Cheesy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce
A hearty and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, this Cheesy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce is low in calories, high in fiber, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For drizzling and cooking
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or parmesan) Use more for extra cheesiness
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Roasting
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
Cooking Meat and Sauce
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian herbs, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the ground meat of your choice and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
Preparing Spaghetti Strands
- Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands. Mix in the shredded cheese, adding more if desired.
Serving
- Serve the meat sauce over the spaghetti squash strands. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Make sure to cut the squash evenly for uniform cooking. Bake longer for a softer texture. Avoid overcrowding the meat in the skillet for proper browning.
