Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting yet wholesome pasta dish without turning to traditional noodles, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is here to delight your taste buds and satisfy your kitchen creativity. This recipe takes the naturally tender strands of roasted spaghetti squash and transforms them into a luxuriously cheesy, meaty casserole that feels indulgent while keeping things light. Packed with savory ground beef or Italian sausage, a blend of creamy cheeses, and aromatic Italian seasonings, this dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that will have you wondering why you ever stuck to ordinary pasta. Trust me, once you try this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, it will become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by this dish’s rich layers—each ingredient is simple, fresh, and plays a crucial role in bringing the Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta to life. From the tender squash strands to the creamy cheese blend and zingy marinara, every component contributes color, flavor, and comforting texture.

• 1 large spaghetti squash: The star vegetable that creates the perfect noodle alternative, roasting up tender and slightly sweet.
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds a hearty, savory base packed with seasoning and meaty goodness.
• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free for keto): Brings bright tomato flavor and moisture to the dish.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts depth with aromatic garlic tones without overpowering the palate.
• ½ tsp onion powder: Compliments the garlic and enhances the meat sauce.
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning: A classic herb mix that ties the whole sauce together with a fragrant touch.
• Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: Adds creamy richness and a subtle tang.
• ½ cup cream cheese (softened): Gives the casserole a smooth, velvety texture.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that gooey, irresistible cheesiness.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty finish on top.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for roasting the squash and adding a silky finish.
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish: Provides a fresh, vibrant note that brightens each bite.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds—it’s like prepping little veggie boats. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil to promote a beautifully roasted exterior. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet, then roast for 30 to 40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork. When done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into noodle-like strands and set aside. This step creates the perfect “pasta” base that’s both light and satisfying.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce

While the squash roasts, warm a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked. Once browned, drain any excess grease for a leaner finish. Stir in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld into a rich, savory sauce. This hearty meat sauce will serve as the luscious topping to your layered pasta casserole.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese if you prefer lighter texture), softened cream cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. This creamy blend forms the indulgent, dreamy middle layer that makes the Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta irresistibly luscious. The combination ensures each bite is smooth and cheesy without being overpowering.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grab a greased baking dish and start by layering half of the spaghetti squash strands evenly on the bottom. Carefully spread the cheese mixture over the squash layer, then top with the remaining squash. Pour the meat sauce over the top, spreading it out to cover completely. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly across the surface for that bubbling, golden crust you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake the assembled casserole uncovered at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the cheese is melted thoroughly. For an extra-special finish, switch to the broiler and brown the top for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s golden and slightly crisp—watch it closely to avoid burning! Once out of the oven, garnish generously with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of color and fragrant freshness. Serve hot and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are ideal garnishes because they brighten the rich, cheesy casserole with a pop of color and fresh flavor. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving can also add a pleasing salty bite that complements the creamy layers well. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can awaken the palate beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is quite rich and filling, pair it with crisp green salads tossed in light lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for balance. Garlic breadsticks or a warm focaccia can also be delightful companions if you want to keep things cozy and classic. These sides offer complementary textures and freshness, rounding out the meal wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned servings that feel extra special. Or, layer the pasta and sauce in a clear glass dish so the vibrant colors and layers peek enticingly from the sides—this always impresses guests! You can also serve the spaghetti squash strands directly on plates with dollops of the cheesy meat sauce artfully spooned on top for a rustic, casual vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of this mouthwatering Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious second-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain optimal texture and taste.

Freezing

This dish freezes very well, making it a perfect prep-ahead meal. Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results before reheating. Freezing may slightly soften the texture of the squash, but the hearty cheese and meat sauce remain deliciously intact.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, uncovered, until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely, but the oven method better preserves the casserole’s cheesy topping texture. Add a splash of water or marinara if it seems dry to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives, and even plant-based crumbles can work if you prefer a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s flavorful.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta keto-friendly?

Yes, especially if you use a sugar-free marinara sauce. The spaghetti squash is low carb, and the rich cheeses plus meat provide satisfying fat and protein, making it an excellent option for keto diets.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

Don’t worry! Cottage cheese is a perfect substitute that offers a similar creamy texture and mild flavor. You can also blend cream cheese with a bit of sour cream to mimic ricotta’s creaminess if needed.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

While this dish is beloved for its cheesy layers, you can experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives and vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be different but can still be delicious with the right products.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is perfectly roasted?

When the squash is fork-tender and you can easily scrape out long, noodle-like strands, it’s perfectly cooked. The skin should be browned but not burnt, and the flesh should shred with little resistance.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you’ll give the Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta a try because it truly is a game changer in the realm of comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the cheesy, savory goodness of your favorite pasta casserole while sneaking in nutritious vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe stands out as an absolute keeper. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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