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### **Feta Cheese**
Feta cheese brings a creamy, tangy flavor to the stuffing. Feta is a Greek cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, and it has a crumbly texture that works beautifully in this dish. You can use regular or reduced-fat feta depending on your preference. If you want a richer flavor, opt for full-fat feta.
### **Spinach**
Spinach is a great addition to this stuffed butternut squash recipe, adding both nutrition and flavor. It cooks down to a soft texture that pairs well with the other ingredients. Fresh spinach is preferred for this dish, as it wilts down easily and mixes well with the feta and bacon.
### **Bacon**
Bacon adds a savory, smoky richness to the stuffing. You can use regular bacon or turkey bacon depending on your dietary preferences. If you want to make the dish vegetarian, you can omit the bacon altogether or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
### **Additional Ingredients:**
– **Olive Oil:** For roasting the butternut squash, olive oil is an excellent choice because it adds richness and helps caramelize the squash.
– **Garlic:** A few cloves of garlic will add depth and complexity to the stuffing.
– **Onions:** A small onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and savory flavor to the filling.
– **Herbs and Spices:** Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary pair well with the flavors of the squash and bacon. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg, black pepper, or even red pepper flakes for extra heat.
– **Bread Crumbs (Optional):** If you want to give your stuffing a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
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## **4. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach, and Bacon**
Now that you understand the ingredients, let’s get into the step-by-step process of preparing this delightful dish.
### **Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash**
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Drizzle the flesh with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 45–50 minutes or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
### **Step 2: Cook the Bacon**
While the squash is roasting, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes, then transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
### **Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic**
In the same skillet that you used for the bacon, add a bit of olive oil if needed and sauté the onion over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
### **Step 4: Wilt the Spinach**
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the spinach cooks evenly. Once wilted, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
### **Step 5: Assemble the Stuffing**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, sautéed onions and garlic, wilted spinach, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix well to combine, and taste for seasoning. You can add a bit more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
### **Step 6: Stuff the Squash**
Once the butternut squash is roasted and tender, carefully scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a small border around the edges. Mash the scooped-out flesh and add it to the stuffing mixture, then stir to combine. Carefully stuff the squash halves with the filling, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s packed in.
### **Step 7: Bake**
Place the stuffed butternut squash back in the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden and crispy on top. If you like, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the stuffing for extra crunch.
### **Step 8: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the stuffed squash is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve each half on a plate, and garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.
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## **5. Variations on the Recipe: Customizing Your Stuffed Butternut Squash**
While the basic version of this stuffed butternut squash recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative with the ingredients. Here are a few variations you can try:
– **Add Nuts or Seeds:** Toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can add crunch and extra flavor to the stuffing.
– **Swap Feta for Goat Cheese:** If you prefer a creamier, tangier cheese, goat cheese is a fantastic substitute for feta.
– **Use Different Greens:** While spinach is the star in this recipe, you can also try using kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a slightly different flavor.
– **Make it Vegan:** To make the dish vegan, omit the bacon and feta, and use a plant-based cheese instead. You can also substitute the bacon with smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor.
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## **6. Why You Should Try Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach, and Bacon**
Stuffed butternut squash with feta, spinach, and bacon is a dish that has it all: great flavor, beautiful presentation, and plenty of health benefits. It’s perfect for a cozy fall dinner, a holiday feast, or even as a satisfying meal prep option.
This recipe offers the perfect balance of savory and sweet, rich and fresh. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, stuffed butternut squash is sure to impress.
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## **Conclusion: A Comforting Fall Dish You’ll Love**
There’s no better time than fall to enjoy the vibrant flavors of butternut squash. With the addition of feta, spinach, and bacon, this dish becomes a comforting, flavorful, and filling meal that’s perfect for almost any occasion. By following this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with delicious flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
Give this recipe a try, and discover why stuffed butternut squash has become a go-to comfort food for many. Enjoy!
