Description
This Stuffed Butternut Squash is the ultimate comfort food meets healthy indulgence! With roasted butternut squash filled with a creamy Parmesan, spinach, and bacon mixture, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for fall.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium butternut squash
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
- 8 strips cooked bacon, chopped
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep the Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Roast the Squash
- Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3️⃣ Prepare the Filling
- While the squash is roasting, sauté the spinach in olive oil until wilted.
- In a large bowl, mix together:
✅ Softened cream cheese
✅ Shredded Parmesan cheese
✅ Sautéed spinach
✅ Half of the chopped bacon - Mix well until creamy and combined.
4️⃣ Stuff the Squash
- Flip the roasted squash halves cut side up.
- Scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a 1-inch border (save for another use like soup or mash).
- Fill the squash halves with the spinach, cheese, and bacon mixture.
5️⃣ Bake Again & Broil
- Sprinkle the remaining chopped bacon on top.
- Bake for 15 more minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Optional: Broil for 3-5 minutes to get a golden, crispy top.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or toasted nuts for added crunch.
- Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, comforting, and hearty dish! ????????????
Notes
- Want It Extra Creamy? Add ½ cup shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
- Need More Protein? Stir in cooked chicken or turkey to the filling.
- Make It Vegetarian: Omit bacon and add toasted nuts or sautéed mushrooms.
- Use the Leftover Squash Flesh: Blend into soups, mash it, or mix into pasta sauces.