Stuffed Butternut Squash with Savory Mince

If you’re looking for a healthy comfort food recipe that feels indulgent but still fits into a balanced lifestyle, Stuffed Butternut Squash with Savory Mince is a perfect choice. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a rich, deeply seasoned minced meat filling, making it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy fall or winter gathering.

Butternut squash is a favorite ingredient in gluten-free recipes, clean eating meal plans, and low-processed home cooking thanks to its high fiber content, vitamins A and C, and naturally creamy texture. When paired with savory mince—whether beef, lamb, turkey, or plant-based—you get a filling, protein-rich meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. It works as a weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish turned main, or a make-ahead meal prep option for busy schedules.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Butternut Squash:

2 medium butternut squash, halved lengthwise
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Savory Mince Filling:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
500 g (1 lb) minced meat (beef, lamb, turkey, or chicken)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
¼ cup beef or vegetable stock
½ cup diced tomatoes (optional for moisture)

Optional Toppings:

Grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Greek yogurt or sour cream

Instructions

1. Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Scoop out the seeds from the squash halves and discard or save for roasting later. Brush the flesh generously with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.

Place the squash cut-side down on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and set aside.

2. Prepare the Savory Mince

While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the minced meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season with smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (if using), and stock. Let the mixture simmer for 8–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and excess liquid to reduce. The filling should be rich and slightly saucy, not watery.

3. Stuff and Bake

Flip the roasted squash halves cut-side up. Gently scoop out a little of the flesh to create a well, then mix that scooped squash into the mince for extra flavor and nutrition.

Spoon the savory mince mixture generously into each squash half. Top with grated cheese if desired.

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your stuffed butternut squash hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete healthy dinner.

This dish also works well for:

Meal prep lunches
Low-carb dinner ideas (especially without cheese)
Gluten-free family meals
High-protein comfort food recipes

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through
Freeze the mince filling separately for up to 2 months

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Savory Mince