Better Than Spaghetti Squash Bake
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with the irresistible "Better Than Spaghetti Squash Bake," a wholesome twist on classic comfort food that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. Tender, roasted spaghetti squash serves as the perfect low-carb base, topped with a rich, savory ground turkey marinara sauce enhanced with garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Finished with a gooey layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this casserole strikes the ideal balance between hearty and healthy. Simple to prepare, this baked dish is ready in just over an hour and makes for a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil for a fragrant, restaurant-quality finish, and serve it straight from the oven for a cozy, family-friendly dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for fans of spaghetti squash recipes, low-carb casseroles, and cheesy oven-bakes!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 large Spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 pound Ground turkey
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoons Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle each half with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper.
Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors combine. Remove from heat.
Using a fork, scrape the roasted squash flesh into long strands. Transfer the squash strands to a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.
Pour the turkey marinara mixture over the spaghetti squash and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown top.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your Better-Than-Spaghetti Squash Bake!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2551 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 162.0 g | 208% | |
| Saturated Fat | 60.2 g | 301% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 13.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 562 mg | 187% | |
| Sodium | 7029 mg | 306% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 114.4 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.9 g | 85% | |
| Total Sugars | 47.7 g | ||
| Protein | 163.5 g | 327% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2399 mg | 185% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 1763 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
