
  • You can adjust the amount of cheese based on your taste.
  • For extra crunch, add some breadcrumbs on top before the last baking time.

Variation

You can swap out the spinach for kale or add different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling. If you want a vegetarian option, just leave out the bacon!

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen spinach?

    • Yes, you can. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water before using it in the filling.

  2. What’s the best way to cut butternut squash?

    • Use a sharp knife and be careful. You can cut off the ends first, then cut it in half lengthwise.

  3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

    • Yes, you can prepare everything up to filling the squash ahead of time, then bake it just before serving.

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