Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese Recipe

Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese: A Healthy Comfort Classic

Craving a comforting bowl of spaghetti and meatballs but looking for a lighter take on the classic? Look no further than this delicious Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese recipe! We’ve swapped out traditional pasta for the naturally sweet and stringy flesh of spaghetti squash, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

This recipe is surprisingly easy to make. The spaghetti squash roasts until tender, then easily separates into strands resembling pasta. A flavorful meat sauce simmers on the stovetop, and a sprinkle of melted cheese adds the perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re watching your carb intake or simply looking for a healthier way to enjoy a beloved comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!

Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese Recipe Card

A hearty, comforting dish that combines the tender flesh of spaghetti squash with a rich meat sauce and a layer of melted cheese.

• Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash (1.8 kg / 4 lbs)
• 500g / 2 cups ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz / 794g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 250g / 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 50g / 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F. Bake spaghetti squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Meanwhile, cook ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil; simmer for 20-25 minutes. Serve meat sauce over roasted spaghetti squash, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

To prepare this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 large spaghetti squash (approximately 1.8 kg / 4 lbs)
• 450 g / 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination of the two)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (approximately 115 g / 1/2 cup)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced (approximately 15 g / 1 tablespoon)
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes (410 g / 14.5 oz)
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup of red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 120 g / 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 60 g / 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Olive oil, for brushing the squash
• Optional ingredients:
  • 115 g / 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 60 g / 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1-2 dried red chili flakes, for added heat

With these ingredients, you’ll be able to create a flavorful and satisfying Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Instructions for Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

Preparing the Spaghetti Squash

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Once cooked, let the squash cool slightly before using a fork to scrape out the flesh into strands.

Making the Meat Sauce

While the squash is roasting, prepare the meat sauce.

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
3. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Stir in 1 chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembling and Baking

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Top with the spaghetti squash strands.
4. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the squash.
5. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Expert Advice for a Show-Stopping Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

Take your Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese to the next level with these expert tips and tricks.

Cooking Techniques to Master

• Roast the squash evenly: To achieve a tender, caramelized exterior and a fluffy interior, roast the squash at 220°C (425°F) for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is easily pierced with a fork.
• Don’t overcook the meat sauce: A rich, flavorful meat sauce is essential to this dish. Cook the sauce over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.
• Use a mix of cheeses: A blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta cheese adds depth and creaminess to the dish. Experiment with different ratios to find your perfect combination.

Ingredient Selection for Success

• Choose a ripe squash: Select a spaghetti squash with a hard, smooth rind and a sweet, nutty aroma. This ensures a tender, flavorful flesh.
• Avoid over-processing the meat sauce: Use a combination of ground meats (beef, pork, or turkey) for a rich, meaty flavor. Avoid over-processing, which can lead to a dense, heavy sauce.

By following these expert tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese that’s sure to impress.

Substitutions for Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

For a tailored Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese, consider the following substitutions:

• Gluten-free option: Replace traditional pasta sauce with a gluten-free alternative made from 240 g / 1 cup of crushed tomatoes, 60 g / 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 15 g / 1 tablespoon of gluten-free tomato paste.
• Dairy-free cheese: Use 120 g / 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast to mimic the cheesy flavor, or substitute with 120 g / 1/2 cup of dairy-free mozzarella shreds.
• For the meat sauce, substitute 450 g / 1 pound of ground beef with 450 g / 1 pound of ground turkey or 225 g / 1/2 pound of mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

When making these substitutions, note that the flavor profile may vary. For example, gluten-free tomato paste can be more intense, so start with a small amount (7 g / 1 teaspoon) and adjust to taste. Additionally, dairy-free cheese alternatives can have a softer texture, so consider mixing with 15 g / 1 tablespoon of tapioca starch for a creamier sauce.

