Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash

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Golden, tender acorn squash filled to the brim with savory turkey sausage, crisp apples, and bursts of tart cranberry—this Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash is fall comfort in every bite. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, yet vibrant and colorful enough to impress your holiday guests.

The natural sweetness of roasted squash balances beautifully with the savory stuffing mixture. Every mouthful offers a medley of textures and flavors: juicy turkey, crunchy celery, chewy cranberries, and warm notes of sage and thyme. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or prepping for a festive table, this dish is the perfect seasonal centerpiece.

What Kind of Squash Should I Use?

Acorn squash is ideal for stuffing due to its shape and flavor. It has a mild sweetness and tender flesh that caramelizes slightly when roasted. Choose squashes that feel heavy for their size and have smooth, dull skin with no soft spots.

Ingredients for the Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash

Acorn Squash: The base of the dish. When roasted, it becomes tender and slightly sweet—a perfect contrast to the savory filling.

Ground Turkey Sausage: Lean and flavorful, turkey sausage adds hearty protein with plenty of spice.

Apple: A sweet, crisp apple like Honeycrisp or Gala adds balance and brightness.

Celery: Adds a pleasant crunch and aromatic flavor to the stuffing.

Onion: Essential for building a rich, savory flavor base.

Dried Cranberries: Offer a pop of color and tart-sweet contrast.

Bread Crumbs: Help bind the stuffing mixture together and add texture.

Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and giving the stuffing richness.

Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds color.

Sage and Thyme: Classic herbs that bring warm, earthy notes to the filling.

Salt & Pepper: To taste, rounding out all the flavors.

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How To Make the Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the flesh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast cut side down at 400°F for about 30 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté diced onion, celery, and apples until softened. Add the ground turkey sausage and cook until browned. Stir in dried cranberries, herbs, salt, and pepper. Finally, mix in breadcrumbs and chopped parsley.

Step 3: Stuff and Bake

Flip the roasted squash halves over and fill each with a generous scoop of the stuffing. Return to the oven for 15 minutes until everything is golden and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Top with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, savory-sweet flavors.

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How to Serve and Store This Recipe

This Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash makes a striking presentation right out of the oven. Serve each half as an individual portion for an easy, elegant meal.

Leftovers store beautifully. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, remove the stuffing and freeze separately.

What to Serve With Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash?

Garlic Roasted Green Beans

Their crisp-tender texture and garlicky flavor pair well with the hearty stuffing.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

This indulgent potato side balances the lean turkey with a comforting, creamy bite. See recipe

Cranberry Orange Relish

A tangy, fresh contrast that doubles down on seasonal flavor. Get the recipe

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Crispy edges and fluffy centers make these a crowd favorite. Try them here

Soft Dinner Rolls

A warm roll to mop up every last bite of squash and stuffing.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If this Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe has your taste buds singing, check out these other savory favorites:

• Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy for a classic comfort food night.
• Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet for a wholesome, one-pan meal.
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet for a creamy, cheesy family dinner.
• Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken if you’re craving golden crunch.
• Easy Shepherd’s Pie for that nostalgic, hearty layering.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this comforting fall dinner to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily revisit it on chilly nights.

Tried it with a spicy twist? Maybe a cornbread stuffing or extra sage? I’d love to hear your version—share your tips in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest.

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