Tex-Mex Ground Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash Recipe

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Tex-Mex ground turkey stuffed acorn squash is a wholesome and flavorful dish. Roasted acorn squash is filled with savory, spicy ground turkey, combining the comforting flavors of fall with the bold zestiness of Tex-Mex. It’s the perfect recipe with easy steps for a delicious weeknight dinner.

a picture of stuffed acorn squash on a plate

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Each bite of this dish offers a tast of fall flavors and textures, making it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a show-stopping addition to your seasonal menu.

If you like stuffed squash, try our stuffed zucchini with ground beef recipe!

🤍Why you will love this recipe

Flavor! The Tex-Mex flavors perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the roasted acorn squash, resulting in a delicious fusion of flavors.
Healthy! This recipe provides a balanced meal full of wholesome ingredients.
Versatile! It’s a versatile recipe, and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

a picture of the ingredients needed for acorn squash

Here is what you will need

This is an overview of the ingredients and steps to make this easy stuffed acorn squash recipe; scroll down for a printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions.

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🛒Ingredients

Lean Ground Turkey
Acorn Squash
Black Beans
Onion
Garlic
Chili Powder
Ground Cumin
Diced tomatoes
Jalapeno Pepper
Cheddar Cheese
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil

🥄Equipment

Baking Sheet
Large Skillet
Parchment Paper (optional)
Sharp Knife

How to make Tex-Mex Ground Turkey Stuffed Acorn Squash

Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the squash and cut it in half vertically and scoop out the seeds from the squash and set them aside. Chop the garlic, onion, peppers and tomatoes and set them aside. Measure the spices and shred the cheese.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees f and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

STEP 1: Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil.

STEP 2: Place the halves of squash cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

a picture of acorn squash on a baking sheet

baked butternut squash halves on a baking sheet

STEP 3: Bake for approximately 40 minutes. The flesh should be fork tender when pierced. Remove from the oven.

STEP 4: While the squash is baking, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook in the skillet until almost cooked through. Add the onion and garlic and cook for a few more minutes.

ground turkey and onions cooking in a skillet

STEP 5. Reduce to medium heat and add the spices, tomatoes and beans. Cook for 10 minutes longer.

STEP 6: Add the turkey mixture to the roasted squash bowls and top them with shredded cheese. Bake until cheese melts.

stuffed acorn squash on a tray ready for the oven

Ingredient notes and substitutions

The complete list of ingredients to make this recipe is above. Below are notes about some of the ingredients, along with ideas for substitutes.

Acorn Squash – Acorn squash works in this recipe, because they are small in size and one half is just enough for one serving. It can be replaced with any winter squash, such as butternut squash, honeynut squash or delicata squash.

Ground Turkey – Is a lean and healthy alternative and can be replaced with ground chicken, ground beef or ground pork.

Diced Tomatoes – Fresh or canned diced tomatoes will work. If you choose to use canned tomatoes, look for low sodium for the best results.

Jalapeno Pepper – This adds a spicy kick and can be left out for a milder version of stuffed acorn squash.

an overhead shot of stuffed squash on a plate with a fork

How to make ground turkey stuffed acorn squash ahead of time

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. All you have to do is prepare the squash and filling, stuff the squash, and refrigerate it without adding cheese.

When you’re ready to eat, place the squash in an oven-proof dish, cover it, and bake it at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. After that, remove the cover, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for 10 more minutes.

What to serve with Turkey stuffed acorn squash

Serve stuffed acorn squash with your favorite taco toppings such as guacamole, salsa, pico de Gallo or sour cream. Add a fresh chopped salad, or roasted brusels sprouts to make a complete meal.

Recipe variations

a picture of acorn squash on a white plate

Grains and Turkey – Add some cooked brown rice, wild rice or quinoa to the meat filling for added texture.

Vegetarian – Substitute ground turkey with black beans or a combination of black beans and quinoa.

Veggies – Add any combination of diced bell pepper, zucchini, or cauliflower rice to the meat mixture.

💡Tips

Try to select squash that are similar in size, which will help to cook them uniformly.
Don’t overstuff the squash halves. If you have leftover turkey filling, save it for another meal, such as adding it to tacos, a salad or wrap.
To keep the squash cups stable, use a sharp knife to slice off a small piece from the bottom of each half.

Can you freeze Tex-Mex stuffed acorn squash?

Yes. Place the cooled squash halves in an airtight container or freezer bag or wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I prevent the squash from becoming too soft and collapsing?

Do not overcook the squash. The squash is done when it feels tender when pierced with a fork, it should not feel soft.