Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce
A healthy and hearty Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce recipe that is low-carb, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. This dish features tender roasted spaghetti squash strands topped with a rich, herbed meat sauce, offering a nutritious Italian-inspired comfort meal perfect for weeknights or meal prepping.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Squash
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, then place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Cook the Meat Sauce: While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently to marry the flavors.
- Shred the Squash: Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Transfer the strands into serving bowls or plates.
- Combine and Serve: Top the shredded spaghetti squash with the warm meat sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy this wholesome, comforting meal.
Notes
- Roast the squash cut-side down for tender, evenly cooked strands.
- Drain excess fat after browning the meat for a leaner sauce.
- Season gradually to avoid overpowering the sauce.
- Use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Let the meat sauce simmer to deepen flavor and improve texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: spaghetti squash, meat sauce, low carb, healthy dinner, Italian, quick recipe, weeknight meal, gluten free