Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash

This comforting and hearty dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted acorn squash with a savory ground beef stuffing. Perfect for a cozy dinner, Ground Beef Stuffed Acorn Squash offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The tender, slightly sweet squash pairs beautifully with the rich and flavorful beef mixture, which is enhanced with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a touch of cheese. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that makes for a wonderful presentation on your dinner table, especially during the cooler months.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: To the skillet with the beef, add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the Filling: Add the tomato sauce and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly.
5. Stuff the Squash: Remove the roasted acorn squash halves from the oven and carefully turn them cut side up. Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each squash half, packing it in gently. Sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese.
6. Bake Again: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome meal!

Feel free to add your own twist to the filling, such as using different vegetables, adding rice, or mixing in some dried fruit like cranberries for a bit of sweetness.