Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash

Apple sausage stuffed butternut squash is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines sweet roasted squash, savory sausage, tart apples, and aromatic herbs. It’s a cozy, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for fall dinners, holidays, or whenever you want something wholesome and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A balanced sweet-and-savory flavor combo everyone loves
• Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for different diets
• A complete meal with protein, veggies, and fruit in every bite
• Impressive enough for holiday tables, yet simple enough for weeknights
• Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Pork or chicken sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• Apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• Onion, diced
• Celery, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs (sage, thyme, or rosemary)
• Optional: grated parmesan or shredded cheese for topping

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut side down and roast for about 35–45 minutes, until tender.
3. While the squash roasts, cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
4. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened. Stir in the diced apple and fresh herbs; cook for 3–5 minutes more.
5. Remove squash from the oven and carefully scoop out some flesh to make room for the stuffing (optional). Chop and add the scooped squash into the sausage mixture.
6. Flip the squash halves cut side up. Spoon the filling evenly into each half. Sprinkle with cheese if using.
7. Return to oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until hot and lightly golden. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Makes 2–4 servings (1 stuffed half per person or slice and serve)
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 45–60 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Add cooked wild rice or quinoa to the stuffing for extra texture.
• Make it vegetarian by swapping sausage for sautéed mushrooms and chickpeas.
• Drizzle with a touch of maple syrup or balsamic glaze before serving.
• Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
• The stuffing can be made ahead and stored separately if you prefer.

FAQs

What kind of sausage is best for this recipe?

Any mild or spicy pork, chicken, or turkey sausage works well—use your favorite!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the squash and make the stuffing up to 2 days ahead. Stuff and bake when ready to serve.

Do I have to scoop out extra squash flesh?

No—it just makes more room for stuffing. You can leave it as is for more squash in each bite.

What apples are best for stuffing?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the flavors nicely.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely—replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a grain-based filling.

How do I keep the squash from tipping over?

Trim a small slice off the bottom of each half to create a flat base.

What should I serve with stuffed butternut squash?

It’s great on its own, but a simple salad or crusty bread pairs well.

Can I freeze stuffed butternut squash?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze the cooked stuffing separately for up to 3 months.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Just skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes—it’s naturally balanced with protein, veggies, and healthy carbs. Use lean sausage or turkey for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Apple sausage stuffed butternut squash is a cozy, flavorful dish that captures the best of fall flavors in one beautiful package. It’s easy to customize, great for meal prep, and sure to impress family and friends. Give this recipe a try for your next comforting dinner!

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