🎃 Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach & Bacon
📝 Description
This dish features tender roasted butternut squash halves filled with a rich mixture of sautéed spinach, crispy bacon, and tangy feta cheese. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors—great as a hearty main or an impressive side.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, halved lengthwise & seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper
For the filling:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Optional add-ins:
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- Dried cranberries for a sweet touch
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Roast the Squash
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Brush squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place cut-side down on a baking tray and roast for 30–40 minutes until tender.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a pan, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in bacon, feta, cream cheese (if using), and chili flakes.
3. Stuff the Squash
- Flip roasted squash cut-side up.
- Lightly scoop or fluff the inside flesh to make space.
- Fill generously with the spinach-bacon mixture.
4. Final Bake
- Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
5. Serve
- Garnish with nuts, herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.
✨ Tips for Best Flavor
- Roast squash until caramelized for natural sweetness
- Use good-quality feta for a creamy, tangy bite
- Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for contrast
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Skip bacon and add mushrooms or chickpeas for texture and protein.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes—roast squash and prepare filling in advance, then assemble and bake before serving.
Q: Is it low-carb?
Moderately—lower than many starch-heavy dishes but still naturally sweet.
Q: What can I serve with it?
Pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad.
