Taco Stuffed Acorn Squash

I love fall and all the squash that comes with it!  I am always thinking of new ways to enjoy it and this Taco Stuffed Acorn Squash did not disappoint.  In fact my husband will not eat squash of any kind but he devoured this.  Having only 5 main ingredients plus a few spices and garnish it comes together so easily!  You could use any squash you like too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

You will love how simple it is make these Taco Stuffed Acorn Squash! The acorn squash has the consistency of a sweet potato yet has a nutty sweet flavor. Combined with the spicy taco beef is a match made in heaven. It is also a great way to get in extra veggies!

Ingredients You Will Need

Acorn Squash: Acorn squash is a winter squash that has a sweet , nutty flavor and can pair well with both sweet and savory dishes. It makes the best stuffed squash!

Ground Beef: Ground beef works wonders in so many dishes, imparting a hearty flavor and juicy texture that perfectly complements the sweet nutty flavor of the acorn squash and holds up to the spicy taco sauce too.

Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Fired roasted diced tomatoes are charred over an open flame and add a smoky flavor to the dish. They can be purchased canned and are ready to use making it super easy and quick.

Taco Sauce: I really love using Saucy Lips Taco Al Pastor in this dish as the sauce is a vibrant blend of sweet and spicy and they do all the work making the perfect taco flavor profile for you!

Red Onion: Red onion adds a crunchy texture and bold flavor, elevating salads with its zesty kick.

Avocado Oil Spray: Is very versatile and has a neutral flavor that can be used for baking, high-heat cooking, sautéing and frying.

Salt and Pepper: Elevates the overall flavor of any dish. Always salt in moderation in accordance with your dietary preferences.

Lime: Squeezing lime juice over the Taco Stuffed Acorn Squash adds a tangy citrus flavor that enhances the dish's overall taste and freshness.

Cilantro: While the cilantro in this dish is for a garnish, this bright and fresh herb adds a refreshing touch that complements the spicy-sweet blend perfectly.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan: Preheat oven to 400˚ and line a baking sheet with parchment.

Prepare the Acorn Squash: Wash the acorn squash, cut in half, seed it and then slice a very thin layer off the bottom so it will sit evenly on your pan.

Season the Acorn Squash: Spray the acorn with avocado oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake the Acorn Squash: Bake for 30 minutes or until fork tender.

Prepare the Beef: Meanwhile add beef to a skillet breaking apart and browning till longer pink.

Add Remaining Ingredients: Add onion, taco sauce, drained diced tomatoes, salt and pepper and simmer 5 minutes.

Stuff the Acorn Squash: Fill acorn squash with meat mixture.

Bake Again: Place back in oven for 10 minutes.

Garnish: Garnish with limes and cilantro.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Prepare the squash ahead of time: You can bake your squash ahead of time if you choose and simply reheat it in the microwave or in the air fryer for a bit then stuff with taco beef mixture.

Recipe Variations

Delicata Squash: You can use delicata in place of acorn squash or even large sweet potatoes.

Cheddar Cheese: If you are not concerned about keeping this recipe Paleo and Whole30 or Dairy Free friendly, add some shredded cheddar to the top of the mixture.

Dairy Free Sour Cream: A nice dollop of dairy free sour cream is a great addition to the dish too!

Storage Tips

Taco Stuffed Acorn Squash can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days when placed in a sealed airtight glass container, and it's freezer safe for up to 6 months.

FAQs About Taco Stuffed Acorn Squash

What makes a good squash?

Winter squash should feel heavy for its size and the stem should be in tact and not easily fall off. The skin should be matte in finish.

Which squash skin is not edible?

The only winter squash skin you need to avoid is spaghetti squash because of its thick skin. Other inedible squash skins are Hubbard squash, butternut squash and sugar pumpkin.

How would you describe the flavor of squash?

Most squash varieties have a mild, nutty and subtly sweet flavor. As such, they are usually treated as a vegetable but in fact it is technically a fruit!