Butternut Squash Rice, Sausage, Apple and Pecan Stuffing

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. 2
   Place the butternut squash noodles into a food processor and pulse until rice-like. Set aside.
3. 3
   Place a large, deep skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once oil heats, add in the garlic, celery, onion, thyme and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the vegetables soften and then add in the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon and cook until its no longer pink, about 5 more minutes.
4. 4
   Add in the apples, butternut squash rice and parsley. Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes or until everything is heated through.
5. 5
   Remove from heat and transfer to a large casserole dish. Fold in the pecans, stir once more and then top with the parmesan cheese (optional) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until butternut squash rice is no longer crunchy.