Turkey Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach

Savory, hearty, and brimming with wholesome goodness, this Turkey Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach is a nourishing dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Roasted butternut squash becomes a tender, slightly sweet base for a flavorful filling of lean turkey sausage, sautéed spinach, onions, and herbs. Finished with a sprinkle of cheese or fresh herbs, it’s a well-balanced meal perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Wholesome & Hearty – Naturally sweet squash paired with savory sausage.
Flavor-Packed – Herbs, garlic, and onion bring bold taste to every bite.
Protein-Rich – Lean turkey sausage keeps it satisfying and balanced.
Great for Meal Prep – Store and reheat easily for busy weeknights.
Beautiful Presentation – Looks fancy, but it’s easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Squash:

• 2 medium butternut squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 1 lb turkey sausage (casings removed, or use ground turkey with Italian seasoning)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or basil
• Extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or scoop
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush cut sides of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until flesh is fork-tender. Remove from oven and cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage Filling
5. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
6. Add turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6–8 minutes).
7. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
8. Stir in garlic, chopped spinach, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
9. Sauté until spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Squash Boats
10. Carefully scoop out some of the cooked squash flesh, creating a well in the center of each half (leave a ½-inch border).
11. Add the scooped squash into the sausage filling and mix to combine.

Step 4: Stuff & Bake
12. Spoon the filling evenly into each squash half.
13. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if using.
14. Return to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
15. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil, and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Squash
Use Ripe Squash – Look for squash with firm skin and no soft spots.
Don’t Overcook the Squash – It should hold its shape and not collapse.
Add Extra Veggies – Mushrooms or bell peppers blend well into the filling.
Make it Cheesy – Add your favorite melty cheese to the top or mix into the filling.
Spice It Up – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions
Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the rich filling.
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra squash or sausage filling.
Steamed Broccoli – Adds extra greens to your plate.
Wild Rice – Serve on the side for a grain boost.
Cranberry Sauce – For a sweet and tart contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes—thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the skillet.
2. What’s the best substitute for turkey sausage?
   Use ground chicken or beef with added Italian seasoning, or a vegetarian sausage.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Yes—assemble and refrigerate before the final bake. Add 10 minutes to the bake time.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Absolutely—just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
5. What should I do with leftover scooped squash?
   Add it to the filling or save it for soups, stews, or mashed squash.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Sausage-Stuffed Butternut Squash with Spinach is the perfect balance of wholesome and hearty. It’s packed with protein and nutrients, and its vibrant colors and comforting flavors make it a standout dish for fall, winter, or any cozy dinner at home. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your creations on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your stuffed squash masterpieces.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 4 servings):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Sodium: 520mg

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