If you’ve never tried patty pan squash, this is the dish that will turn you into a believer. With their adorable flying saucer shape and mild, buttery flavor, these tender summer squashes are the perfect edible bowls. When stuffed with a savory sausage and rice filling, then baked until golden, they transform into a hearty and comforting meal that steals the spotlight at any dinner table.

This recipe is one of those feel-good meals that checks all the boxes: it’s satisfying, full of texture, and makes the most of fresh, seasonal produce. The sausage brings richness, the rice gives body, and a touch of cheese and herbs ties everything together in a way that feels both rustic and refined. It’s a cozy dish, but one that looks impressive enough to serve to guests or on a special night.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Patty Pan Squash with Sausage and Rice

You’ll love this recipe because it brings together fresh veggies and savory flavors in a fun, creative way. It’s also incredibly versatile: you can make it ahead of time, change up the filling, or keep it meatless if you prefer. The presentation is stunning, but the prep is down-to-earth and doable. Even picky eaters are drawn in by the golden tops and the smell of sausage and herbs bubbling away in the oven.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best in This Recipe?

You can use any sausage you like, but a mildly seasoned Italian sausage or a country-style pork sausage works beautifully here. If you prefer a leaner option, try chicken or turkey sausage. And for those who want to skip meat, a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms can be a great stand-in. Just be sure to taste and season accordingly if you’re changing the protein.

Ingredients for the Stuffed Patty Pan Squash with Sausage and Rice

To bring out the best in the squash, you’ll want a mix of bold, savory, and aromatic ingredients. Each one brings a layer of flavor or texture that helps make the dish shine.

Patty pan squash
Ground sausage
Cooked rice
Yellow onion
Garlic
Olive oil
Parmesan cheese
Breadcrumbs
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper
Paprika

Stuffed Patty Pan Squash with Sausage and Rice 2

How to Make the Stuffed Patty Pan Squash with Sausage and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

Trim the tops of the patty pan squash and scoop out the centers using a spoon or melon baller. Set the flesh aside for the filling. Steam or boil the squash shells for about 5 minutes until just tender, then drain and place cut-side down on a towel to dry.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the diced onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned. Stir in the reserved squash flesh, followed by the cooked rice. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and fold in fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Step 3: Stuff and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the squash shells in a baking dish and fill generously with the sausage and rice mixture. Top with a mixture of breadcrumbs and more Parmesan. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the filling is heated through.

How to Serve and Store Your Stuffed Patty Pan Squash

This recipe makes enough to serve about 4 to 6 people, depending on the size of your squash and the portions. It’s ideal as a main dish, but can also be served as a hearty side.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The filling can also be made ahead and stored separately for a quicker weeknight prep.

What to Serve With Stuffed Patty Pan Squash?

Roasted Garlic Green Beans

They add a crisp contrast to the soft squash and savory filling.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for soaking up any of that cheesy, savory filling that may spill out onto the plate.

Simple Garden Salad

A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots bring brightness that complements the herbs and sausage.

Lemon Butter Asparagus

A zesty side that enhances the summery squash flavor.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

If you’re serving this as a main course, mashed potatoes round it out into pure comfort food.

Cold Pasta Salad

Especially great if you’re serving the stuffed squash at a summer cookout.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Smoky, buttery corn is always a welcome addition to any squash dish.

Want More Savory Dinner Ideas?

If hearty veggie-forward meals are your thing, here are some other favorites from the site to add to your rotation:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for an ultra-satisfying weeknight pasta.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you need a no-fuss dinner with bold flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce that’s packed with indulgent, cheesy goodness.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a creamy, meaty dinner that always pleases.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce when you want a cozy, oven-baked comfort meal.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it whenever you need a comforting stuffed veggie idea.

Let me know in the comments if you added your own twist to the filling or swapped in a different grain. I love seeing how others make this their own and am always happy to answer questions!

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