Ground Beef And Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Spaghetti squash is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, including as a substitute for traditional pasta. It is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. Ground beef is a great source of protein and can be combined with spaghetti squash to make delicious and healthy meals. Here are some ground beef and spaghetti squash recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any day of the week.
1. Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce
This recipe is a healthier version of spaghetti with meat sauce. Instead of using traditional pasta, spaghetti squash is used as a substitute. To make this dish, you will need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 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 baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Serve the squash topped with the ground beef and tomato sauce.
2. Spaghetti Squash and Beef Stir-Fry
This recipe is a healthy and flavorful stir-fry that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. To make this dish, you will need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 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 baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Return the beef to the skillet and add the soy sauce and basil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Serve the squash topped with the beef stir-fry.
3. Cheesy Spaghetti Squash and Beef Casserole
This recipe is a delicious and comforting casserole that is perfect for a cozy night in. To make this dish, you will need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 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 baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Place the strands in a large mixing bowl and add the beef mixture. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
Ground beef and spaghetti squash are a great combination for healthy and delicious meals. These recipes are easy to make and perfect for any day of the week. Whether you're in the mood for a classic meat sauce, a flavorful stir-fry, or a cheesy casserole, these recipes have got you covered. So, next time you're looking for a healthy and satisfying meal, give one of these ground beef and spaghetti squash recipes a try!
