Acorn squash with sweet spicy sausage
Acorn squash with sweet and spicy sausage combines roasted squash with a glossy, sweet sausage filling. This hearty autumn dish balances sweetness from brown sugar with the savoury notes of Vienna sausage.
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
2 squash2 tbsp olive oil
1.50 lb vienna sausage
1 cup brown sugar
Acorn squash with sweet and spicy sausage is a delectable and comforting dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of brown sugar with the savory and spicy notes of Vienna sausage. This hearty recipe is perfect for autumn and winter, delivering a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and delicious.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the squash thoroughly under running water.
- Cut each squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a spoon.
- Use a sharp knife to score the flesh of each squash half in a crisscross pattern. This will help the flavors to penetrate better.
- Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Brush the flesh with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, evenly distributing it among all the halves.
- Sprinkle some salt and pepper for additional flavor (optional).
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is baking, slice the Vienna sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sausage pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned and slightly crispy, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of brown sugar evenly over the sausage pieces in the skillet.
- Stir the mixture continuously until the brown sugar melts and coats the sausage pieces uniformly, creating a sweet and spicy glaze. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully remove the roasted acorn squash from the oven.
- Spoon the sweet spicy sausage mixture into the cavity of each squash half, evenly distributing the filling.
- Return the filled squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until everything is heated through and slightly caramelized on top.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the squash cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve each acorn squash half as a main dish, or cut into smaller portions for a side dish. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors!
Acorn squash with sweet and spicy sausage is a delightful combination that brings out the best of both sweet and savory flavors. The caramelized brown sugar complements the juicy Vienna sausage, while the tender acorn squash adds a nutritious touch. Enjoy this comforting dish as a main course, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Acorn squash with sweet spicy sausage FAQ:
Bake the acorn squash for 40-45 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
The acorn squash is done when the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Check during the last few minutes of baking time.
Yes, you can substitute Vienna sausage with other types of cooked sausage such as Italian sausage or chicken sausage for different flavors and spice levels.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
You can use any variety of acorn squash, but choose ones that are firm and free from blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Choose firm and heavy acorn squashes without blemishes or soft spots for the best results.
- Roasting the squash before adding the sausage and brown sugar mixture ensures a tender and caramelized texture.
- For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the squash before roasting.
- If you prefer a milder sausage, you can substitute the Vienna sausage with a less spicy variety.
- Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the squash halves before baking to enhance the richness and prevent them from drying out.
- Consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and flavor.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 590kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 44g
Fat 40g
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