If you’re searching for a deliciously satisfying dish that’s both hearty and healthy, look no further than this Spaghetti Squash Casserole Bake! This Italian-inspired recipe transforms the humble spaghetti squash into a comforting casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With layers of savory ground turkey or beef, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor! Ready to discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds and internal membranes with a spoon.
- Drizzle the inside of the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, brown the ground turkey or beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small crumbles and cook until no pink remains.
- Drain any excess fat from the meat and stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer the meat sauce for 5-7 minutes.
- Once the squash is cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- In a large baking dish, layer the spaghetti squash strands, then top with the meat sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a medium-sized spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size. This will ensure a good yield of strands for your casserole.
- Roasting Technique: When roasting the squash, placing it cut-side down helps steam the flesh, making it tender and easier to scrape into strands.
- Meat Options: Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding ricotta for creaminess or use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a unique flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble it and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
- Garnish for Freshness: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add a pop of color but also enhance the flavor of your casserole. Don’t skip this step!
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the squash is fork-tender before scraping it into strands. If it’s still firm, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
