Cheesy Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

Easy Cheesy Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe for Fall Nights

Culinary magic happens when you combine cheesy rice-stuffed acorn squash into a comforting autumn dish that surprises every time.

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when seasonal ingredients meet unexpected techniques.

Squash transforms from simple vegetable to stunning centerpiece through careful preparation and creative seasoning.

Nutty roasted acorn shells cradle warm, melted cheese and perfectly cooked rice like edible treasure chests.

Creamy textures blend wonderfully with sharp cheese notes, creating balanced flavor profiles that delight curious palates.

Minimal ingredients promise maximum satisfaction without complicated cooking methods.

You’ll want to savor each delectable spoonful and share this delightful recipe with everyone at your table.

Cheesy Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash Features

  • Prepare this delightful dish in under an hour with simple steps that even novice cooks can master.
  • Packed with wholesome ingredients like acorn squash and cheese, offering a balanced and satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet healthy.
  • Perfect for busy families looking for a hearty side dish or light main course that impresses without complicated techniques.
  • Celebrates autumn's bounty by featuring acorn squash, making it an ideal recipe for fall gatherings and cozy dinners at home.

List of Ingredients for Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Main Ingredients:

Acorn Squash: A sweet, nutty winter squash perfect for stuffing, with a rich texture and natural bowl-like shape that makes it ideal for this recipe.

Rice: A versatile grain that provides hearty filling and absorbs flavors well, preferably using long-grain white or brown rice for best texture.

Cheese and Dairy:
  • Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Sharp cheeses that add rich, tangy flavor and creamy melting qualities to the stuffing, with Parmesan bringing extra depth.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Olive Oil: Helps roast squash evenly and adds subtle richness, choose extra virgin for best flavor.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of squash and cheese.
Additional Stuffing Components:
  • Herbs (Optional): Fresh thyme or parsley can add brightness and complexity to the dish.

Instructions to Prepare Cheesy Acorn Squash

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C) to create the perfect cooking environment.

Step 2: Prepare Squash Halves

Slice the acorn squash in half and remove the seeds with a spoon.

  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Generously brush the inside of each squash half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Position Squash for Roasting

Place the squash halves face-down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re evenly spread.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the squash roast for 25-30 minutes. Check for tenderness by inserting a fork- it should glide in smoothly when the squash is fully cooked.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

The squash is ready when the flesh becomes soft and easily pierced, with a slightly caramelized exterior.

Step 6: Remove and Rest

Carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the squash halves cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips for Cheesy Stuffed Acorn Squash

  • Slice Squash Safely: Use a sharp, sturdy knife and cut acorn squash carefully on a stable cutting board to prevent slipping and ensure even halves.
  • Check Tenderness Perfectly: Test squash doneness by inserting a fork into the flesh; it should glide in smoothly without resistance.
  • Enhance Cheese Selection: Select melting cheeses like gruyere, fontina, or sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and creamy texture in the stuffing.
  • Customize Dietary Needs: Swap regular cheese with vegan alternatives or use quinoa instead of rice for gluten-free and plant-based versions of the dish.
  • Prevent Soggy Bottom: Place squash cut-side down initially to release moisture and create a slightly caramelized surface during roasting.

Reheat and Storage Guide for Acorn Squash Dish

  • Store leftover stuffed squash in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Place them carefully to maintain their shape.
  • Warm stuffed squash at 350F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and preserve moisture.
  • Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water to keep the squash tender and prevent rubbery texture.
  • Enjoy leftovers within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture. Discard if any signs of spoilage appear.

Serving Ideas for Cheesy Acorn Squash Meals

  • Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc that cuts through the richness of the cheesy rice, balancing the squash's sweetness with its bright, acidic notes.
  • Select a light-bodied Pinot Noir with earthy hints that echoes the squash's subtle nutty flavor and complements the warm, comforting cheese blend.
  • Add a simple side salad with fresh arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette to provide a peppery, tangy contrast that brightens the dish's creamy texture.
  • Include a small portion of roasted almonds or toasted pine nuts as a crunchy garnish to add textural complexity and enhance the squash's natural nuttiness.

Alternative Stuffings for Acorn Squash Recipe

  • Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based rice medley mixed with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a protein-packed alternative.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower and use low-fat mozzarella or goat cheese to create a keto-friendly version of the stuffed squash.
  • Gluten-Free Quinoa Edition: Use quinoa instead of rice and add herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance the flavor profile for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Incorporate feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of za'atar spice blend to transform the original recipe into a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish.

FAQs About Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash Dish

  • What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice or brown rice are excellent choices. Jasmine or basmati rice can also add a nice flavor to the stuffing.

  • Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the protein content.

  • How do I know when the acorn squash is perfectly roasted?

The squash is ready when you can easily pierce it with a fork and the flesh becomes tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. The skin should also look slightly wrinkled and soft.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any cheese or additional ingredients you use are certified gluten-free if you have specific dietary concerns.

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Cheesy Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

Cheesy Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe


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4.5 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delightful Cheesy Rice-Stuffed Acorn Squash blends rustic autumn flavors with comforting textures. Hearty rice, melted cheese, and roasted squash create a satisfying meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetable and Aromatics:

  • ½ small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped (or kale)

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Extra shredded cheese for broiling
  • Chopped fresh parsley or thyme

Instructions

  1. Prepare the acorn squash by halving it lengthwise and scooping out the seeds, creating a clean vessel for the cheesy rice filling.
  2. Massage the squash interior with olive oil, then generously sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance its natural flavors.
  3. Position the squash halves face-down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing the flesh to caramelize and soften during roasting.
  4. Transfer the baking sheet to a preheated oven and roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, checking periodically to ensure the squash reaches a fork-tender consistency without becoming mushy.
  5. While the squash roasts, prepare the rice mixture by combining cooked rice with shredded cheese, minced herbs, and sautéed aromatics to create a rich, flavorful stuffing.
  6. Once the squash has reached optimal tenderness, carefully remove it from the oven and flip the halves cut-side up, creating a natural bowl for the rice mixture.
  7. Generously fill each squash half with the prepared cheesy rice stuffing, ensuring an even distribution and slightly mounding the filling.
  8. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the top of the filling to develop a golden, crispy texture.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed squash rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set before serving.

Notes

  • Optimize roasting by selecting squash with smooth, unblemished skin for even cooking and better texture.
  • Drizzle olive oil generously to prevent drying and enhance caramelization of the squash’s natural sugars.
  • Consider using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking rice for deeper flavor infusion into the stuffing.
  • Swap cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that maintains creamy, rich taste profile while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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