Jamie Oliver Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Stuffed butternut squash is one of those recipes that feels warm, wholesome, and deeply satisfying. Jamie Oliver’s style keeps things rustic yet bold, using simple ingredients like herbs, vegetables, grains, and cheese to create a beautiful balance of sweetness from the squash and savory richness from the filling. This stuffed squash can work as a hearty vegetarian main, a comforting side, or even a festive dish for gatherings. It’s full of color, nutrients, and flavor, making every bite worth the time it takes to prepare.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Perfect blend of sweet and savory – The natural sweetness of roasted squash pairs beautifully with herb-seasoned fillings.
• Ideal for vegetarian meals – Hearty enough to stand alone as a complete dish.
• Visually stunning presentation – Makes weeknight dinners feel special and festive occasions even better.
• Flexible and customizable – You can use rice, couscous, quinoa, vegetables, nuts, or cheese.
• Nutritious and filling – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and comforting flavors that keep you satisfied.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Stuffed Butternut Squash?

Jamie Oliver’s stuffed butternut squash is a roasted squash dish filled with a savory mixture of grains, herbs, vegetables, cheese, and sometimes nuts. The squash becomes soft and caramelized while the filling adds richness, texture, and depth of flavor.

Jamie Oliver Stuffed Butternut Squash Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash, halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 150g cooked quinoa or couscous
• 100g crumbled feta cheese
• 50g chopped spinach or kale
• 2 tbsp pine nuts or chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Squash

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place them face down on a baking tray. Roast for 40–50 minutes until golden and soft.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a pan and cook the onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Filling Ingredients

Stir in the red pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, quinoa or couscous, spinach or kale, nuts, and lemon zest. Cook for 3–4 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Turn off the heat and mix in the crumbled feta.

Step 4: Hollow the Squash

Once the squash is tender, scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a border. Mash the removed flesh and mix it into the filling for extra sweetness and texture.

Step 5: Stuff the Squash

Fill the hollowed squash halves generously with the prepared mixture. Press lightly to pack in as much filling as possible.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and thoroughly warm the filling.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the squash from the oven and garnish with parsley. Serve warm as a main course or side dish.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Prawn Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Curry
• Jamie Oliver Lamb and Chickpea Curry

What to Serve Jamie Oliver Stuffed Butternut Squash

• Pair with a fresh green salad – A crisp salad balances the richness of the stuffed squash.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken – For those wanting a protein boost.
• Try it with garlic bread – Adds a warm, comforting element to the plate.
• Enjoy roasted vegetables – Carrots, parsnips, or broccoli pair perfectly.
• Add a yogurt dressing – A cool, tangy drizzle complements the warm filling.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Stuffed Butternut Squash

• Choose a medium-to-large squash – This gives enough room for a generous filling.
• Roast the squash face down – It caramelizes better and becomes softer.
• Mix some squash flesh into the filling – Adds sweetness and moisture naturally.
• Don’t skip the lemon zest – It brightens the entire dish without overpowering it.
• Toast the nuts first – Enhances the flavor and crunch in every bite.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Stuffed Butternut Squash

• Use rice instead of quinoa – Makes the filling heartier and more traditional.
• Add chickpeas – Boosts protein and texture.
• Try goat cheese for a creamier and tangier flavor.
• Add cranberries or raisins – Brings a sweet contrast to the savory filling.
• Make a spicy version – Add chilli flakes or diced jalapeños.

How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Stuffed Butternut Squash?

Let the stuffed squash cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The filling continues to absorb flavors, making leftovers even tastier.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Stuffed Butternut Squash Leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven – Warm at 180°C until heated through for the best texture.
• Use the stovetop for the filling – Scoop out the filling and warm it gently in a pan.
• Heat in the microwave – Warm in 30-second intervals to avoid drying the squash.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

How do you make butternut squash soft enough to stuff?

Butternut squash becomes soft enough to stuff by roasting it cut-side down at a high temperature. Baking at 200°C (400°F) for 40–50 minutes allows the flesh to caramelize and soften naturally. This method ensures the squash can be easily scooped and filled without breaking apart.

Can I make stuffed butternut squash ahead of time?

Yes, stuffed butternut squash can be prepared ahead by roasting the squash and preparing the filling in advance. Store each component separately, then assemble and bake for the final 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps maintain texture and flavor without drying out the squash.

What fillings work best for Jamie Oliver-style stuffed butternut squash?

Grains like quinoa, couscous, or rice work beautifully because they absorb flavor and add body. Pairing them with vegetables, nuts, herbs, and cheese creates a satisfying balance. Ingredients like spinach, feta, pine nuts, and peppers are especially popular for this recipe.

How do I prevent stuffed butternut squash from becoming watery?

To avoid watery squash, roast it thoroughly to remove excess moisture and avoid over-steaming. Scooping out some of the flesh and mixing it into the filling also helps thicken the interior. Using firmer vegetables and well-drained grains prevents sogginess as well.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s stuffed butternut squash offers a warm, flavorful, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. It’s packed with vegetables, grains, and herbs, giving you a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. Try it once, and it may become a regular favorite on your table.

Print