Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash

Name: Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 medium acorn squashes; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Celebration Seasonal Food Collection

I absolutely love making this Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash! It's the perfect dish to impress your special someone or to enjoy a cozy meal on a chilly evening. The sweet and nutty flavor of the acorn squash pairs beautifully with a savory stuffing filled with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts. Not only is this dish delicious, but it also brings a lovely pop of color to the table, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. Let's get cooking!

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:49:34.896Z

When I first tried stuffed acorn squash, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create something so satisfying. I decided to add quinoa and cranberries for extra texture and flavor, and it truly elevated the dish! The sweetness of the squash combined with the tartness of the cranberries creates a harmony of flavors that never fails to impress.

As I perfected the recipe, I realized the key is to roast the acorn squash until it's tender, ensuring that every bite is sweet and soft. Using a combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg really brings out the natural flavor of the squash. I can't wait to share this delightful dish with you!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        A beautiful, festive presentation that’s perfect for romantic dinners
Nutritious and packed with flavor, making every bite a delight
Easily customizable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences

      

The Versatility of Acorn Squash

Acorn squash is a fantastic vehicle for flavors, and this recipe highlights its natural sweetness beautifully. The roasting process enhances its caramelized notes, while the quinoa stuffing introduces a savory element that balances the sweetness. If you're looking to incorporate even more flavors, consider adding spices such as cumin or smoked paprika to the stuffing mixture. This will complement the nuts and cranberries, creating a dish that is layered in both taste and texture.

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you have nutritional restrictions or simply want to experiment, you can swap out ingredients with relative ease. For instance, if you’re gluten-free, substitute quinoa with rice or millet. Vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can replace the walnuts for those avoiding nuts, while still providing a hearty texture to the filling.

Mastering the Stuffing Technique

When combining ingredients for the stuffing, ensure that everything is well incorporated. The goal is to achieve a uniform mixture that will ensure each bite is flavored equally. After adding cooked quinoa to the sautéed aromatics, mix thoroughly to allow the warmth of the quinoa to meld with the fragrant onion and garlic. I recommend letting the filling cool slightly before stuffing the squash; this helps prevent the squash from overcooking while finishing in the oven.

Packing the stuffing shouldn't be a rushed process. Make sure to fill each squash half generously without overstuffing, as this can cause spillage during the second bake. The ideal texture should be somewhat moist—if it feels too dry, a splash of vegetable broth can help. Baking the stuffed squash for an additional 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to marry and provides a comforting warmth that makes each serving even more inviting.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Acorn Squash

2 medium acorn squashes
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Acorn Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.

Cook the Quinoa

While the squash is roasting, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to combine and season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Squash

Once the acorn squashes are done baking, remove them from the oven. Carefully spoon the quinoa mixture into each squash half, packing it gently. Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the quinoa with brown rice or farro for different textures. You can also add cooked protein such as chicken or sausage to make it even heartier.

Make-Ahead Tips

This stuffed acorn squash can be prepared ahead of time, which makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions. You can prep the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply fill the squash halves and follow the baking instructions as stated. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in an even more delicious meal.

If you find yourself with leftovers, the stuffed squashes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes will help retain their texture and flavor. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it might make the squash soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed acorn squashes are visually stunning and can be served as a showstopper on your dinner table. Pair them with a light salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the squash. This contrast in flavors brightens the dish and enhances the overall dining experience. If you're feeling festive, a simple glass of sparkling wine could also complement the meal perfectly.

For an added touch, consider serving the stuffed acorn squash with a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the top just before serving. This not only elevates the presentation but also offers a tangy sweetness that contrasts delightfully with the stuffing. For those seeking more protein, a side of grilled chicken or sautéed greens could make this meal even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed squash a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can customize the filling using ingredients like spinach, feta cheese, or different nuts and seeds.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian friendly?

Absolutely! This dish is completely vegetarian and packed with nutritious ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.