Description
This Italian Sausage Stuffed Summer Squash recipe offers a savory and flavorful meal that combines tender summer squash with a hearty filling of seasoned Italian sausage, onions, garlic, and herbs, topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for a satisfying family dinner, blending delicious Italian flavors with wholesome vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Squash
- 4 medium summer squash, halved lengthwise and seeds scooped out
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Filling
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added texture)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or parmesan, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Squash: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the summer squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut side up in a baking dish.
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the sausage starts to brown, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add Seasonings and Breadcrumbs: Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, and breadcrumbs if using. Cook the mixture for an additional minute to blend the flavors. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Stuff the Squash: Spoon the cooked sausage mixture evenly into the hollowed-out squash halves, pressing gently to pack the filling firmly.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (or parmesan) evenly over the stuffed squash. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Italian sausage stuffed summer squash.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, use Parmesan cheese as a topping instead of mozzarella.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but help bind the filling and add a pleasant crunch.
- You can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or spicy Italian sausage according to preference.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added as garnish for extra freshness.
- If preferred, turkey or chicken sausage can be used as a leaner alternative.
