Stuffed Spaghetti Squash With Ground Turkey
Looking for a healthy and delicious meal that will satisfy your hunger? Look no further than stuffed spaghetti squash with ground turkey. This dish is packed with flavor, nutrients, and protein, making it the perfect dinner option for anyone who wants to eat well and feel great.
What Is Spaghetti Squash?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about spaghetti squash. This unique vegetable is a type of winter squash that, when cooked, has strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. It's low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Plus, it's incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.
The Benefits of Ground Turkey
Now, let's talk about the other star of this dish: ground turkey. This lean protein is a great alternative to ground beef, as it's lower in fat and calories. Plus, it's packed with vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, potassium, and selenium. It's also a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.
The Recipe
Now that we know the benefits of the main ingredients, let's get to the recipe. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Here's how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy parts.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
- While the squash is cooking, brown the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- When the squash is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into strands.
- Divide the turkey mixture evenly between the two squash halves, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
This recipe serves two, but you can easily double or triple it if you're cooking for a larger group. It's also a great meal prep option, as it reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed spaghetti squash with ground turkey is a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for any day of the week. It's easy to make, packed with nutrients, and tastes great. Plus, it's a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet.