Creamed Spinach Stuffed Squash (Print-Friendly Format)

Butternut squash roasted and filled with creamy, cheesy spinach for a comforting, standout dish.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Butternut Squash

01 - 2 butternut squash, halved lengthwise
02 - 2 teaspoons salt
03 - 250 millilitres boiling water

→ Creamed Spinach Filling

04 - 1 onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, crushed
06 - 750 grams baby spinach, washed
07 - 2 tablespoons plain flour
08 - 250 millilitres whole milk
09 - 120 millilitres cream
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
11 - 60 grams mozzarella cheese, grated
12 - 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
13 - 2 teaspoons olive oil

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 180°C. Arrange the halved butternut squash in a deep roasting pan. Season with salt and pour boiling water into the pan. Cover tightly with foil.
02 - Roast the squash for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Remove from the oven, discard the seeds, and scoop out some flesh to create a cavity for stuffing. Reserve the cavities for filling.
03 - While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic and sauté until soft and translucent.
04 - Add the baby spinach and cook until wilted. Sprinkle in flour, stirring to combine evenly. Pour in the milk, stirring continuously to form a smooth sauce.
05 - Add cream and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 7 to 10 minutes, or until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in grated mozzarella cheese.
06 - Spoon the creamed spinach mixture into the cavities of each roasted butternut squash half. Sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese.
07 - Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
08 - Remove from the oven and serve hot as a side dish or vegetarian main course.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Allow the creamed spinach to cool slightly before adding cheese for a smoother texture and even melt.