Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Introduction

If you are looking for a tasty and healthy dish, you will love Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. This meal is not only flavorful but also a great way to enjoy vegetables. The spaghetti squash serves as a wonderful base, and filling it with Italian sausage, spinach, and cheese makes it a hearty dish. It’s perfect for dinner or even a cozy lunch.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it brings together delicious flavors like savory Italian sausage and fresh veggies. Second, using spaghetti squash as a base makes it a low-carb alternative to pasta, which is great for those watching their carb intake. Lastly, it is a one-dish meal, making clean-up much easier. You’ll enjoy it, and your family and friends will too!

How to Make Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (for cooking)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the inside with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Cook the Filling: While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender.
Add the Sausage: Next, add the Italian sausage into the skillet. Break it apart as it cooks, until it turns brown. Mix in the spinach and tomatoes, and cook until the spinach wilts. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Scrape the Squash: Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands.
Mix Together: In a large bowl, combine the spaghetti strands with the sausage mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Stuff the Squash: Fill the spaghetti squash halves with the sausage and spinach mixture. Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle on the Parmesan cheese.
Final Bake: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Serve the stuffed spaghetti squash warm from the oven. It’s great as a main dish and can be complemented with a simple salad or garlic bread on the side.

How to Store Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The stuffed spaghetti squash will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature until warm.

Tips to Make Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Use a sharp knife to cut the spaghetti squash carefully.
Adjust the spices based on your taste. If you like it spicy, use spicy Italian sausage.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for even more flavor.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the sausage with a plant-based meat substitute or just add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage if you prefer lower fat options.

Is spaghetti squash hard to cook?
Not at all! Just roast it in the oven, and it will become tender.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the squash before baking it later. Just make sure to store everything separately in the fridge.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash! It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love.