Food Network Spaghetti Squash And Meatballs
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious dinner recipe? Look no further than Food Network's spaghetti squash and meatballs! This recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it's also a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. Plus, the spaghetti squash makes for a gluten-free alternative to regular pasta.
Ingredients
For the spaghetti squash:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the olive oil over the cut sides of the squash and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into 1 1/2-inch balls.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper and bring to a simmer.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the spaghetti squash into strands. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti squash.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Why Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's also a great gluten-free alternative to regular pasta. When cooked, the flesh of the spaghetti squash can be scraped into strands that resemble spaghetti. This makes it a great substitute for pasta in many dishes, including this one!
Conclusion
Food Network's spaghetti squash and meatballs is a delicious and healthy dinner option that is sure to please the whole family. The spaghetti squash makes for a tasty gluten-free alternative to regular pasta, and the meatballs are packed with flavor. Give it a try tonight!
