Are you ready to indulge in a dish that perfectly marries comfort food with a healthy twist? Introducing the "Meat Lovers Spaghetti Squash Casserole"—a mouthwatering delight that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt! This hearty casserole features a savory blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, nestled atop tender strands of spaghetti squash, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Whether you're a meat lover or just looking for a delicious way to incorporate more veggies into your diet, this recipe is a must-try! Dive into this delectable dish that promises to be a hit at your dinner table and keep your taste buds dancing with joy!
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds and discard or save for roasting.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 35-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the squash roasts, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking the meat into small crumbles.
- Cook the meat until browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands directly in the baking dish.
- Mix the cooked meat with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning in the skillet.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly over the squash strands in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: When selecting your spaghetti squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This ensures that it will roast well and yield tender strands.
- Roasting Technique: For an even roast, place the squash cut-side down on the baking sheet. This helps to steam the flesh, making it easier to scrape into strands later.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add extra herbs or spices to the meat mixture! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, while fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavors even more.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! A blend of provolone and cheddar can create a unique flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time! Assemble it, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, or microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
