Tart Cherry Squash Bake (with Optional Breakfast Sausage)

Quick Summary

This hearty version of the Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Squash Bake takes the classic sweet-and-savory side dish and adds a flavorful twist—crumbled breakfast sausage. The result is a satisfying, balanced dish that’s perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or a holiday dinner spread.

Published: February 2011 | Updated: October 2025

Chef’s Note

Adding breakfast sausage introduces a savory depth that complements the sweet, tangy cherries beautifully. You can prepare it entirely ahead of time, making it an easy dish to bring to potlucks or serve at home alongside eggs, roasted meats, or holiday favorites.

Prep & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squash

• 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted

• 1/2 cup dried tart cherries (Traverse Bay Farms recommended)

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

• 1/2 tablespoon Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

• 3 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• (Optional) 1/3 pound cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage

Instructions

1. Prep the Squash: Cut each acorn squash in half and remove seeds and fibers.

2. Bake: Place the squash halves cut-side down in a shallow baking pan with a small amount of water. Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

   • Microwave Option: Place squash cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with a little water. Microwave on High for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until tender.

3. Make the Filling: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine butter, cherry juice concentrate, dried cherries, pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Heat until the butter melts and ingredients are well mixed.

4. Add Sausage (Optional): Stir in the cooked breakfast sausage for a sweet-and-savory flavor.

5. Assemble: Turn the baked squash halves cut-side up. Fill each with a quarter of the cherry mixture (and sausage, if using). Mix some of the squash flesh with the filling for a blended flavor.

6. Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or a complete breakfast entrée.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Spicy Option: Use maple or spicy breakfast sausage to enhance the sweet cherries.

• Vegetarian Version: Omit sausage and add extra pecans for crunch.

• Drizzle Upgrade: A light maple syrup drizzle or a dusting of nutmeg makes this dish brunch-ready.

Nutritional Highlight

Tart cherries bring antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits, while acorn squash provides vitamins A and C. Adding breakfast sausage increases protein and makes this dish more filling for a full meal.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe showcases Traverse Bay Farms’ mission to combine flavor and wellness. Made with as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible and backed by 38+ national food awards, our Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate adds vibrant color and flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.

People Also Ask

Can I make this with butternut squash instead of acorn squash?
Yes, butternut’s sweetness pairs beautifully with tart cherries and sausage.

What type of sausage works best?
Mild pork or chicken breakfast sausage complements the cherries perfectly.

Can this be served for breakfast?
Absolutely. Serve alongside eggs or biscuits for a hearty morning meal.

How can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Bring the Taste Home

Experience Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate in new, creative ways—from sweet treats to savory sides. Our award-winning cherry products bring Michigan’s orchard flavor to your table.