Spaghetti Squash Recipes With Marinara Sauce
Spaghetti squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a mild flavor and a unique texture that makes it an excellent substitute for pasta. In this article, we will explore some delicious spaghetti squash recipes with marinara sauce that are easy to make and perfect for a healthy meal.
What is Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash is a type of winter squash that is known for its unique stringy flesh. It is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. When cooked, the flesh of the squash separates into spaghetti-like strands, which makes it an excellent substitute for pasta.
How to Cook Spaghetti Squash
There are several ways to cook spaghetti squash. One of the easiest methods is to bake it in the oven. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the seeds and the stringy flesh from the center of the squash.
- Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily separates into spaghetti-like strands.
Spaghetti Squash Recipes With Marinara Sauce
Now that you know how to cook spaghetti squash, it’s time to explore some delicious recipes. Here are three spaghetti squash recipes with marinara sauce that are sure to be a hit:
1. Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs
This recipe is a healthy twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs. Instead of using pasta, we’re using spaghetti squash to keep it low-carb and gluten-free. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh from the center.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily separates into spaghetti-like strands.
- While the squash is baking, make the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the meatballs and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- When the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Divide the spaghetti squash among four plates and top with the meatballs and sauce.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve.
2. Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
This recipe is a healthier version of traditional lasagna that uses spaghetti squash instead of pasta. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh from the center.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily separates into spaghetti-like strands.
- While the squash is baking, make the meat sauce. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned.
- Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- When the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the spaghetti squash, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all of the ingredients are used up.
- Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Spaghetti Squash with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe is a simple and healthy way to enjoy spaghetti squash. It’s topped with roasted vegetables and a delicious marinara sauce. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh from the center.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily separates into spaghetti-like strands.
- While the squash is baking, toss the chopped peppers, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the vegetables out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
- When the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Divide the spaghetti squash among four plates and top with the roasted vegetables and marinara sauce.
- Enjoy!
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy alternative to pasta. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients. By using spaghetti squash in your recipes, you can enjoy all of the flavors of your favorite dishes without the guilt. Try out these spaghetti squash recipes with marinara sauce and see how easy it is to make healthy, delicious meals.
