Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage, Spinach, Pecans, and Cranberries

There’s something magical about fall evenings when the oven is warm, the kitchen smells of roasted vegetables, and dinner feels like a comforting hug. This Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage, Spinach, Pecans, and Cranberries is the perfect example of fall comfort food—cozy, hearty, and loaded with flavor.

The sweet roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with savory Italian sausage, earthy spinach, crunchy pecans, and a pop of tart cranberries. It’s a festive dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage

• It’s a complete meal in one dish—protein, veggies, and healthy fats.
• The flavors are balanced—sweet, savory, nutty, and slightly tangy.
• It works perfectly as a holiday side dish or a cozy weeknight dinner.
• Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for different diets.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium butternut squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground sage
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino (optional, for topping)

Directions:

• Prepare the squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the cut sides of the butternut squash with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 40–45 minutes, until tender.
• Cook the sausage: While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
• Add aromatics & spinach: Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Add spinach and cook until just wilted.

• Mix the filling: Remove from heat and stir in pecans, cranberries, thyme, and sage. Taste and adjust seasoning.
• Stuff the squash: Flip the roasted butternut halves, gently scoop a little flesh to create space, and mix it into the sausage filling. Spoon the mixture into each half.
• Bake again: Top with cheese if using, return to the oven, and bake 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

How to Serve Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage

This stuffed butternut squash is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. If you’re enjoying it on a chilly weeknight, simply slice one half onto each plate, pair it with a crisp green salad, and maybe drizzle on a balsamic glaze for a touch of brightness. The sausage and spinach filling makes it hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish, while the cranberries and pecans add those festive holiday vibes.

For special gatherings, think of it as the star of your holiday table. It pairs beautifully with classic roasts—like chicken, turkey, or lamb—and looks absolutely stunning on a platter surrounded by fresh herbs or extra cranberries for garnish. If you’re feeding a crowd, you can slice each stuffed squash half into thick wedges, allowing guests to take their own portion. Don’t forget the bread basket! A warm loaf of crusty sourdough or French bread is the perfect companion to soak up every last bit of the savory-sweet filling.

How to Store Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage

One of the best things about this dish is that it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

• In the refrigerator: Once cooled, store any leftover stuffed squash halves in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the filling moist and prevents the squash from becoming mushy.
• In the freezer: If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes well too. Wrap each stuffed half securely in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F until heated all the way through.

Tips to Make Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage

This dish is simple enough, but a few extra touches can make it absolutely show-stopping.

• Roast in advance: Save yourself time on busy weeknights or holidays by roasting the butternut squash a day ahead. Just reheat briefly before stuffing—it will taste just as fresh.
• Lighten it up: If you want a leaner version, swap the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken. For even more nutrition, add quinoa or brown rice to the filling to stretch it further.
• Boost the flavor: Don’t be shy with herbs and spices. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg all bring out the cozy flavors of the squash.
• Cheese magic: A sprinkle of goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese adds creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of the cranberries and squash.
• Make it pretty: Before serving, garnish with extra chopped pecans, a drizzle of olive oil, or even pomegranate seeds for a festive pop of color.

Variations

The beauty of stuffed butternut squash is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to change it up depending on your mood or the occasion:

• Vegetarian Delight: Leave out the sausage and bulk up the filling with cooked quinoa, lentils, or chickpeas. It’s still hearty, full of protein, and satisfying enough for a meatless main.

• Sweet & Savory Twist: Add diced apples or pears to the filling for a touch of sweetness that blends perfectly with the earthy squash. A little cinnamon or allspice sprinkled in can make it taste extra cozy.
• Spicy Version: If you like heat, choose hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the filling. A drizzle of hot honey before serving can also take it to the next level.
• Cheesy Bake: Mix shredded mozzarella or fontina into the filling before baking, so it melts into a gooey, savory base that pairs beautifully with the crunchy pecans.
• Mini Servings: Instead of large halves, use small acorn squash or mini butternuts to make individual servings. They’re adorable and perfect for dinner parties.

FAQs About Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage

More Ideas

• Looking for inspiration? Try this comforting Chicken Pot Pie for another cozy meal idea.
• Don’t miss our Best Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar Topping—a fall classic perfect for the holidays.
• Discover great ideas like this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole to round out your autumn table.

Final Thoughts About Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage

This Stuffed Butternut Squash with Italian Sausage, Spinach, Pecans, and Cranberries is the definition of comfort food that feels wholesome and festive. Whether you serve it as a centerpiece for a fall dinner or as part of a holiday spread, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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