Delicious Sausage and Pear Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

This Sausage and Pear Stuffed Acorn Squash is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the sweetness of roasted acorn squash with savory sausage and tender pears. The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delicious meal option for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can create a wholesome and hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 medium acorn squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 pears, peeled, cored, and diced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Rub the oil and seasoning evenly over the cut surfaces.
3. Bake the squash in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the squash is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, onion, garlic, and thyme leaves. Cook, breaking up the sausage into small crumbles, until the sausage is browned and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the diced pears to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until slightly softened.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
7. Spoon the sausage and pear mixture into the hollowed-out areas of the baked acorn squash halves. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Enjoy your delicious Sausage and Pear Stuffed Acorn Squash!

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