Savory Stuffed Butternut Squash with Charleston Rice & Sausage
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish that blends the sweetness of butternut squash with the savory flavors of sausage, rice, and fragrant herbs. This stuffed butternut squash recipe is perfect for a cozy meal and can easily be customized to your family’s taste.
Ingredients
1 butternut squash, halved and deseeded*
Olive oil (seasoned oil recommended)*
2 tbsp maple syrup*
1/2 cup Charleston’s favorite rice*
1/2 lb sausage, browned and crumbled*
1/4 cup dried cranberries, diced*
Apple juice (optional, for soaking cranberries)
1 tsp seasoning of choice (purple sage, rosemary, thyme, or herbs de Provence)*
Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
*Ingredients available in our Market!
Directions
1. Prepare & Roast the Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Score the top of the squash about 1/4 inch deep. Drizzle with oil—we recommend using a seasoned oil for added depth of flavor. Place the squash face down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.
2. Add Maple Syrup & Continue Roasting:
Remove the squash from the oven and flip it face up. Drizzle generously with maple syrup, allowing it to pool in the neck of the squash—that’s perfectly fine! Return to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the squash is roasting, cook 1/2 cup of rice according to package instructions. Brown the sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Dice the dried cranberries and add them to the rice mixture—if you prefer extra sweetness, soak them in apple juice beforehand. Stir in your choice of seasoning, blending the flavors together.
4. Scoop & Mix:
Once the squash is done roasting, allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle. Use a knife to score around the edges about 1/4 inch in and 1/2 inch deep. Scoop out the flesh with an ice cream scoop, dice it, and mix it into the rice and sausage filling.
5. Fill & Final Bake:
Stuff the squash halves with the prepared filling, pressing it in gently. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Return the stuffed squash to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese and warm everything through.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
Take the squash out of the oven, and admire your beautiful creation! The combination of sweet, savory, and fragrant herbs makes this a perfect dish for fall or winter.
Customization Ideas:
This dish is incredibly versatile! Try these variations to suit your preferences:
Vegetarian: Swap sausage for mushrooms or Beyond Burger.
Mediterranean Twist: Use mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and red onion, and drizzle with balsamic instead of maple syrup.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes for heat.
With endless possibilities, this stuffed butternut squash will become a favorite on your dinner table. Enjoy!
