Acorn Squash Bowls

Roast the Squash (30 minutes total):

1.    Preheat oven to 425°F.

2.    Lightly drizzle the cut side of each squash half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

3.    Place squash cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4.    Roast for 25–30 minutes until fork-tender and lightly golden on the edges.

Make the Sausage-Kale Filling (20 minutes, overlaps with squash):

5.    While squash roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

6.    Sauté shallot for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add 3 cloves garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

7.    Add sausage, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until fully done, about 5–6 minutes.

8.    Stir in kale, mushrooms, bone broth, lemon juice, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Sauté 3–5 minutes until wilted and tender.

9.    Stir in chopped parsley and diced apple just before turning off the heat.

Assemble & Broil (5 minutes):

10.  Flip roasted squash halves over and fill each with the sausage–kale mixture.

11.  Sprinkle each with walnuts, Parmesan, and crushed pork rinds.

12.  Broil on high for 2–3 minutes, watching closely, until golden and crisped on top.

Serve & Enjoy:

13.  Serve hot in shallow bowls.

Meal prep tip: Roast the squash and make the filling ahead. Reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

Total Macros:

Calories:410

Protein: 27g

Carbs: 21g

Fat: 25g

Nutrition Facts:

🎃 Acorn Squash

Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, which support immunity and skin health.

High in soluble fiber, which promotes gut health and helps regulate blood sugar.

Contains B vitamins that support energy production — perfect for fall energy slumps!

🥬 Kale

One of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, loaded with vitamins A, C, and K.

A great source of plant-based calcium and lutein, which supports bone and eye health.

Fun fact: Kale has more vitamin C than an orange per cup!

🍎 Apples

The pectin in apples is a prebiotic fiber that feeds healthy gut bacteria.

Naturally sweet, they help balance the savory flavors without added sugar.

Rich in quercetin, a plant compound linked to brain health and reduced inflammation.

🐖 Pasture-Raised Sausage

Provides high-quality complete protein and essential B vitamins (like B12 and niacin).

If you're using pork or chicken sausage, look for nitrate-free and pasture-raised options for the cleanest flavor and nutrients.

Sausage fat helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins from your kale and squash!

🧄 Garlic & Shallot

Garlic is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties thanks to its allicin content.

Shallots are rich in antioxidants and prebiotics, making them great for digestion and immune support.

🌰 Walnuts

A powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and heart health.

Also rich in polyphenols, which help fight oxidative stress.

🧀 Parmesan Cheese

Aged Parmesan is low in lactose and rich in umami flavor, adding depth without overwhelming the dish.

Also a good source of calcium and protein.

🐖 Pork Rinds (Crushed)

A fun crunchy topping that’s carb-free and naturally high in collagen and gelatin — good for skin, joints, and gut lining!

Great Whole30 alternative to breadcrumbs (check label for clean brands).

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