Calabaza Rellena Nica (nicaraguan-style Stuffed Squash)

Calabaza Rellena Nica, or Nicaraguan-style Stuffed Squash, is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. This traditional Nicaraguan recipe features a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, all stuffed inside a tender squash and baked to perfection.

Calabaza Rellena Nica (nicaraguan-style Stuffed Squash)

Ingredients

  • 1 large calabaza squash
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the top off the calabaza squash and scoop out the seeds to create a hollow cavity.
  3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Stir in the cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Fill the hollowed-out squash with the beef and rice mixture. Pour the tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  6. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Baking sheet Skillet

Tools

Knife Cutting board Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the Calabaza Rellena Nica with a side of fresh salad and a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

Make sure to choose a calabaza squash that is large enough to hold the filling and has a tender, flavorful flesh.

Cost

$15