Go Back
+ servings
Spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese

Spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese

Before diving into spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese, let’s talk side dishes. Personally, I find a fresh, crunchy salad works wonders.
No ratings yet
Print Pin Rate
Author: Lori Walker, MS, RD
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Calories: 288kcal

Equipment

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.
Keyword: Spaghetti squash with meat sauce and cheese