• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Food Sharing Vegan logo
  • Home
  • About
  • Cookbooks
  • Podcast
  • Recipes
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • About
  • Cookbooks
  • Podcast
  • Recipes
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • About
    • Cookbooks
    • Podcast
    • Recipes
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    Home » Dinner

    Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa]

    Nov 1, 2022 · 24 Comments

    107 shares
    • Facebook
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This 8-ingredient vegan stuffed acorn squash with quinoa and cranberries is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, is hearty, wholesome, comforting, and bursting with fall flavors—perfect for your Holiday table or a vegan main for dinner!

    completed Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa] on a white dish

    Hearty Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa

    When selecting a vegan main for the holidays, I have some criteria I like to follow. First, the dish obviously has to be delicious enough that even your omnivorous friends and families will want some. Second, the dish has to contain plenty of plant-based protein. Third (and final), I obviously don’t want anything too complicated or fussy to prepare. This vegan stuffed acorn squash fits all the criteria and is pretty to boot!

    With a combination of quinoa, kale, chickpeas, and cranberries, the stuffing for this vegan/vegetarian stuffed acorn squash is not only packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and naturally gluten-free but also bursting with Thanksgiving flavors (and all with just 6 ingredients).

    Acorn squash is also wonderfully flavorful with a nutty yet slightly sweet flavor that becomes lightly caramelized when roasted. This pairs well with the crispy topping of the quinoa stuffing once baked. More so, there are several ways to adapt the recipe to your and your guests’ liking.

    There’s no need to wait until the day to prepare the dish either. You can prep this vegan stuffed squash several days in advance, ready to warm up on the day, for a super fuss-free savory acorn squash recipe. Even on the preparation day, the process is wonderfully simple. So it’s a winner all around.

    In fact, this baked stuffed acorn squash is a balanced complete meal. However, it will pair wonderfully with other Thanksgiving and Christmas side dishes, like this healthy vegan green bean casserole, low-carb cauliflower stuffing, or a Brussels sprout salad!

    The Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash Ingredients

    The squash flesh’s tender, creamy, and slightly nutty-sweetness pairs perfectly with the chunky, textural, savory-tangy-sweet nutrient-dense filling. All with just 8 ingredients, plus oil!

    ingredients for Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa] measured out on a white surface

    The Acorn Squash:

    • Acorn squash: When selecting a ripe acorn squash, look for smooth, dull skin with no soft spots and is heavy for its size. In terms of color, look out for squash that’s primarily dark green in color.
    • Oil: Use neutral cooking oil, like vegetable oil, canola oil, avocado oil, etc.

    The Quinoa Cranberry Stuffing:

    • Quinoa: White, red, black, or tri-color quinoa will work. Check FAQs for substitutes.
    • Vegetable broth: Use your favorite veg broth, either regular or low-sodium.
    • Aromatics: There is a combination of red onion (white or yellow would also work) and garlic in this aromatic quinoa stuffed squash.
    • Kale: I use curly kale, but lacinato kale (also called Tuscan kale, Dinosaur kale, or Cavolo Nero) works too. To save time, use pre-chopped kale.
    • Cranberries: The combination of sweet and savory, especially with cranberries, make this a delicious Thanksgiving acorn squash recipe. However, feel free to omit them if preferred.
    • Chickpeas: Use 1 15-oz can of garbanzo beans or the home-cooked equivalent (1 ½ cups cooked = ¾ cup dried).

    You may also prefer to use salt & pepper to season the acorn squash before roasting it.

    Add-ins & Recipe Variations

    Not only is there a stuffed squash recipe to fit almost any occasion, but even this quinoa stuffed acorn squash recipe can be added to and tweaked dozens of ways. Here are just a few of my favorites.

