Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Stuffed spaghetti squash is a delightful dish that combines comfort food with healthy ingredients. These cheesy lasagna boats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The unique feature of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Stuffed spaghetti squash offers a low-carb option that satisfies your cravings without the guilt.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is quick to make, even on busy nights.
• Versatile Dish: You can customize the filling to suit your tastes or use leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the nutritious twist on traditional lasagna.
• Great Presentation: The baked spaghetti squash boats make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create these stuffed spaghetti squash lasagna boats, you’ll need some essential tools that will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Sharp knife
• Spoon
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Roasting pan: Provides even heat distribution for roasting the spaghetti squash to perfection.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and easy cutting through the tough outer skin of the squash, making prep hassle-free.
• Spoon: Ideal for scooping out the cooked squash and mixing ingredients seamlessly.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your filling ingredients before stuffing them into the squash.

Ingredients

To make these delicious stuffed spaghetti squashes, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 medium Spaghetti squash
• 4 tsp Olive oil (divided)
• Sea salt

For the Filling

• 1 tbsp Olive oil (divided)
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1/2 lb Ground beef
• 1/2 tsp Sea salt
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper (or more if you like it spicy)
• 1/2 cup Marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Cheese Mixture

• 2/3 cup Ricotta cheese (whole milk or 2%)
• 1/3 cup Grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• Sea salt

Topping

• 2/3 cup Mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)

How to Make Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your spaghetti squash roasts evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.
2. Scoop out the seeds and stringy insides with a spoon.
3. Drizzle 2 teaspoons of olive oil over both halves, then sprinkle with sea salt.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

Place the squash halves cut-side down on a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until tender.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef; cook until browned.
4. Season with sea salt, black pepper, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Mix Cheese Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and additional seasoning if desired. This mixture adds creaminess to your filling.

Step 6: Assemble the Boats

Once roasted, carefully flip squash halves cut-side up. Use a fork to fluff up some of the strands inside each half. Fill each boat with ground beef mixture followed by dollops of ricotta blend.

Step 7: Add Mozzarella Topping

Top each filled spaghetti squash half with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 8: Final Baking

Return stuffed squashes to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Spaghetti Squash as a wholesome main course!

How to Serve Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Stuffed spaghetti squash is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the stuffed spaghetti squash halves directly on the plate for a rustic look.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to each serving.

Pair with a Green Salad

• A light green salad complements the rich flavors of the stuffed squash perfectly, adding crunch and freshness.

Enjoy with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up any extra marinara sauce, making it a heartier meal.

Make it a Meal Prep Option

• Portion out leftovers into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Creating the perfect stuffed spaghetti squash requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help elevate your dish.

• Choose the Right Squash: Look for a medium-sized spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures better flavor and texture.

• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before cooking. This helps achieve an even roast and caramelization of the squash.

• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Use sea salt and black pepper generously throughout preparation for enhanced flavor.

• Mix Ingredients Well: Ensure that the filling ingredients are mixed thoroughly before stuffing. This creates an even distribution of flavors in every bite.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your stuffed squash as it cooks. Overcooking can lead to mushy texture, so check for doneness regularly.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Pairing side dishes with stuffed spaghetti squash can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the cheesy filling perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that balances the dish well.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and freshness, making it a wholesome choice.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy side that pairs nicely with the richness of the squash.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crispness and acidity that contrasts beautifully with the comfort food elements of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed spaghetti squash, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning your squash can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and spices to enhance taste.
• Undercooking the Squash: If your spaghetti squash is too firm, it won’t shred properly. Ensure it’s fully cooked for tender strands.
• Overstuffing the Squash: Adding too much filling can cause spills and uneven cooking. Stick to a moderate amount for easy eating.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Following an incorrect cooking time can impact texture. Use a timer and check doneness regularly.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed spaghetti squash, along with answers.

What is Stuffed Spaghetti Squash?

Stuffed spaghetti squash is a healthy dish made by roasting spaghetti squash and filling it with flavorful ingredients like meat, cheese, and sauce.

How do I prepare the spaghetti squash?

Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil, and season before baking until tender.

Can I use different meats in my stuffed spaghetti squash?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with turkey or lamb based on your preference.

Is Stuffed Spaghetti Squash low carb?

Absolutely! This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for healthy eating plans.

How long does it take to cook stuffed spaghetti squash?

The total cooking time is around 55 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed spaghetti squash is an amazing dish that combines comfort food with healthy ingredients. It’s versatile—feel free to customize the filling with vegetables or different cheeses. Try this recipe today for a satisfying meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Stuffed spaghetti squash is a delicious and nutritious dish that reimagines traditional lasagna in a healthy way. This recipe features tender roasted spaghetti squash filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, creating a satisfying meal without the guilt. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these cheesy lasagna boats are not only delightful to eat but also visually appealing, making them a standout centerpiece on any table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or use up leftovers. Enjoy this wholesome comfort food that delivers on flavor and nutrition!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 4 tsp olive oil (divided)
• Sea salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2/3 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
3. Place cut-side down on a roasting pan and roast for 30–35 minutes until tender.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with parmesan and season to taste.
6. Once squash is roasted, flip the halves cut-side up, fluff strands with a fork, fill with the ground beef mixture, then dollop with the ricotta blend.
7. Top each half with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes until melted.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed spaghetti squash half (about 245g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg