Looking for a cozy, nutritious dish that will impress your family and friends? Dive into the delightful world of Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash! This vibrant recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted acorn squash with a hearty filling of rice, black beans, and corn, all seasoned to perfection. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 acorn squashes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup black beans
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the acorn squash cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any stringy flesh from the center, creating a hollow cavity for the stuffing.
- Place the halved acorn squashes cut side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over the flesh and sprinkle with salt. This will enhance the flavor and help them roast beautifully.
- Bake the acorn squashes in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can check for doneness by piercing the flesh with a fork.
- While the squashes are baking, prepare the stuffing. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Once the acorn squashes are done baking, remove them from the oven and carefully fill each cavity with the rice mixture. Pack the stuffing lightly to ensure it stays in place.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the stuffed acorn squashes. This will melt during the final baking and add a delicious cheesy layer.
- Return the stuffed acorn squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the stuffed acorn squashes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to handle.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious rice stuffed acorn squash!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for acorn squashes that feel heavy for their size with a firm skin. This indicates freshness and optimal flavor.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! You can add diced bell peppers, onions, or even some cooked ground turkey for added protein.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Make sure to bake the acorn squashes until they are tender. This enhances their natural sweetness and ensures a perfect texture for stuffing.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for topping, such as feta for a tangy twist or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your stuffed acorn squash with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It also makes for an excellent leftover dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