    • Maple syrup: To further bring out the natural sweetness of the acorn squash, you could lightly brush the squash with some maple syrup before roasting it.
    • Nutritional yeast: For an umami-rich, 'cheesy', nutty flavor addition to the vegan stuffed squash recipe.
    • Dairy-free cheese: For 'cheesy' acorn squash, add shredded vegan parmesan or cheddar to the filling or sprinkle over the top of the vegan acorn squash dish.
    • Mushrooms: Adding some sliced baby Bella mushrooms to the filling (sauteed to remove excess liquid) can help to add more umami flavor and tender texture.
    • Celery: To add extra body to the filling. Slice and sauté with the onion.
    • Apple: Add a sweet-tart apple like Braeburn/Granny Smith, finely chopped, to the pan with the kale, and cook for 2 mins instead of 1.
    • Vegan sausage: For extra savory flavor, plant-based protein, and a delicious ingredient to combine with apple, add 1-2 vegan sausage links (skin removed, and ‘meat’ crumbled) to the filling. Add it with the kale.
    • Herbs: Add more flavor to the stuffing with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, sage, rosemary, etc. (use 1-2 tablespoon fresh, or half if dried). You can also use fresh herbs to garnish, like parsley/green onions.
    • Nuts/seeds: Mix some chopped nuts or whole seeds into the quinoa fillings for extra protein and texture. I.e., walnuts, pecans, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pine nuts, etc. I recommend lightly toasting them first for more flavor.
    • Pomegranate: To garnish the stuffed winter squash with more sweet-tangy elements.

    How to Make Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash?

    I prepared this Thanksgiving acorn squash recipe in just 6 low-fuss steps until wonderfully caramelized, tender, and packed with flavor for your holiday table!

    How To Roast Acorn Squash

    • 1) First, if you don’t have prepared quinoa, cook that using your favorite method (stove top, pressure cooker, etc.). Once cooked, set aside.
    • 2) Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400F/205C, and slice the acorn squash in half (downwards through the stem or across the squash). Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes from the two halves, then brush the squash with about 3 tablespoons of oil.
    halved acorn squash on a cutting board

    There’s no need to discard the seeds. Instead, you can rinse and dry them and roast them as a snack.

    • 3) Transfer the squash, face down, to a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes, or until the squash is tender (check with a knife or fork).
    post baked squash in a baking tray

    How to Make the Filling for Stuffed Acorn Squash

    • 4) In the last 15 minutes of the baking time, finely dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the kale, removing the tough stem. Then, heat the remaining 2 tablespoon oil in a large pan. Once hot, add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes tender and translucent.
    process shot of adding onions to pan
    process of adding garlic to pan
    • 5) Stir in the kale and cook for a further minute, then add the cooked quinoa, cranberries, and chickpeas, and mix until everything is evenly distributed.
    process of adding kale to pan
    process shot of adding quinoa to pan
    process shot of adding chickpeas to pan
    process shot of adding cranberries to pan
    completed stuffing mixture for Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa] in a pan
    • 6) Flip the squash halves over and divide the quinoa stuffing between the two halves. Once stuffed, return the stuffed squash to the oven for 10 minutes, until the quinoa on top is lightly browned and crispy, then serve warm and enjoy!
    process of adding stuffing mixture to acorn squash

    For a crispier top, spray it lightly with more oil.

    This vegan roasted acorn squash meal can be enjoyed alone, but also pairs well with all your favorite Thanksgiving and Christmas sides and works great as a vegan or vegetarian main at any roast dinner!

    FAQs

    Can I substitute or omit the chickpeas?

    Absolutely. Feel free to substitute them with another type of bean, like cannellini beans. However, my favorite alternative is to use green or brown lentils or omit them entirely for a lighter filling in the vegetarian stuffed acorn squash.

    What can I use instead of quinoa?

    There are plenty of ways you can make vegan acorn squash recipes. Aside from quinoa, my favorites include couscous or wild rice. Simply cook the grain of your choice using your favorite method, then continue with the recipe as written.

    Could I cut the squash into quarters?

    Absolutely, the portions will be slightly harder to stuff without making a mess, though.

    Can you eat the skin of acorn squash?

    Definitely, the entire squash is edible.

