### Acorn Squash Stuffed with Cheesy Mushroom Rice: A Delicious Fall Dish
#### Introduction:
Acorn squashes are a delightful autumn treat, offering both taste and nutrition. This recipe combines tender acorn squash halves filled with a creamy, flavorful mixture of cooked rice, mushrooms, cheese, and aromatic spices. Perfect for the fall season, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized acorn squashes
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 8 oz button mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
#### Instructions:
1. **Preparation:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the top off each acorn squash and remove the seeds. Place the cut side down in a baking dish.
2. **Cooking the Rice:**
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender (about 18-20 minutes).
3. **Sautéing Vegetables:**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. **Adding Mushrooms and Spices:**
- Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet with the onion mixture.
- Cook for about 10 minutes or until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. **Combining Ingredients:**
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the sautéed mushroom mixture and shredded cheese to the rice. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
6. **Stuffed Squash:**
- Spoon the cheesy rice mixture into each acorn squash half, filling them up almost to the top.
- Dot a small amount of butter on top for added flavor.
7. **Baking:**
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Uncover, remove from the oven, and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.
#### Tips:
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can add some chopped herbs like parsley or basil to the rice mixture.
- Use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda for a more complex taste profile.
#### Conclusion:
This Acorn Squash Stuffed with Cheesy Mushroom Rice is not just a hearty meal but also a delightful way to celebrate the fall season. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish promises to be a favorite among your guests. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of autumn!
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By following these detailed steps, you can easily prepare a delicious and nutritious dish that will keep your family coming back for more. Enjoy the seasonal flavors!