Veal Stuffed Acorn Squash

Veal Stuffed Acorn Squash

Veal Stuffed Acorn Squash is not only an easy veal recipe, but a bold explosion of flavors: nutrient-dense kale, sweet cranberries, toasted cinnamon raisin bread, and protein-packed ground veal - all packed neatly into an acorn squash bowl.
Most stuffed squash dishes are either super sweet with butter and cinnamon or savory and topped with cheese. This dish is a great twist to that with a touch of both savory and sweetness.
Cutting a squash in half before it softens can be hard. To help with that try microwaving the squash for about 3 minutes and then let it cool enough for you to handle, and slice. The softened skin makes the squash easier to cut.
This is a great recipe for fall when the acorn squash is just in season and fresh. While you're at it, try our Stuffed Eggplant with Veal and Spinach!

Ingredients

  • 3 small acorn squash, about 1-1/4 lbs. each
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 ribs celery (3 oz.), diced
  • 1 onion (5 oz.), diced
  • 1 lb. ground veal
  • 4 oz. mushrooms, trimmed and sliced
  • 1-1/4 tsp. poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
  • 4 cups packed chopped kale (about 4 oz.)
  • 4 slices cinnamon raisin bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes and toasted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375° F. Cut each squash lengthwise in half through the stem end; scoop out seeds and strings. Cut a thin slice off bottom of each squash half so that it will sit firmly. Place squash halves, cut-side down on foil-lined, greased baking sheet. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until squash is tender but not mushy; keep warm.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare squash filling: In large skillet over medium heat, in hot olive oil, cook celery and onion 5 minutes. Increase heat to medium; add veal and cook 2 – 3 minutes, stirring to break up meat. Add mushrooms, poultry seasoning, salt and pepper and continue to cook until veal is no longer pink and mushrooms are tender, stirring frequently.
  3. Add kale; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until kale wilts and is tender, stirring frequently. Remove mixture to bowl; stir in bread, cranberries and broth.
  4. Spoon hot veal mixture into center of each roasted squash half, reheating stuffed squashes if necessary.

Recipe Video

Nutrition

340
Calories

18g
Protein

12g
Fat

3.5g
Saturated Fat

410mg
Sodium

44g
Carbohydrates

40mg
Cholesterol

0g
Trans Fat

10g
Fiber

5g
Sugar

6% DV
Vitamin D

20% DV
Calcium

20% DV
Iron

25% DV
Potassium

Prep
Time:

30 minutes

Cook
Time:

45 minutes

Total
Time:

1 hour 15 minutes

Serving
Size:

6

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