Spaghetti Squash Recipes In Crock Pot
Spaghetti squash is a nutrient-packed vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber. It is a great alternative to pasta for those who are trying to cut down on carbs or gluten. The best part is that it is incredibly versatile and can be cooked in many different ways. One of the easiest and most delicious ways to prepare spaghetti squash is in a crock pot. This article will provide you with some amazing spaghetti squash recipes that you can make in your crock pot.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is oblong in shape and has a yellow or orange rind. When cooked, the flesh of the squash separates into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. It is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. It is also low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for those on a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
Why Cook Spaghetti Squash in a Crock Pot?
Using a crock pot to cook spaghetti squash is a great option because it is easy and convenient. All you need to do is cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and place it in the crock pot with some water or broth. Then just let it cook on low heat for a few hours, and you will have perfectly cooked spaghetti squash that is ready to be used in a variety of dishes.
Spaghetti Squash Recipes to Try in Your Crock Pot
1. Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce
This recipe is a healthier version of spaghetti and meat sauce. To make it, you will need:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Start by cooking the ground beef or turkey in a skillet until it is browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until they are softened. Then add the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning and let it simmer for a few minutes. Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds. Place it in the crock pot with some water or broth and let it cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape out the flesh in long strands. Top the spaghetti squash with the meat sauce and enjoy!
2. Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs
This recipe is a great option for those who love meatballs. To make it, you will need:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Start by making the meatballs. Mix together the ground beef or turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake the meatballs in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes. Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds. Place it in the crock pot with some water or broth and let it cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape out the flesh in long strands. Top the spaghetti squash with the meatballs and crushed tomatoes and enjoy!
3. Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai
This recipe is a healthy and delicious version of the classic Thai dish. To make it, you will need:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup of chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup of chopped peanuts
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Start by cutting the spaghetti squash in half and removing the seeds. Place it in the crock pot with some water or broth and let it cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape out the flesh in long strands. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and bell pepper and cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and fish sauce. Pour the sauce over the shrimp and bell pepper and let it simmer for a few minutes. Serve the shrimp and bell pepper mixture over the spaghetti squash and top with chopped green onions and peanuts.
Conclusion
Cooking spaghetti squash in a crock pot is a great way to enjoy this healthy and delicious vegetable. Whether you prefer it with meat sauce, meatballs, or in a Pad Thai dish, there are many different recipes to choose from. So why not give it a try and see how easy and tasty it can be?
