Meat stuffed Honeynut squash

  • Loriana Shea
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
image_pdfimage_print

Meat stuffed honeynut squash

This post may contain affiliate links, that help support this blog. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission—at no cost to you. For more information read my disclosure policy.

This stuffed Honeynut squash with ground beef, rice, and cheese is an easy, hearty fall dinner that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. The naturally sweet, tender squash pairs perfectly with savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Best of all, Honeynut squash is the perfect size for stuffing, making this recipe simple to prepare and serve.

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is a Honeynut squash? Although it looks like a miniature butternut squash, it’s actually its own variety. Developed by crossing butternut and buttercup squash varieties, Honeynut squash has a naturally sweet flavor and a tender texture that make it ideal for roasting and stuffing.

I first started seeing Honeynut squash at Trader Joe’s a few years ago, especially during the fall season. Before that, I had mostly spotted them at farmers markets. Their small size makes them perfect for individual servings, and their sweet, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with a savory ground beef and rice filling. If you’re looking for a cozy fall dinner that’s a little different from the usual stuffed peppers or casseroles, this stuffed Honey nut squash is one to try.

Good to Know: Stuffed Honey nut Squash

Change the protein: I thought a hearty, savory filling would pair perfectly with the natural sweetness of Honey nut squash, and ground beef does just that. If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily substitute mild or spicy Italian sausage. Ground turkey or chicken would also work well.

Switch up the rice: Rice gives the filling a hearty texture, but you can substitute orzo pasta for a fun twist. If you enjoy cooking with different pasta shapes, keep a box of orzo in your pantry for soups, salads, and easy one-pan meals.

Make it vegetarian: Simply leave out the meat and add your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or finely diced bell peppers would all work well with the sweet roasted squash and rice. You can also add extra cheese for a more filling vegetarian meal.

Make ahead: This stuffed Honey nut squash is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble and bake the squash. You can also fully cook the stuffed squash ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Storage: Store leftover stuffed Honey nut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Cover the squash while reheating to help prevent the filling from drying out.

Freezing: This recipe is freezer-friendly. Let the cooked stuffed squash cool completely, then wrap each portion tightly or store it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating until hot throughout.

Make It a Meal

If you love cozy, comforting Italian-inspired dinners, try some of my other favorites, like Italian Roasted Sausage, Peppers and Potatoes, Italian Spezzatino Beef Stew, or Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup They’re all great options when you’re craving a hearty homemade meal.

You can also browse my other Italian dinner recipes for more easy meals to make for your family.

If you make this stuffed Honeynut squash, please leave me a comment and let me know how you liked it! I love hearing from you, and your feedback helps other readers, too.

 

Meat stuffed honey nut squash

This meat-stuffed Honey nut squash is a delicious fall dinner filled with savory ground beef, rice, and melted cheese. The naturally sweet, tender roasted squash pairs perfectly with the hearty filling, making this an easy, comforting meal for weeknights or a cozy autumn dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 honey nut squash
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 4 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 lb. lean ground beef
  • 2 cups marinara sauce divided
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the squash: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Wash and dry the Honeynut squash, then cut each squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, and season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
  • Make the meat filling: Meanwhile, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until softened and just beginning to brown. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Simmer the sauce: Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce and ½ cup of chicken stock. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of grated Parmesan cheese, the chopped Italian parsley, and the cooked rice until everything is well combined.
  • Stuff the squash: Remove the partially roasted squash from the oven. Divide the meat and rice filling evenly among the squash halves, spooning it into the hollowed centers.
  • Add the topping and bake: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed squash and sprinkle with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese. Return the squash to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown and the squash is tender.
  • Garnish and serve: Finish with freshly chopped Italian parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Choose Honey nut squash that feels firm and has no soft spots. If the squash halves are particularly small, check them early to prevent overcooking. For extra flavor, season the ground beef filling with Italian herbs and freshly grated Parmesan.

More to Explore

Back To Top
Search