Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

We love this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta because it’s low in carbs but high in flavor – the perfect macro-friendly dinner recipe! This dish is versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions, and its rich taste is sure to impress family and friends. With layers of delicious ingredients, this spaghetti squash pasta stands out as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy a rich and satisfying taste with every bite that will please even the pickiest eaters.
• Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all levels to follow.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use ground beef or swap it out for turkey or lamb based on your preference.
• Family-Friendly: A wholesome meal that the entire family can enjoy together.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful dish, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium skillet
• Fork
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly, ensuring a tender texture.
• Medium skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef, allowing proper browning which adds depth of flavor.
• Fork: Used for shredding the spaghetti squash into noodle-like strands, creating that perfect pasta texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta:

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 large spaghetti squash

For the Meat Sauce

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheesy Mixture

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and discard the seeds and membranes.

Step 2: Bake the Squash

• Place the squash halves in a baking dish.
• Bake squash for 50-60 minutes or until just fork tender.
• Let cool for 10 minutes, then use a fork to loosen and shred the squash into strands.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Meanwhile, heat a medium skillet over medium heat.
* Add the ground beef and cook, stirring and breaking up any large pieces until cooked through and browned, about 7-10 minutes.
* Strain any excess grease from the pan.
* Add marinara sauce and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
* Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesy Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
* Mix ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Pour about half of the marinara sauce mixture over each spaghetti squash half.
* Use a fork to stir the sauce with shredded squash.
* Spread cheesy mixture on top followed by remaining marinara sauce.
* Top with remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake Again

Transfer to oven again:
* Bake for another 10-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned in some spots.
* Broil on high for an additional 2-3 minutes if you prefer extra browning.
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta!

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience! This dish can be served in various ways to delight your family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dinner table.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Garnish each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Sprinkle some finely chopped chives on top for an added oniony taste.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with the richness of the pasta. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for a crisp side.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and balances the hearty pasta.

Accompany with Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted slices of garlic bread on the side to scoop up any sauce left on the plate.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an indulgent treat, top your garlic bread with mozzarella cheese before toasting.

Serve in Individual Portions

• Individual Baking Dishes: For a fancy presentation, serve the spaghetti squash pasta in individual baking dishes. This also makes for easy portion control!

How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Perfecting your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta will make it even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to take your dish from good to great!

• Choose Ripe Squash: Select a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin for optimal flavor.
• Cook Beef Thoroughly: Ensure that the ground beef is browned well; this adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allow the baked pasta to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to slice.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like fontina or gouda into your ricotta mixture for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

To complement your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, consider these delightful side dishes. They are sure to enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli seasoned with lemon juice adds crunch and nutrition.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make an elegant appetizer.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed provides a low-carb alternative that pairs beautifully.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, bell peppers, and lemon vinaigrette offers a protein boost.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies offer robust flavors that complement the pasta well.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw dressed in vinegar-based dressing brings brightness to each bite.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with tomato, basil, and garlic deliver fresh flavors that enhance the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings before mixing.
• Overcooking the squash: Cooking the spaghetti squash too long will make it mushy. Aim for fork-tender texture, usually around 50-60 minutes.
• Using low-quality marinara sauce: A poor-quality sauce can ruin the dish. Choose a flavorful marinara or make your own for the best results.
• Not letting it cool before handling: Immediately trying to shred hot squash can be tricky and dangerous. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes for safer handling.
• Neglecting to mix sauces thoroughly: Failing to properly combine the marinara with the spaghetti squash leads to uneven flavor distribution. Mix well before layering!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, we’ve got answers!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will yield similar results with a lighter flavor.

What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?

Feel free to substitute with cream cheese or cottage cheese if you’re looking for variations on the ricotta.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done cooking?

It’s ready when you can easily pierce it with a fork and it’s tender but not mushy.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta low-carb?

Yes! This recipe is low in carbs compared to traditional pasta dishes, making it a healthy option.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can mix in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is a delightful meal that balances low carbs with high flavor. It’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences—add your favorite vegetables or cheese! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!