Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash

Name: Valentine Dinner Stuffed Acorn Squash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 acorn squashes; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love creating meals that not only look stunning but also taste divine, especially for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. This stuffed acorn squash recipe has become a go-to in our house, combining sweet and savory flavors that make it a memorable dish. The natural sweetness of the squash paired with a savory stuffing filled with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts elevates this dish into something truly special. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:17:34.718Z

When I first made this stuffed acorn squash, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The sweetness of the roasted squash enhances the nutty quinoa and tart cranberries, creating a wonderful balance that surprises my taste buds every time. I like to add a hint of cinnamon for warmth, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.

One tip I learned along the way is to roast the acorn squash cut side down for the first half of the cooking time. This method ensures that the squash steams itself, resulting in a tender texture that really holds up to the hearty stuffing I’ve created. Trust me; it makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A beautiful centerpiece that impresses your dinner guests
Delicious flavor harmony between sweet and savory ingredients
Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for a healthy romantic meal

Preparing the Acorn Squash

When selecting acorn squashes, look for ones that are firm to the touch with a deep green color, as these are typically ripe and flavorful. If you're unsure about their ripeness, gently press the skin; it should feel solid without any soft spots. Cut the squashes evenly so they roast beautifully, and remember to scoop out the seeds carefully to avoid any bitter flavor from them.

Roasting the acorn squash cut side down not only helps the flesh steam and cook faster but also results in a delightful caramelization. This adds a natural sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of the squash. After 25 minutes, you should see slightly browned edges and a tender texture, making it easier to stuff.

Cooking the Quinoa Perfectly

Quinoa’s high protein content makes it an excellent base for the stuffing in this recipe. Rinsing the quinoa is essential; it removes saponins that can impart a bitter taste. Be sure to use a fine-mesh sieve for this step. After bringing the vegetable broth to a boil, reduce the heat and cover it tightly with a lid. This traps steam, allowing the quinoa to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.

Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork before adding the other filling ingredients. This helps to separate the grains and create a light, airy texture. If you're curious about adding extra flavors, consider swapping some of the vegetable broth for apple juice or adding a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Stuffing and Baking Tips

While stuffing the squash, make sure to press the quinoa mixture down slightly; this will help it hold together and prevent it from falling out as you serve. If you have leftovers after stuffing, feel free to bake them alongside the squash for a quick additional side dish. The key to ensuring even baking for the stuffed squash is to keep them spaced apart on the baking sheet, allowing hot air to circulate evenly.

For added texture and flavor, consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This not only livens up the presentation but also adds a burst of freshness to the rich, hearty stuffing. If you're looking for a vegan option, choose vegetable broth and plant-based butter if you decide to add extra richness to the quinoa filling.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Acorn Squash

2 acorn squashes
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Feel free to customize the stuffing ingredients to your liking!

Instructions

Prepare the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.

Cook the Quinoa

While the squash roasts, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well.

Stuff the Squash

Once the squash is tender and roasted, remove them from the oven and flip them over. Fill each half with the quinoa mixture generously.

Bake Again

Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes to heat everything through.

Serve warm and enjoy your romantic meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some fresh herbs like parsley or sage into your stuffing. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or an herbal tea.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stuffed acorn squash dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for hectic evenings or special occasions. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, simply stuff the squash and bake as instructed. This approach not only saves time but also allows the flavors of the filling to meld together beautifully overnight.

If you have leftovers, please store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through; this keeps the squash skin nice and tender while avoiding a soggy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a romantic dinner, serve the stuffed acorn squash alongside a light green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts to create a delightful balance on the plate. Lightly drizzling balsamic glaze over the squash just before serving adds a touch of acidity that complements the sweetness of the acorn and the cranberries beautifully.

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a fruity rosé to enhance the flavors of your meal. The refreshing notes of the wine can cut through the richness of the stuffing and make for a well-rounded dining experience, perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup and use vegetable broth.

→ How long does it take to prepare?

The total time required is about 65 minutes, including prep and cooking.

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Brown rice or couscous would work well in this recipe too.

→ What else can I add to the stuffing?

Feel free to include cooked vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition.