Before diving into spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese, let’s talk side dishes. Personally, I find a fresh, crunchy salad works wonders. Something like Italian Pasta Salad with chickpeas, pepperoncini, and bell peppers brings the perfect complement to this cozy meal. And like our friend at thesproutingfoodie.com always says, make sure it’s zesty enough to balance the flavors of the meat sauce.
What is Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese?
Spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese is a comfort dish that marries the wholesome texture of spaghetti squash with the savory richness of a homemade meat sauce. The cheesy topping adds a decadent touch, making it a well-loved dish in many households. The combination not only delivers on taste but also offers a lower-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
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The Ingredients
- Ground beef or turkey: 1 ½ pounds
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and shredded
- Spaghetti squashes: 2 (3 lbs each), halved lengthwise, seeds scooped out
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons, divided
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces) plus a splash of water
- Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon
- Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, divided, with extra for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves: Thinly sliced or left whole
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
How to Make Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese?
To get started, imagine a cozy kitchen. Here’s where I embrace my inner chef. This dish fills the house with a lovely aroma, promising a comforting meal. It’s both a visual and culinary delight.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the spaghetti squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle each half with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Roast the Squash
Roast the squash in the oven for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you can easily pull the flesh into spaghetti-like strands with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Cook the Meat and Veggies
Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned all over. Add the shredded carrots and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until softened.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and a splash of water. Add the red pepper flakes, balsamic vinegar, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti strands. Mix one part of the Parmesan cheese into the meat sauce. Fill each squash half with the meat sauce.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. For extra cheesiness, top with more cheese if desired. Place the squash back in the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot. Marvel at your creation before diving in.
Notes
- Spaghetti Squash Size: Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your spaghetti squash.
- Consistency: For a thinner sauce, add a bit more water or broth.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
- Prep Ahead: Cook the meat sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Bulk Up: Add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Meat sauce can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of garlic bread for a crunchy contrast.
- Side Salad: A side of Italian Pasta Salad adds freshness.
- Red Wine: Pair with a robust red wine to enhance the flavors.
- Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside a platter of roasted seasonal vegetables.
- Extra Cheese: Always good to have a bowl of extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese?
- Ground chicken: For a leaner option, use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey.
- Vegan meat substitutes: Try plant-based ground meat to make it vegetarian.
- Tomato sauce: Use tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
- Zucchini noodles: Swap spaghetti squash for zucchini noodles for a different texture.
- Cottage cheese: Replace Parmesan with cottage cheese for a creamy finish.
Spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese
Equipment
- large skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 medium carrots peeled and shredded
- 2 3 lb each spaghetti squashes, halved lengthwise, seeds scooped out
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes plus a splash of water
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese divided, with extra for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves either thinly sliced or left whole
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the spaghetti squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle each half with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Roast the Squash
- Roast the squash in the oven for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you can easily pull the flesh into spaghetti-like strands with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
- While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Cook the Meat and Veggies
- Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned all over. Add the shredded carrots and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until softened.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and a splash of water. Add the red pepper flakes, balsamic vinegar, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
- Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti strands. Mix one part of the Parmesan cheese into the meat sauce. Fill each squash half with the meat sauce.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. For extra cheesiness, top with more cheese if desired. Place the squash back in the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot. Marvel at your creation before diving in.
Notes
- Spaghetti Squash Size: Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your spaghetti squash.
- Consistency: For a thinner sauce, add a bit more water or broth.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
- Prep Ahead: Cook the meat sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Bulk Up: Add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce a day or two in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat it when ready to use. The spaghetti squash can also be roasted ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
2. How do I know when spaghetti squash is done?
The squash is ready when you can easily scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands with a fork. The edges will be slightly browned.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground meat with a vegan meat alternative and use vegan cheese options.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or microwave in short bursts until heated through, keeping the texture intact.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, spaghetti squash is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about creating something wholesome and hearty for your loved ones. Easy to prepare, delicious, and packed with nutrients, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So, the next time you want to impress your family or friends, remember this recipe and savor every bite. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more