Spaghetti Squash And Meat Sauce Recipe
Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Looking for a healthier alternative that still satisfies your carb cravings? Look no further than spaghetti squash! This versatile vegetable can be transformed into a delicious and nutritious meal with the addition of a flavorful meat sauce. In this article, we will share our favorite spaghetti squash and meat sauce recipe that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that gets its name from the stringy texture of its flesh when cooked. It is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great alternative to traditional pasta. The flesh of the spaghetti squash can be easily scraped out with a fork after cooking, creating a noodle-like texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 large spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Brush the inside of each half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily scraped with a fork.
- While the squash is cooking, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the flesh and transfer it to a large bowl.
- Add the meat sauce to the bowl and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Why Spaghetti Squash and Meat Sauce is a Healthy Meal:
Not only is spaghetti squash a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, but it is also packed with nutrients. One cup of cooked spaghetti squash contains only 42 calories and provides a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. The addition of lean ground beef and crushed tomatoes in the meat sauce provides a good source of protein and lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against certain types of cancer.
Conclusion:
Spaghetti squash and meat sauce is a delicious and healthy meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household. It is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Give this recipe a try and see for yourself how tasty and satisfying a healthy meal can be!
