This Brie-Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The roasted acorn squash serves as the perfect vessel for creamy Brie, tangy dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. Drizzled with maple syrup and topped with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, this dish makes for an elegant side or a cozy main course, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients
For the Squash
- 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling
- 4 oz Brie cheese, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
For Garnish
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Roast the Squash
Rub the inside of the acorn squash halves with olive oil, and season with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Add the Brie and Filling
After roasting, flip the squash halves over. Place Brie chunks in the center of each half, then top with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts. Drizzle with maple syrup.
4. Bake Again
Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the Brie is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve warm, either as a side dish or main course.
Notes
- You can add a handful of cooked quinoa or wild rice to the filling to make the dish more substantial.
- Pecans can be substituted for walnuts if preferred.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of nutmeg or ginger on the squash before roasting.
Helpful Tips
1. Choose the Right Squash
Pick acorn squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This ensures the squash will be tender when roasted and hold up well to the filling.
2. Roast Until Tender
Make sure the squash is fully roasted before adding the Brie, cranberries, and walnuts. The flesh should be easily pierced with a fork before proceeding to the next step.
3. Adjust Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce or even omit the maple syrup. Alternatively, drizzle the syrup after baking for more control over the sweetness.
4. Make It Ahead
You can roast the squash ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, add the Brie, cranberries, and walnuts, then bake for 5-7 minutes until the Brie melts.
Substitutions and Variations
1. Cheese
If Brie isn’t available, you can substitute with goat cheese, cream cheese, or Camembert for a similar creamy texture and flavor.
2. Nuts
Swap walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pistachios for a different nutty crunch.
3. Sweetness
For a less sweet dish, you can omit the maple syrup or use a savory alternative like balsamic glaze or olive oil with a sprinkle of sea salt.
4. Fruits
Replace cranberries with dried cherries, raisins, or chopped figs for a new flavor combination.
5. Grain Boost
To make the dish heartier, consider adding cooked quinoa, wild rice, or couscous to the filling.
These substitutions and variations allow you to customize the recipe based on your preferences and available ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the acorn squash ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply add the Brie, cranberries, and walnuts, then bake for 5-7 minutes until the Brie is melted.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
3. What can I serve with Brie-stuffed acorn squash?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a heartier meal. It also works well as a festive side dish for a holiday spread.
4. Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute acorn squash with butternut squash, delicata squash, or even small pumpkins for a similar flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
This Brie-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Cranberry-Walnut Filling offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. The creamy Brie melts beautifully with the sweet cranberries, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. The maple syrup and thyme garnish elevate this dish, making it an excellent choice for a cozy dinner or a festive side dish. Enjoy this delicious recipe with family and friends!