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Cheesy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce

Cheesy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce


  • Author: Rosa Martinez
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 2-4 servings

Description

Looking for quick dinner ideas that are healthy, comforting, and satisfying? This Cheesy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce is the answer! Roasted spaghetti squash “noodles” are filled with rich, homemade meat sauce, melty mozzarella, and fresh herbs for a lightened-up, gluten-free twist on Italian comfort food. Whether you need a cozy weeknight dinner, an easy recipe for entertaining, or a way to add more veggies to your menu, this is a meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s perfect for anyone seeking healthy dinner ideas, delicious food ideas, and easy recipes for busy families.


Ingredients

1 large spaghetti squash

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle each half with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Place squash halves cut side down on the baking sheet. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until fork-tender. While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add remaining olive oil, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in crushed tomatoes, remaining Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove squash from oven and let cool slightly. Turn squash halves cut side up and use a fork to gently scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, keeping them inside the shell. Spoon meat sauce evenly into each squash half and mix lightly. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Return squash halves to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based alternative. For extra flavor, add fresh basil or swap in Italian sausage for the ground beef. If making ahead, assemble up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake with cheese just before serving.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Oven + Skillet
  • Cuisine: American, Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 stuffed squash (about 2 servings per squash)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: easy dinner, low carb, spaghetti squash, healthy recipe, comfort food