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Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 30 reviews

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is a low-carb, comforting casserole that combines tender roasted spaghetti squash strands with a rich, savory meat sauce and creamy cheese layers. It’s perfect for those seeking a delicious alternative to traditional pasta dishes, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures with a cheesy golden crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 large spaghetti squash

Meat & Dairy

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
  • ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pantry Items & Seasonings

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free for keto)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out all the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Once done, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands and set them aside.
  2. Cook the Meat Sauce: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook and crumble the meat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
  3. Mix the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese with softened cream cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy, forming the cheese layer base.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread half of the roasted spaghetti squash evenly on the bottom. Layer the cheese mixture over the squash, then top with the remaining spaghetti squash strands. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.
  5. Bake & Serve: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly. For a golden and slightly crisp cheese topping, switch to the broil setting and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving hot.

Notes

  • For a keto-friendly version, use sugar-free marinara sauce and opt for ground beef or Italian sausage without added sugars or fillers.
  • You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter texture, or use all ricotta for creamier results.
  • Spaghetti squash varies in size; adjust roasting time as needed to ensure the flesh is tender.
  • If preferred, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
  • This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated, then baked before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti squash casserole, low carb pasta, keto pasta alternative, cheesy casserole, Italian sausage recipe, healthy comfort food

Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/million-dollar-spaghetti-squash-pasta-recipe/