Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

We love this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta because it’s low in carbs, but high in flavor – the perfect macro-friendly dinner recipe! This dish is great for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests. Its unique combination of spaghetti squash and rich flavors makes it a standout meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: This dish offers all the satisfaction of pasta without the carbs, making it ideal for those watching their intake.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella creates a deliciously rich flavor that will impress any palate.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Option: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an excellent choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium skillet
• Fork
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
• Medium skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground beef and blending it with marinara sauce seamlessly.
• Fork: Used for shredding the spaghetti squash into noodle-like strands, which gives it that pasta texture.

Ingredients

We love this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta because it’s low in carbs, but high in flavor – the perfect macro-friendly dinner recipe!

For the Base

• 1 large spaghetti squash
• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce

For Creaminess

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Flavoring

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and discard the seeds and membranes.

Step 2: Bake the Squash

Place the squash halves in a baking dish. Bake squash for 50-60 minutes or until just fork tender. Let cool for 10 minutes, then use a fork to loosen and shred the squash.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Meanwhile, heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the beef and cook, stirring and breaking up the beef until cooked through and browned, about 7-10 minutes. Strain any excess grease from the pan, then add the marinara sauce and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Mixture

Mix the ricotta with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Assemble Ingredients

Pour about half of the marinara sauce mixture over the spaghetti squash halves. Use a fork to mix this sauce with shredded squash. Spread ricotta mixture on top, followed by remaining marinara sauce. Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake Again

Transfer to the oven and bake for another 10-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned in some spots. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes if desired for further browning. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons balance the richness of the pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken adds extra protein and flavor.
• Italian Sausage: Crumbled Italian sausage can spice up the dish and add depth.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan gives a nutty flavor.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, add feta cheese on top before serving.

How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Making this dish truly shine is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta comes out perfect every time.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with your spices; they enhance the flavors significantly.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese can elevate the taste of your dish.
• Bake until golden: Ensure that your cheese is melted and golden for a beautiful presentation.
• Let it cool slightly: Allowing it to cool for a few minutes makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

To complement your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, consider these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal experience and add variety.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes; serve warm for maximum enjoyment.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil add color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch alongside your pasta.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For an extra veggie boost, serve spiralized zucchini as a low-carb side.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes adds an Italian flair that complements the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Squash: If you bake the spaghetti squash for too long, it can become mushy. Aim for fork-tender to keep the texture right.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your meat and sauce can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Using Low-Quality Marinara: The marinara sauce is a key flavor component. Choose a high-quality brand or homemade sauce for the best results.
• Not Straining Excess Grease: Failing to strain the ground beef can make your dish oily. Drain any grease after cooking for a cleaner flavor.
• Ignoring Cheese Variations: Sticking only to mozzarella might limit flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for added depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent odors.

Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, but spaghetti squash provides a unique texture that mimics pasta well. Zucchini or butternut squash could also work but may alter the taste.

How can I customize my Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, switch up the cheese varieties, or even use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above.

How do I know when spaghetti squash is done baking?

The squash should be fork-tender when cooked properly. You should be able to easily shred it into strands with a fork.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is not only delicious but also offers versatility in customization. Its low-carb nature makes it an excellent choice for those looking for healthier dinner options without sacrificing flavor. We encourage you to try this recipe and play around with different ingredients to make it your own!

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Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

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Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is a delightful and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes. This low-carb recipe combines the subtle flavors of roasted spaghetti squash with a rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy comfort food without the carbs. With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for added variety!

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large spaghetti squash
• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, remove seeds, and bake in a dish for 50-60 minutes until fork-tender.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef for 7-10 minutes, then add marinara sauce and simmer briefly.
4. Mix ricotta with seasonings and Parmesan.
5. Assemble by combining squash strands with marinara, layering ricotta mixture on top, then adding more marinara and mozzarella.
6. Bake for an additional 10-20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.