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Creamy Sausage Stuffed Delicata Squash Rings

creamy sausage stuffed delicata squash rings - featured image
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A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring tender delicata squash rings stuffed with a rich, creamy filling of spicy Italian sausage, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar. This rustic dish is perfect for hosting or busy nights, coming together in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds delicata squash, sliced into 1-inch rings
  • 1 pound raw Italian sausage (spicy or mild), casings removed
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the delicata squash and slice into 1-inch thick rings. Remove seeds from the center of each ring using a spoon to create a hollow space.
  3. Optional: Blanch squash rings in salted boiling water for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Drain well and pat dry completely. If skipping this step, bake rings for 15 minutes before adding filling.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent and fragrant.
  6. Remove pan from heat and let cool for 2 minutes. Stir in softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy.
  7. Place squash rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the sausage mixture into each ring, mounding it slightly.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, and squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
  9. Let rings rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow filling to set. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Ensure the squash is patted completely dry if blanched to prevent a soggy filling. Let the sausage mixture cool slightly before adding cream cheese to prevent separation. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and cheddar alternatives. This recipe is naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free sausage.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, stuffed squash, italian sausage, cream cheese, easy dinner, weeknight meals, gluten-free, comfort food, holiday party food

Find it online: https://tinastirs.com/creamy-sausage-stuffed-delicata-squash-rings-5-ingredient-easy-dinner/