Wild Rice Stuffed Squash (Printable)

Savory roasted squash filled with wild rice, nuts, cranberries, and herbs—ideal for gatherings or a cozy main.

# List of ingredients:

→ Squash Preparation

01 - 2 medium acorn or delicata squash, halved and seeded
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Wild Rice Filling

05 - 1 cup wild rice blend, rinsed
06 - 2 cups vegetable broth
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
09 - 2 celery stalks, diced
10 - 1 medium carrot, diced
11 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
12 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
13 - 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
15 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
16 - 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
17 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Brush the cut sides of squash halves with olive oil and evenly season with salt and black pepper. Place squash cut side down on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 30 to 35 minutes, until tender.
03 - Combine wild rice blend and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Fluff rice with a fork.
04 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, diced celery, and diced carrot for 5 to 6 minutes or until vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
05 - Add cooked wild rice to the skillet. Stir in dried cranberries, toasted chopped nuts, fresh parsley, dried thyme, dried sage, and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors. Remove skillet from heat.
06 - Turn roasted squash halves cut side up. Fill each cavity evenly with the wild rice mixture. Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
07 - Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple vegetables and pantry grains
  • Delicate blend of earthy herbs and nutty wild rice
  • Suitable for gluten-free and vegetarian diets
  • Looks beautiful on the table and feels celebratory for holidays
  • Hearty enough to stand alone but versatile for side dishes
02 -
  • High in plant protein and fiber for lasting fullness
  • Naturally gluten free and dairy free if cheese is omitted
  • Freezes well for meal prep or leftovers
  • Perfect for seasonal produce and festive occasions
03 -
  • Rice can be made up to a day ahead to streamline prep
  • Always toast nuts right before use for best flavor
  • Choose squash that feels heavy for its size as this means richer flesh

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