Spaghetti Squash Recipe With Meat Sauce
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. Not only is it low in calories and carbs, but it's also packed with vitamins and minerals. And when you pair it with a hearty meat sauce, you get a satisfying and nutritious meal that's perfect for any occasion. In this article, we'll show you how to make a delicious spaghetti squash recipe with meat sauce that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparing the Spaghetti Squash
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon.
3. Brush both halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. After removing the squash from the oven, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
Making the Meat Sauce
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assembling the Dish
1. Add the spaghetti squash to the skillet with the meat sauce and stir to combine.
2. Top with grated parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Variations
The great thing about this recipe is that it's so versatile. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce.
- Try different spices like cumin, chili powder, or red pepper flakes.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro.
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash with meat sauce is a delicious and healthy meal that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that your whole family will love. So give it a try and enjoy the benefits of this nutritious and tasty recipe!