    Top Recipe Tips and Notes

    • Experiment with other squash: This method and stuffing will pair well with several types of winter squash, including butternut squash. You’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
    • Adjust the portion size: You can pile the stuffing up high or use less and fill more acorn squash halves.
    • Slicing the squash: Chop it lengthwise or widthwise without changing the baking method/time. If it doesn’t rest flat against your surface, slice a bit off the end so it doesn’t topple over once stuffed.
    • Season to taste: Taste the filling before stuffing the squash and season to taste.
    • To make it oil-free: Use vegetable broth to sauté the veggies and line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
    completed Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa] on a white dish

    Storage Recommendations

    Make ahead: This vegan stuffed acorn squash is the perfect make-ahead Thanksgiving vegan main. Simply prepare and assemble the baked stuffed acorn squash right up until you’re about to put it in the oven for the last time. Then, allow it to cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

    On the day, remove it from the fridge 30-40 minutes in advance, then transfer it to the oven until warmed through. It can help to cover the top with foil to begin with to avoid overly browning the stuffing.

    Store: Allow the quinoa stuffed acorn squash to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

    Freeze: Wrap the cooled squash in plastic wrap, pop it into a Ziplock/Stasher or freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Allow a portion to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

    You can also freeze just the quinoa filling in a freezer-safe container and enjoy it alone, add it to salads, or stuff various other veggies.

    Reheat: My favorite way is simple to pop it back in the oven (covered with foil if necessary) at 350F/175C until heated through. It will also microwave well, though you can even enjoy it directly from the fridge!

    More Vegan Thanksgiving Dishes

    • Vegan candied yams with marshmallows
    • The best vegan stuffing
    • Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes
    • Easy cranberry pear sauce
    • Garlic herb roasted vegetables
    • Air Fryer Asparagus
    • Instant Pot Apple Cider
    • Air Fryer Butternut Squash [Cubes + Halves]

    If you try this easy vegan stuffed acorn squash recipe, I’d love to know what you think in the comments below. I’d also really appreciate a recipe card rating!

    Photos by Alfonso Revilla

    completed Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa] on a white dish

    Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash [With Quinoa]

    This 8-ingredient vegan stuffed acorn squash with quinoa and cranberries is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, is hearty, wholesome, comforting, and bursting with fall flavors—perfect for your Holiday table or a vegan main for dinner!
    5 from 76 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 25 mins
    Cook Time 55 mins
    Total Time 1 hr 20 mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4
    Calories 500 kcal

    Equipment

    • measuring spoons
    • measuring cups
    • baking sheet
    • large pan

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup of quinoa
    • 2 cups of vegetable broth
    • 2 medium acorn squash halved
    • 5 tablespoons of oil divided
    • 1 small red onion diced
    • 3 cloves of garlic
    • 1 cup finely chopped kale
    • ½ cup dried cranberries
    • 1 (15-ounce) can of garbanzo beans drained and rinsed

    Instructions
     

    • Cook the quinoa in vegetable broth. Set aside.
    • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cut the acorn in half and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Brush the squash with 3 tablespoons of oil and place face down on a baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes. Leave the oven on.
    • In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Saute the onion and garlic for 3 minutes or until the onion becomes tender and translucent. Stir in the kale and saute for 1 more minute.
    • Stir in the quinoa, cranberries, and garbanzo beans until evenly mixed.
    • Flip the squash halves over and fill them with the quinoa filling. Place them in the oven for 10 minutes. Serve warm.

    Notes

    • Experiment with other squash: This method and stuffing will pair well with several types of winter squash, including butternut squash. You’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
    • Adjust the portion size: You can pile the stuffing up high or use less and fill more acorn squash halves.
    • Slicing the squash: Chop it lengthwise or widthwise without changing the baking method/time. If it doesn’t rest flat against your surface, slice a bit off the end so it doesn’t topple over once stuffed.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 69gProtein: 14gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 1395mgFiber: 13gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2722IUVitamin C: 41mgCalcium: 172mgIron: 5mg
    Keyword butternut squash, christmas recipes, cranberries, easy recipes, gluten free, hidden veggies, holiday main dish, holiday recipes, kale, stuffed acorn squash, stuffed recipes, stuffed squash, thanksgiving recipes, vegan, vegetarian
    Did you make this recipe?Mention @foodsharingvegan on Instagram!

    Disclaimer: Although foodsharingvegan.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Foodsharingvegan.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.

