Name: Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ pound butternut squash; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; Kosher salt (to taste); Ground black pepper (to taste); ½ pound Italian sausage; ½ onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups baby spinach, lightly packed; 1 apple, cored and diced; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage; ½ tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary; ⅓ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened); ¼ cup pecans, roughly chopped

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is bursting with cozy fall flavors, this Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe is an absolute must-try. Roasted to tender perfection, the sweet earthiness of butternut squash creates the perfect vessel for a savory and slightly sweet sausage stuffing tossed with fresh herbs, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans. It’s a warm, satisfying meal that feels special enough for company but is wonderfully simple to prepare for a quiet night at home. Every bite delivers layers of texture and flavor that will have you coming back for seconds without hesitation.

Two halves of roasted butternut squash resting on a white rectangular plate with a white marbled surface underneath. Each squash half is hollowed in the center and filled with three visible layers: the bright orange, smooth roasted squash forms the base layer with a slightly soft texture; on top, a crumbly brown layer of seasoned ground beef is added; the topmost layer consists of small cubes of red and cream-colored apples mixed with wilted dark green spinach leaves and sprinkled pecan halves, adding texture and color contrast. A silver spoon lies beside the squash halves, and a sprig of fresh rosemary is placed near the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each element plays a unique role, from the juicy tang of fresh apple to the fragrant herb blend, making the flavors sing together in perfect harmony.

Butternut squash (2 ½ pounds): The star of the show, its natural sweetness and creamy texture provide a delightful base.
Extra virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps create a lovely roasted crust on the squash.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors without overpowering.
Italian sausage (½ pound): Provides savory, spiced depth and a meaty component to the filling.
Onion (½, diced): Adds subtle sweetness and sharpness that balances the sausage.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses warmth and aromatic richness.
Baby spinach (2 cups, lightly packed): Offers a fresh, tender green element that wilts beautifully in the sauté.
Apple (1, cored and diced): Brings juicy crispness and a touch of sweetness to brighten the filling.
Fresh sage (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Adds a lovely earthy herbaceous note that complements both squash and sausage.
Fresh rosemary (½ tablespoon, finely chopped): Gives a fragrant piney aroma that elevates the dish.
Dried cranberries (⅓ cup, unsweetened): Introduce a chewy tartness that balances the richness.
Pecans (¼ cup, roughly chopped): Provide crunch and nutty warmth to the stuffing.

How to Make Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Slice the Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise using a very sharp knife. If you find the squash tough to cut, try trimming the ends and microwaving it for about 2 minutes; this softens it just enough to make slicing easier and safer. This step gets us ready for that golden roasted base everyone loves.

Step 2: Season and Roast the Squash

Next, scoop out all the seeds with a spoon—don’t skip this, as it frees up space for our delicious filling. Then, lightly brush the cut sides of the squash with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet or dish and roast for 40 to 45 minutes until tender and caramelized. The roasting melds its natural sweetness with a satisfying softness that’s pure comfort food.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

While the squash roasts, heat a sauté pan over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spatula, cooking until browned all over—this builds a crunchy, flavorful base in the filling. Then toss in diced onion, minced garlic, and baby spinach; stir together for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the onion starts to soften. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making it impossible to wait for the final dish!

Step 4: Add Apples, Herbs, Cranberries, and Pecans

Now, stir in the diced apple with fresh sage and rosemary, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes so the apple softens just slightly without losing its bite. Then remove the pan from heat and gently fold in dried cranberries and pecans for a burst of tartness and crunch. This mixture is where the unique character of the Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe truly shines.

Step 5: Hollow Out the Squash and Fill

After the squash halves are done roasting, remove from the oven and flip them over. Using a spoon, scoop out some of the soft flesh to create a cavity for the filling, but be careful to leave enough so the squash maintains its structural integrity and creamy texture. The scooped-out flesh can be mashed later—don’t throw it away! Then stuff each half generously with the sausage-apple mixture, piling it so it looks inviting and abundant.

Step 6: Broil to Finish

Finally, turn your oven’s broiler on high and pop the stuffed squash back in for about 5 minutes. This quick final bake will crisp the top beautifully and allow the flavors to meld even further while providing a golden, slightly caramelized finish that’s utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Serving this Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few more chopped pecans on top adds an inviting pop of color and texture. You can also drizzle a little honey or a splash of balsamic glaze for a hint of brightness and extra depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish stands wonderfully on its own as a hearty meal, but if you want to round out your plate, consider simple sides like a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts. Creamy mashed potatoes or a rustic whole-grain bread also complement the robust flavors without overshadowing the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the stuffed squash halves on a large platter surrounded by roasted root vegetables or fresh herbs. Alternatively, scoop the sausage and apple filling over individual butternut squash rings for a fun, bite-sized starter at a dinner party. The versatility of this Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe lets you tailor it to every occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the apple sausage stuffed butternut squash tightly covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, the flavors will continue to develop and you can easily enjoy a nutritious, comforting meal later.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled stuffed squash halves in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F oven until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave covered on medium heat, but baking helps preserve the texture and ensures the filling heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still provides plenty of flavor. Just be sure to adjust seasoning if your turkey sausage is milder.

What type of apple works best in this recipe?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and add a lovely balance of sweetness and acidity to the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your sausage if you’re buying pre-packaged.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely! You can make the sausage and apple filling a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and then stuff the squash right before baking for a time-saving dinner.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?

Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount as they’re more concentrated—about one-third of the fresh quantity should do the trick.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe truly captures the essence of cozy, wholesome cooking in every bite. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with your favorite people or treating yourself to a nourishing meal. The combination of savory sausage, sweet apple, and tender squash makes it a standout fall favorite you’ll want to revisit again and again. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen!