Stuffed Roasted Butternut

Stuffed Roasted Butternut is a comforting and elegant dish that showcases the natural sweetness of butternut squash, complemented by a savory, herb-infused stuffing and topped with golden rounds of creamy goat cheese. Perfect as a vegetarian main or a hearty side, this recipe balances texture and flavor beautifully, offering a cozy, oven-baked option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ideal for fall and winter meals or festive holiday spreads
• A wholesome vegetarian option with rich, satisfying flavors
• Combines creamy, caramelized squash with a crispy, savory stuffing
• Simple to prepare with everyday ingredients
• Beautiful presentation makes it perfect for entertaining
• Easily adaptable to suit different dietary preferences
• Provides a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals
• Pairs well with salads, grains, or roasted meats
• Can be made ahead and reheated without losing texture
• A great way to make vegetables the star of the meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh thyme
• Cooked quinoa or rice (optional for stuffing base)
• Breadcrumbs or panko
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Goat cheese, sliced
• Fresh herbs for garnish (thyme, parsley, or rosemary)

Directions

1. Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender and beginning to caramelize around the edges.
3. Prepare the Filling: While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then stir in fresh thyme, cooked quinoa or rice (if using), breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and season to taste.
4. Stuff the Squash: Once the squash is roasted, remove from the oven and carefully fill each half with the prepared stuffing. Top with slices of goat cheese.
5. Bake Again: Return the stuffed squash to the oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top before serving. Serve warm as a main or hearty side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese and skip Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.
• Add Protein: Mix cooked lentils or chickpeas into the stuffing for added protein.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the breadcrumb mixture for extra texture.
• Spicy Touch: Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the garlic mixture for heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try feta, blue cheese, or shredded mozzarella instead of goat cheese.
• Grain-Free: Omit grains and use more vegetables in the stuffing like mushrooms or spinach.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture, especially the cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the squash and prepare the filling a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.

What type of goat cheese works best?

A log of creamy goat cheese is ideal as it melts and browns nicely. Avoid pre-crumbled varieties for this use.

Can I freeze stuffed roasted butternut?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the squash halves without the cheese topping. Add cheese when reheating.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

With a few substitutions—plant-based cheese and no Parmesan—it can be made vegan.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a crisp salad, warm grain bowl, or as a side to roast meats.

How do I know when the squash is done roasting?

The squash is ready when it is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are lightly browned.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, acorn or delicata squash can be used, but roasting time may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.

Can I add meat to the stuffing?

Absolutely. Cooked sausage, bacon, or ground turkey can be added to the filling.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Thyme, rosemary, and sage work particularly well with roasted butternut squash and goat cheese.

Conclusion

Stuffed Roasted Butternut is a wholesome and visually impressive dish that brings warmth and depth of flavor to your table. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or a festive side, its balance of sweet, savory, and creamy elements makes it a go-to vegetarian recipe that even meat lovers will enjoy.

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