spaghetti squash

Spaghetti Squash Casserole offers a delightful twist on the classic Italian pasta dish, providing a low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This casserole combines tender strands of spaghetti squash with savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tangy marinara sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why Make Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy the flavors of traditional spaghetti while incorporating more vegetables into their diet. By using spaghetti squash instead of pasta, this casserole offers a lighter, gluten-free option that’s packed with nutrients. It’s also a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters or those trying to increase their vegetable intake.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Casserole

For the Squash:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a rimmed baking sheet with non-stick spray.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard them. Drizzle the inside of the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Place the spaghetti squash halves flesh side down on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 hour or until fork-tender.
4. Use a fork to scrape out long strands of squash, scraping across the width of the squash.

For the Meat Sauce:

1. Brown the ground beef over medium heat in a large skillet.
2. Drain any excess grease and add the marinara sauce to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes over low heat to heat through.

For the Cream Cheese Mixture:

1. In a small mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and chopped parsley. Stir well to combine.

To Assemble:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Place half of the spaghetti squash in the prepared baking dish.
3. Top the squash with half of the meat sauce and all of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Add the remaining spaghetti squash followed by the remaining meat sauce.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot.

Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Spaghetti Squash Casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal. It’s also delicious topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage Info

Store any leftover Spaghetti Squash Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Some Techniques or Tips

• Be sure to fully cook the spaghetti squash until it’s fork-tender for the best texture.
• Feel free to customize the casserole by adding additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce.
• For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.

FAQs about Spaghetti Squash Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through.
2. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
   • While spaghetti squash can become a bit watery when frozen and reheated, you can still freeze leftovers of this casserole. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different upon reheating.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

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