Baked Spaghetti Squash Recipes With Marinara

Are you looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to pasta? Look no further than spaghetti squash! This nutrient-dense vegetable is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. And with its stringy, noodle-like texture, it makes the perfect substitute for traditional pasta in a variety of dishes.

What is spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that gets its name from the fact that its flesh shreds into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. It has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and a firm, crunchy texture when raw, but becomes soft and tender when cooked.

Spaghetti squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. It's also low in calories, with just 42 calories per cup.

How to cook spaghetti squash

There are several ways to cook spaghetti squash, but the most common method is to bake it in the oven. Here's how:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the squash into long, thin strands.

Baked spaghetti squash with marinara sauce

One of the most popular ways to enjoy spaghetti squash is with marinara sauce. Here's a simple recipe for baked spaghetti squash with marinara:

Related Spaghetti

Ingredients:

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 jar marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and pulp.
Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the squash into long, thin strands and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Pour the marinara sauce over the squash and stir to combine.
Transfer the squash mixture to a baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Other ways to enjoy spaghetti squash

While spaghetti squash with marinara is a classic combination, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Here are a few ideas:

Spaghetti squash carbonara: Toss cooked spaghetti squash with crispy bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese for a healthier take on this classic Italian dish.
Spaghetti squash pad thai: Use spaghetti squash instead of rice noodles in this popular Thai dish for a low-carb, veggie-packed meal.
Spaghetti squash lasagna: Layer cooked spaghetti squash with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese for a delicious and satisfying casserole.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. With its low calorie count, high fiber content, and nutrient density, it's a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier. Whether you enjoy it with marinara sauce or get creative with other recipes, spaghetti squash is a versatile vegetable that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.