Halved roasted acorn squash filled with a minced meat and vegetable mixture on a white plate, with a bottle of Kikkoman soy sauce and a fork nearby.

Ground Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash

Serves 4
Total Time 1 hour, 2 minutes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 47 minutes

About

Indulge in a cozy and delicious meal with this savory Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash. Roasted to perfection, the acorn squash serves as a sweet and tender base for the flavorful filling of seasoned ground turkey, sautéed vegetables, and herbs. The subtle sweetness of the squash perfectly balances the savory, protein-packed filling, which is enhanced by a touch of Kikkoman® Soy Sauce. Finished with melted gruyere cheese, this dish delivers a satisfying combination of flavors that is both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a special fall dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this stuffed acorn squash with ground turkey is an easy and delicious option. The mix of carrots, celery, and onions adds texture and depth to the filling, while the sage and thyme bring out a comforting, autumnal flavor. The ground turkey keeps it light but still rich in flavor, making it a great option for those looking for a balanced meal. This recipe is not only perfect for a cozy night in but can also be easily customized. If you're looking to experiment, you could incorporate different cheeses or even switch up the filling by adding grains like quinoa or wild rice. For an extra savory twist, try serving this turkey stuffed acorn squash with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. Whether you’re familiar with ground turkey stuffed acorn squash or trying it for the first time, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the season's produce with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Tips and Tricks
  • When roasting the squash, cut a thin slice off the bottom of each half to keep them flat on the baking sheet. This makes stuffing easier and ensures even cooking.
  • For a deeper flavor, add a splash of Kikkoman® Soy Sauce to the vegetables while sautéing to enhance the savory profile.
  • If you're meal prepping, make the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you're ready, just roast the squash and assemble for an easy, quick dinner.

Ingredients

2 acorn squash
1 tablespoon avocado oil 
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter 
½ cup sweet onion, chopped
½ cup carrot, chopped
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ pound ground turkey 
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon dried thyme 
¼ teaspoon black pepper 
2 tablespoons Kikkoman ® Soy Sauce
1 cup gruyere cheese, grated 

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.  Cut the very ends off of acorn squash so they are flat. Cut in half and scoop out seeds and stringy flesh.  
  2. Place squash on baking sheet, cut side up and brush with avocado oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 40 minutes.  
  3. While squash bakes, heat butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Add onion, carrots and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes. Add ground turkey and break up with a spatula. Season with garlic, sage, thyme, black pepper and soy sauce. Cook 5 minutes longer. 
  4. Spoon ground turkey and vegetable mixture into acorn squash halves. Top with shredded cheese. Bake for 15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and browned. 
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