Spinach Feta Bacon Stuffed Squash
This Spinach Feta Bacon Stuffed Squash is a cozy, flavor-packed dish that transforms a simple winter squash into an impressive meal or side dish. Sweet roasted honey nut or delicata squash serves as the perfect vessel for a savory filling of crispy bacon, sautéed spinach, garlic, and tangy feta cheese. The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a delicious balance, while herbs and spices add warmth and depth. Whether served as a light dinner, holiday side dish, or elegant lunch, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 2–4
Ingredients
- 1 honeynut or delicata squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 ounces feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh cracked black pepper, for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper.
Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and season evenly with salt and black pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are lightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 6–8 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about one tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet for extra flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted. Sprinkle in the thyme or oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked bacon and feta cheese. The warmth of the mixture will slightly soften the feta while keeping its creamy texture intact.
Step 4: Stuff the Squash
Turn the roasted squash halves cut-side up. If desired, gently scoop out a small amount of flesh to create extra room for the filling, then mix it into the spinach mixture.
Divide the spinach, bacon, and feta filling evenly among the squash halves, mounding it generously in the center.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 5–8 minutes, just until heated through and the feta begins to soften.
Remove from the oven and finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper.
Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet roasted squash, smoky bacon, savory spinach, and creamy feta cheese in every delicious bite.