Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Mushrooms

Introduction

Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a tasty dish filled with all kinds of good things. The spaghetti squash is soft and delicious, and when you stuff it with Italian sausage, spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms, it makes a healthy and hearty meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great if you want a dish that is satisfying and packed with flavors. It’s also gluten-free and low in carbs, making it perfect for anyone watching their diet. Plus, it’s colorful and looks beautiful on your table!

How to Make Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Spinach, Tomatoes, and Mushrooms

Ingredients

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
While the squash is roasting, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until it becomes clear.
Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. If there is extra fat, drain it.
Stir in minced garlic, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes into the sausage mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes until mushrooms are soft.
Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the spaghetti squash is done cooking, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. Mix the strands with the sausage mixture.
Spoon the mixture back into the spaghetti squash halves and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you want before serving.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Serve this dish warm, straight from the oven. It’s perfect on its own or with a simple salad on the side.

How to Store Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving again.

Tips to Make Italian Sausage Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Choose a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size; it will be sweeter and tastier.
If the sausage is too greasy, make sure to drain any extra fat after cooking.
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavors.

Variation

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter option. You can also swap out the mozzarella cheese for another cheese like Parmesan.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and stuff the squash just before baking.

2. What can I serve with this dish? A fresh green salad or some garlic bread pairs well with this stuffed squash.

3. Can I freeze the stuffed spaghetti squash? Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.