Mushroom Stuffed Squash Bowls

Stuffed squash has long been a cozy harvest favorite in American kitchens, turning roasted acorn halves into edible bowls. This version fills them with savory cremini mushrooms, quinoa, cranberries, and walnuts for a festive Halloween dinner.

Serves 4 · 20 min prep · 50 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 360 cal
• 12g protein
• 42g carbs
• 18g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 2 medium acorn squash
• 3 tbsp, divided olive oil
• 1 tsp, divided salt
• 1/2 tsp, divided black pepper
• 12 oz, chopped cremini mushrooms
• 1 large, minced shallot
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
2. 2Brush the cut sides and cavities generously with olive oil. Season with half the salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet.
3. 3Roast the squash at 400°F for 30 to 35 minutes until the flesh is fork-tender and the edges begin to caramelize and turn golden.
4. 4While the squash roasts, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release liquid and turn deep golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes.
5. 5Add the minced shallot and cook 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
6. 6Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, half the Parmesan, remaining salt and pepper, and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. 7Flip the roasted squash halves cut-side up. Spoon the mushroom-quinoa filling generously into each cavity, mounding it slightly.
8. 8Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan over the tops. Return to the oven and bake 8 to 10 minutes more until the cheese melts and the filling is heated through.
9. 9Let the stuffed squash rest 5 minutes. The natural bowl shape makes them easy to serve as individual portions.
10. 10These earthy bowls bring savory balance to the Halloween table and can be prepped ahead, then finished in the oven just before guests arrive.