This tasty stuffed delicata squash is filled with venison, goji berries, and spinach, creating a warm and filling meal. It’s healthy and colorful, perfect for a cozy dinner!
When I make this, I can’t help but smile at how pretty the squash looks on my plate. Plus, who doesn’t love the sweet blend of goji berries with savory meat? It’s a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Delicata Squash: This squash has a sweet, nutty flavor and is perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find it, look for acorn or butternut squash as substitutes. Both can easily be cut and filled, thanks to their similar shape.
Ground Venison: Venison has a rich taste that pairs well with this dish. If it’s not available, you might use ground turkey or beef instead. Just remember, the flavor will slightly change, but they’ll still work great!
Goji Berries: These add a sweet-tart flavor and nutritional boost. If they’re hard to find, dried cranberries or raisins can substitute, providing similar sweetness and texture without missing out on that fruity element.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is essential for its mild taste. Kale or Swiss chard can work well as alternatives, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time to soften.
Cheese: Mozzarella is optional but adds creaminess. Feel free to swap it for cheddar or goat cheese for a twist. For a dairy-free option, try a nut-based cheese or simply skip it.
How Do I Get The Squash Ready for Stuffing?
Preparing your delicata squash correctly is crucial. Start by cutting it in half lengthwise. This helps create the perfect bowl for your filling. Remember to scoop out the seeds with a spoon, making sure to clear out any stringy fibers.
- Wash the squash well to remove dirt.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each squash in half through the middle. Always cut away from yourself to stay safe.
- Once halved, a spoon or melon baller works great to scoop out any seeds and fibers.
- Finish by drizzling the cut sides with olive oil and season well before roasting!
Try roasting them cut side down to get a beautifully caramelized side. This will add more flavor to your dish!
Stuffed Delicata Squash with Venison, Goji Berries & Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 medium delicata squashes
- 1 lb ground venison
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/3 cup dried goji berries
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or mild cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40 minutes of cooking time, totaling approximately 55 minutes. You’ll spend a little time preparing the squash and cooking the flavorful filling, making this a great dish for a wholesome meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough when we’re ready to roast the squash!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Wash the delicata squashes under running water and then cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits, creating hollow “boats” that will hold your filling. Easy peasy!
3. Roast the Squash:
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the insides of the squash halves. Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor. Place the squashes cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. You want them to be soft but still hold their shape!
4. Cook the Filling:
While the squash roasts, heat the other 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Add the Venison:
Now, add the minced garlic and ground venison to the skillet. Cook it all together, breaking the meat apart with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. You want everything nice and browned!
6. Season the Filling:
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for another minute to really bring out their flavors!
7. Add Spinach and Berries:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach and cook briefly until it wilts, about 2 minutes. This adds a great color and nutrition! Once wilted, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the dried goji berries and, if you’d like, the shredded cheese. Give everything a good mix!
8. Stuff the Squash:
Carefully remove the roasted squash from the oven and flip them cut side up. Now, generously fill each squash half with the yummy venison, spinach, and goji berry mixture. They should look colorful and delicious!
9. Final Bake:
Return the stuffed squashes to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes. This way, the filling warms through, and if you added cheese, it will melt and get slightly golden on top.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take them out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs of your choice for a pop of color and flavor. Now, enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish of stuffed delicata squash!
Enjoy this flavorful, nutrient-packed stuffed delicata squash dish that perfectly combines savory venison, earthy spinach, and sweet, tangy goji berries!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you can’t find ground venison, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or beef. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but will work well with the other ingredients!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground venison with a plant-based protein option, such as cooked quinoa, lentils, or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and delicious stuffing!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed delicata squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover with foil to keep the squash moist!
Can I Freeze the Stuffed Squash?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed squashes before or after they are baked. If freezing before baking, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If they’ve already been baked, reheat directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.