Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach & Bacon

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This Stuffed Butternut Squash with Feta, Spinach, and Bacon is the ultimate comfort food that looks as stunning as it tastes. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs perfectly with the salty bite of feta cheese and smoky crunch of bacon. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant, earthy balance, while a touch of garlic and herbs ties everything together.

This dish can serve as a show-stopping side dish for festive gatherings, a hearty main course for weeknights, or even a holiday centerpiece when you want to impress. The best part? It’s as wholesome as it is flavorful, with nutrient-rich squash, protein-packed bacon, and calcium-filled feta.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 2 medium butternut squashes, halved lengthwise and seeds removed

  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 4 cups fresh spinach

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

  • 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme (optional, for extra aroma)

🔪 Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Place the butternut squash halves on a baking sheet, flesh side up.

  • Brush with 2 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  • Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and slightly caramelized.

2. Cook the Bacon & Spinach

  • While squash is roasting, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Transfer to a plate and crumble.

  • In the same skillet (with a little bacon fat left), add spinach and sauté for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Filling

  • Once squash is roasted, gently scoop out a little of the flesh to create more room for stuffing (save it to stir into soups or mash).

  • Fill each half with sautéed spinach, sprinkle with crumbled feta, and top with crispy bacon pieces.

4. Final Roast

  • Drizzle with remaining olive oil, sprinkle herbs if using, and return to the oven for 10 minutes until the feta is slightly golden and melty.

5. Serve & Enjoy

  • Remove from oven, garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve hot.

  • Can be enjoyed as a main dish with crusty bread or as a side dish alongside roasted meats or salads.

  • 🍴 Serving Ideas

    • Pair with a fresh arugula salad for a light yet filling meal.

    • Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a hearty dinner.

    • Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze for extra sweetness and tang.

    💡 Cooking Tips

    • For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and add roasted chickpeas or caramelized onions.

    • Swap feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

    • Make it extra creamy by mixing feta with a spoon of cream cheese before stuffing.

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