    More Dinner

    • Vegan Black Bean Tacos with Veggies
    • Easy Jackfruit Carnitas
    • Buffalo Chickpea Wraps
    • Dairy-Free Green Bean Casserole

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jere says

      November 02, 2022 at 4:14 am

      5 stars
      These squash are just awesome. I never would have thought of adding garbanzo beans but we love them. Plus I am always on the lookout for recipes using quinoa and that is what I loved most. This is a keeper recipe.

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:25 am

        So glad you enjoyed it! It's a yummy one with the best flavors!

        Reply
    2. Stephanie says

      November 02, 2022 at 11:17 am

      5 stars
      Yum! A dish that is delicious and healthy - just what I need for family dinners. The cranberries add color and taste!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:25 am

        The cranberry addition is my favorite! So so good!

        Reply
    3. Jenn says

      November 02, 2022 at 4:05 pm

      5 stars
      YUM! So seasonal and healthy! Thank you for the delicious recipe!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:26 am

        So glad you enjoyed it! It's a delicious one, alright!

        Reply
    4. juliette says

      November 02, 2022 at 5:15 pm

      5 stars
      A gorgeous stuffed squash recipe full of wonderful flavours and I love how simple it is to make. And I can freeze any additional portions for myself. Thank you.😊

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:27 am

        Yesss gotta love the easy recipes that are freezer friendly too!

        Reply
    5. Nora says

      November 02, 2022 at 7:35 pm

      5 stars
      What a decidedly great combination of flavors! I especially like the idea of combining cranberries with onion and garlic. A must-try recipe for me! Thanks!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:28 am

        Yesss - the combo of flavors is just the best! Such a yummy sweet fall recipe!

        Reply
    6. Swathi says

      November 04, 2022 at 12:37 am

      5 stars
      Vegan stuffed acorn squash with quinoa is perfect thanksgiving table I am going to give this one a try.

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:32 am

        Let us know what everyone thinks 🙂

        Reply
    7. Andrea says

      November 04, 2022 at 4:35 am

      5 stars
      so filling and delicious!

      Reply
    8. Tina says

      November 05, 2022 at 3:16 am

      5 stars
      I love this stuffed acorn squash recipe! It's so delicious!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 06, 2022 at 2:38 am

        Nothing like stuffed recipes to enjoy! They're always a hit!

        Reply
    9. Erin says

      November 07, 2022 at 1:55 am

      5 stars
      A perfect recipe for fall ... very filling and delicious!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 24, 2022 at 3:18 am

        Right?! Definitely hits the spot!

        Reply
    10. Rachel says

      November 07, 2022 at 8:12 pm

      5 stars
      This stuffed acorn squash is not only beautiful, but delicious too! I'm going to make it my Thanksgiving centerpiece!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 24, 2022 at 3:20 am

        Right?! Such a beauty!

        Reply
    11. Gina H. says

      November 08, 2022 at 5:25 pm

      5 stars
      Such a great idea to stuff acorn squash with quinoa. Very satisfying and yummy side dish!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 24, 2022 at 3:21 am

        Yessss - nothing like a delicious stuffed recipe to enjoy!

        Reply
    12. Beatriz says

      November 11, 2022 at 12:16 pm

      5 stars
      These are amazing!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        November 24, 2022 at 3:23 am

        Right?! So so good!

        Reply
    13. Janaye says

      November 30, 2022 at 4:10 am

      5 stars
      I love stuffed vegetables it’s simple all in one meal!

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Toni. Welcome to Food Sharing Vegan. Here you'll find comforting, delicious, vegan recipes to share with friends and family.

    Fall Favorites

    • The Best Cauliflower Stuffing
    • Instant Pot Apple Cider
    • Air Fryer Butternut Squash [Cubes + Halves]
    • Vegan Candied Yams with Marshmallows

    Breakfast Recipes

    • Vegan Avocado Toast
    • Vegan Cinnamon and Banana Pecan Muffins
    • Easy Vegan Pumpkin Muffins
    • Easy Vegan Pumpkin Pancakes

    Footer

    As Featured On

    Terms

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Terms & Conditions
    • Accessibility Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign up for emails and updates

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Cookbook
    • Podcast

    ↑ back to top

    • facebook
    • instagram
    • pinterest

    Copyright © 2022 Food Sharing Vegan