a stuffed acorn squash half filled with a mixture of ground beef, black beans, and diced green peppers, topped with melted cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves

Ground Turkey and Black Bean Stuffed Acorn Squash

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This nutritious stuffed acorn squash recipe combines ground turkey, black beans, and fresh spinach for a wholesome meal. It’s a perfect option for a healthy dinner, packed with protein and fiber.

The preparation is simple, and the dish can be served as a main course or a side. The natural sweetness of the acorn squash pairs beautifully with the savory filling.

Healthy Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

This recipe features acorn squash halved and roasted until tender, then filled with a mixture of sautéed ground turkey, black beans, and fresh spinach. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

  • 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Squash: Place the acorn squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
  3. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Add Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Mix in Beans and Spinach: Stir in the black beans, chopped spinach, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Stuff the Squash: Remove the squash from the oven and carefully flip them cut-side up. Fill each half with the turkey and bean mixture, pressing down gently.
  7. Optional Cheese: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the stuffed squash.
  8. Final Bake: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted.
  9. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g

This recipe is part of my 39 Easy Healthy Family Dinner Ideas. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!

Jeff Campbell
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