Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash

Nothing says fall like roasted Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash stuffed with savory sausage and sweet, juicy apples. This comforting dish is packed with warm flavors and makes a satisfying meal all on its own.

Easy Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

An absolute fall favorite around here, acorn squash just feels right when the weather starts to cool down. It’s so versatile and it’s got that perfect balance of savory with just a touch of natural sweetness, and when you roast it up, it turns tender and caramelized in all the right ways. It’s mighty good with a little butter, salt, and pepper, but it really shines when you stuff it full of something hearty, like we’re doing in this Southern stuffed squash recipe.

And can we talk about how pretty it is? That deep green skin and golden center make it look right at home on the table, whether it’s a weeknight supper or something a little more special. The best part? It’s simple to make and doesn’t require anything fancy.

Acorn squash is what they call a winter squash, because it’s harvested late in the season and keeps well through those cooler months. So when you’re craving something warm, filling, and comforting, it’s ready and waiting. Cozy, wholesome, and full of flavor, that’s hard to beat.

Key ingredients you’ll need to make Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage: (Scroll down for the full printable recipe card.)

• Squash – Two acorn squash. Choose similar size squash for even baking.
• Sausage – Sweet or spicy Italian sausage gives the filling a rich meaty flavor.
• Apple – Granny Smith apples add texture and a hint of sweetness.
• Onion, Celery and Garlic – Onion, celery and garlic completes the flavor profile.
• Oil – Extra-virgin olive oil for cooking the sausage.
• Spices – Salt, black pepper and dried thyme.
• Fresh Herbs – Fresh rosemary and parsley for an herby flavor.
• Butter – Melted butter adds richness to the breadcrumb topping.
• Breadcrumbs – Fresh breadcrumbs bind the filling.
• Cheese – Grated Parmesan cheese enhances the filling.

How to Make the BEST Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

• Heat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish – Preheat oven to 400 degrees f and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Prep the Squash – Cut squash in half and remove the seeds. Season with salt and black pepper and drizzle with oil. Place seam side down on pan and bake until tender.
• Sauté Veggies and Sausage – Cook onion, celery, salt, black pepper, rosemary and thyme until softened then add sausage and garlic. Cook until no pink remains.
• Finish with Breadcrumbs and Herbs – Stir in bread crumbs and parsley. Mix well.
• Assemble Squash – Divide filling among acorn halves and sprinkle the tops with shredded Parmesan cheese.
• Oven – Roast per the baking time in the recipe, then serve.

Kitchen Equipment to Make Southern Stuffed Acorn Squash

• Sharp knife and cutting board.
• Large skillet.
• 13×9-inch baking dish or baking sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
• Apple corer.
• Measuring cups and measuring spoons.
• Large spoon or wooden spoon.

Recipe Variations, Tips and Substitutions

• Slice Squash Through the Middle – Cut the squash halves through the middle and not from top to bottom to take advantage of the shape adding to the visual appeal.
• Protein – I use mild Italian sausage in this recipe, but if you’d like to add some kick, go with spicy Italian sausage. You could also use breakfast sausage, ground turkey, ground chicken or chorizo.
• Apples – You can use honey crisp apples, Braeburn apples or gala apples.
• Meatless – You can leave out the sausage altogether or use a meat alternative that you enjoy.
• Vegetables – You could add 1 cup diced mushrooms to the sausage mixture for added bulk. Use portabella mushrooms shiitakes or your favorite variety.
• Greens – You could sauté kale or spinach with the sausage mixture.
• Nuts – You could add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Fruit – You could replace the apple with dried cranberries, instead.

Tips for How to Roast Acorn Squash

• In general, there’s no need to peel acorn squash before roasting whether for this recipe or another. The skin should be thoroughly cleaned, but kept intact to keep the squash from falling apart when roasting.
• Can You Eat the Peel? The peel is packed with nutrients and it softens and mellows when roasted. Much like the skin of  a baked potato, it can be eaten.
• Acorn squash can be cubed or cut into wedges for roasting on a sheet pan.
• How to Roast Acorn Squash – To roast it, drizzle with olive oil and season simply with salt and pepper, or butter and a light sprinkling of brown sugar. You can also enhance the flavor with fragrant herbs such as fresh rosemary and tarragon.
• What Temperature to Bake Acorn Squash – As a general rule, roast in a 400°F for 25 minutes or until fork tender and caramelized. Time could vary depending on the size of the squash being roasted.

Storage and Leftovers

• Leftovers – Store baked Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash in an airtight container chilled in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Reheat in a 350°F air fryer or oven on a sheet pan for 10 minutes or just until heated through.
• Freezer – You can freeze the filling for stuffed squash for a timesaver. Thaw in the fridge and assemble the squash per the recipe just before serving.

More Squash Recipes to Make

• Butternut Squash Soup topped with roasted butternut squash seeds and a dollop of sour cream.
• Squash Croquettes  are made using acorn squash’s cousin, yellow squash.
• Homestyle Squash Casserole is a potluck favorite that’s delicious year-round.
• Chicken Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is a fun way to shake-up your main dishes.
• Baked Squash Parmesan makes a delicious meatless entree or side dish option with pasta.
• Crispy Fried Squash makes a tasty side dish or an appetizer.
• Squash Rice Casserole from Southern Living.

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Helpful Kitchen Items:

• Muffin Pan
• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Apple Corer