DESCRIPTION OF HEARTY HARVEST SPAGHETTI SQUASH BAKE
“Hearty Harvest Spaghetti Squash Bake” transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, low-carb casserole perfect for any family dinner. Featuring roasted spaghetti squash layered with a savoury meat sauce and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. It is ideal for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional pasta bakes without sacrificing flavour.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 10
CUISINE
- Italian, American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Bake, Sauté, Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Family Reunion, Fall, Winter, Potluck, Weeknight Dinner
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Low Fat, Low Cholesterol, High Fibre, Healthy
DISH TYPE
- Casserole / Gratin
INGREDIENTS FOR HEARTY HARVEST SPAGHETTI SQUASH BAKE
- 2 ripe spaghetti squash
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound lean ground beef, 95% lean
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 packet Stevia
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 3 Tbsp basil, chopped (divided)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fiber: 4g
PREPARATION FOR HEARTY HARVEST SPAGHETTI SQUASH BAKE
- Prepare the Squash: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the spaghetti squash and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for 40 minutes.
- Cook the Meat Sauce: While the squash cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add ground beef, browning it thoroughly. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti squash into strands. Layer half in the bottom of a large casserole dish. Top with half the meat sauce and half the cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped basil before serving.
PREP TIME
- 15 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 1 hour 25 minutes
TIPS FOR HEARTY HARVEST SPAGHETTI SQUASH BAKE
- Ensure the spaghetti squash is tender before scraping it into strands to mimic the texture of pasta.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
VARIATIONS
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses, such as ricotta or smoked provolone, for varied flavours.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR HEARTY HARVEST SPAGHETTI SQUASH BAKE
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavours of a traditional Italian meal with a healthy twist, perfect for those chilly evenings when comfort food is in order. Enjoy “Hearty Harvest Spaghetti Squash Bake” as a delightful centrepiece for your next family gathering.