Crock Pot Spaghetti Squash And Meatballs
Are you looking for a healthy and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than crock pot spaghetti squash and meatballs. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any diet.
What Is Spaghetti Squash?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about spaghetti squash. This unique vegetable gets its name from its stringy, spaghetti-like texture when cooked. It's a popular alternative to traditional pasta due to its lower calorie and carbohydrate content.
Spaghetti squash is also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. It's a versatile ingredient that can be roasted, baked, or microwaved, making it perfect for a variety of dishes.
The Benefits of Crock Pot Cooking
Crock pot cooking is a great way to save time and energy in the kitchen while still making delicious, healthy meals. With a crock pot, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks. Plus, slow cooking can help to enhance the flavors in your dish and make meat more tender.
The Recipe: Crock Pot Spaghetti Squash And Meatballs
Now, let's get to the recipe. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Place the squash halves face down in the crock pot.
- Mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on top of the squash in the crock pot.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and squash.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Using a fork, scrape the spaghetti squash flesh into strands and serve topped with the meatballs and sauce.
This recipe serves 4-6 people and can easily be doubled for larger crowds. It's a great option for meal prep or for a cozy dinner at home.
Conclusion
Crock pot spaghetti squash and meatballs is a delicious and nutritious meal that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With the benefits of spaghetti squash and crock pot cooking, this recipe is a win-win for your taste buds and your health. Give it a try and see for yourself!