Variations on Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

Love this recipe but want to shake things up? Here are some easy ways to customize your Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese:

1. Spice it Up

   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a touch of heat. You can also experiment with other spices like cumin, paprika, or oregano for a more complex flavor profile. This will add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

2. Veggie Boost

   Sauté diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the ground meat for added flavor and nutrition. Spinach or kale wilted into the sauce at the end also adds a healthy dose of greens. This will increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.

3. Meatless Monday

   Swap the ground beef for crumbled plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist. Make sure to choose a variety that mimics the texture of ground beef for best results. Cooking time remains the same.

4. Cheese Please!

   Get creative with your cheese choices! Try a blend of mozzarella and parmesan, or add a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. You can also use a vegan cheese alternative.

Storing and Reheating Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

After preparing your Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese, it’s essential to store and reheat it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Short-Term Storage (up to 3 days)

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Transfer the Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese to a covered container, making sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent moisture buildup.
• Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below.

Long-Term Storage (up to 3 months) and Freezing

• Portion the dish into airtight containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label and date the containers, then store them in the freezer at -18°C (0°F) or below.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the microwave or oven (see below).

Reheating Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or use the microwave on medium heat.
2. Transfer the Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese to a covered dish or microwave-safe container.
3. Reheat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is hot, following the recommended cooking times below:
• Oven: 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: 2-3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

Even with the best recipe, issues can arise when preparing Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Some of the most frequent issues include overcooking the spaghetti squash, which results in a mushy texture, and underseasoning the meat sauce, leading to a bland flavor. To address these problems, consider the following fixes:

• Overcooked spaghetti squash: Check the squash for doneness after 30-40 minutes at 200°C / 400°F. If it’s still firm, continue to bake in 10-minute increments until it’s tender.
• Underseasoned meat sauce: Add more herbs and spices to taste, and consider simmering the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Cheese not melting: Increase the oven temperature to 220°C / 425°F for the last 5-10 minutes of baking, or use a broiler to melt the cheese quickly.
• Meat sauce too thick: Add a small amount of water or broth (about 60 ml / 1/4 cup) to thin out the sauce, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

By being aware of these common issues and their solutions, you can ensure a delicious and satisfying Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese dish every time.

Nutritional Information

This Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal while offering a good source of essential nutrients.

Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 350g)

• Calories: 450kcal (1880kJ)
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g

This recipe is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.

Diet Tags: This recipe is not gluten-free or vegan.

Key Takeaways for Making the Best Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

To achieve a delicious and satisfying Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese, several key takeaways must be considered. First, selecting the right squash is crucial, as a mature spaghetti squash will yield a better texture and flavor.

• Cooking the squash at 200°C / 400°F for about 45 minutes, or until tender, is essential for bringing out its natural sweetness.
• Preparing the meat sauce with 450 g / 1 lb ground meat, 240 g / 1 cup canned tomatoes, and 15 g / 1 tbsp olive oil will create a rich and savory flavor profile.
• Combining the squash and meat sauce with 120 g / 1/2 cup grated cheese, such as parmesan or mozzarella, will add a creamy and indulgent touch to the dish.

By following these key takeaways and techniques, a satisfying and flavorful Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese can be achieved, making it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

A Family Favorite with a Healthy Twist

This Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese recipe has been a staple in my family for years. We love the hearty, comforting flavors of the meat sauce, but the spaghetti squash adds a lighter, healthier twist. My kids used to be picky about veggies, but they gobble this up without a second thought!

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice it up! Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little kick.
• Go vegetarian! Swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Cheese, please! While mozzarella is classic, try Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a more complex flavor.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. It’s easy to customize to your family’s preferences.

Conclusion: Enjoying the Perfect Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce and Cheese

With this recipe, you’ve mastered the art of combining tender spaghetti squash, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese for a satisfying and comforting meal. The perfect blend of flavors and textures is just a few ingredients away. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations – try adding your favorite herbs, spices, or meats to make this dish truly yours.

For more creative twists, explore our related recipes, such as Baked Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Sauce or Creamy Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Shrimp. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to see what you create!