Trader Joe's Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious meal option that is easy to make? Look no further than Trader Joe's Spaghetti Squash Casserole. This dish is not only tasty, but it is also packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized. In this article, we will explore the benefits of spaghetti squash, the ingredients and steps to make this casserole, and some tips to make it even more flavorful.
The Benefits of Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a unique vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber. It has a similar texture to spaghetti noodles, but it is much healthier. Spaghetti squash is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and calcium. It is also a great source of antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Because of its mild flavor, spaghetti squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. It can be baked, roasted, sautéed, or boiled. In this casserole recipe, we will be using spaghetti squash as the base for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Trader Joe's Spaghetti Squash Casserole:
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
- 1 pound ground turkey or chicken
- 1 jar of Trader Joe's Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Here are the steps to make Trader Joe's Spaghetti Squash Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Brush the flesh side of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender.
- While the squash is baking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground turkey or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the jar of Trader Joe's Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the spaghetti squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash into a large bowl, separating it into spaghetti-like strands.
- Add the tomato sauce mixture to the bowl with the spaghetti squash and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips to Make it Even More Flavorful
Here are some tips to make Trader Joe's Spaghetti Squash Casserole even more delicious:
- Add some chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the tomato sauce mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Try using a different type of cheese, such as feta or parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
- Top the casserole with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Trader Joe's Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a healthy and delicious meal option that is easy to make and packed with nutrients. Spaghetti squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes, and it is a great source of vitamins and antioxidants. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can make a flavorful casserole that your whole family will love.
