Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach & Bacon

Introduction

Stuffed butternut squash is a delightful and healthy dish perfect for any season. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like feta cheese, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon. This recipe is simple to make and brings a burst of flavor to your table.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make stuffed butternut squash! First, it’s a nutritious option packed with vitamins and minerals. Butternut squash is rich in fiber and antioxidants. Adding spinach provides even more nutrients, while the feta and bacon add delicious savory depth. Plus, it looks beautiful when served, making it a great choice for dinner parties or family meals.

How to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash

Ingredients:

2 medium butternut squashes, halved and seeds removed
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Spinach (amount to taste)
Feta cheese (amount to taste)
Bacon (cooked and crumbled, amount to taste)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Brush the butternut squash halves with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble the bacon.
In the same skillet, sauté spinach in the remaining olive oil until wilted.
In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
Once the squash is done roasting, turn it cut-side up and fill each half with the spinach, bacon, and feta mixture.
Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to heat through.
Serve warm.

How to Serve Stuffed Butternut Squash

Stuffed butternut squash can be served as a main dish or a side. Pair it with a simple green salad for a light meal, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or steak for a heartier option. Enjoy it warm, as the flavors are best when fresh.

How to Store Stuffed Butternut Squash

To store any leftovers, let the stuffed squash cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash

Adjust the amount of feta and bacon based on your taste.
Try adding other ingredients like nuts or herbs for extra flavor.
Make sure to roast the squash until it’s soft for easier filling.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by swapping the feta with goat cheese or using different leafy greens like kale. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon!

FAQs

1. Can I make stuffed butternut squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the squash just before baking.

2. What can I serve with stuffed butternut squash?
It pairs well with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or grilled meats for a complete meal.

3. Can I freeze stuffed butternut squash?
It’s not recommended to freeze after baking, but you can freeze the filled raw squash before roasting for later use. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready to eat!

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish that everyone will love!