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Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 29 reviews

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is a healthy and flavorful low-carb alternative to traditional spaghetti. This dish features tender roasted spaghetti squash tossed with a rich marinara-simmered ground beef sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and a blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting meal perfect for families and those seeking a gluten-free pasta option.

Ingredients

Scale

Squash

  • 1 large spaghetti squash

Meat Sauce

  • 1/2 lb lean ground beef
  • 24 oz marinara sauce

Cheese Mixture

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

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, then scoop out and discard the seeds and membranes.
  2. Bake the squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down in a baking dish. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the flesh is fork-tender. Remove and let cool for 10 minutes, then use a fork to shred and loosen the strands.
  3. Cook the beef and sauce: While the squash bakes, heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for 7-10 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease, then stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Mix the ricotta topping: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, grated Parmesan, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well blended.
  5. Assemble the pasta: Pour about half of the meat sauce over the shredded spaghetti squash and mix well to coat the strands. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella over everything.
  6. Bake for finishing: Return the assembled dish to the oven and bake for 10-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a browned top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
  • Ensure the spaghetti squash is fully cooked and tender for optimal texture.
  • You can substitute marinara sauce with your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce.
  • Optional: garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti squash pasta, low carb pasta, healthy spaghetti recipe, baked spaghetti squash, ground beef pasta, gluten free dinner

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