Spaghetti squash casserole is a delightful dish that combines the unique texture of spaghetti squash with flavorful ingredients, creating a wholesome meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. As an alternative to traditional pasta casseroles, this recipe allows you to enjoy comfort food while staying on the lighter side. Recognized for its versatility, spaghetti squash is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables. Your family and friends will be delighted to share a meal that feels indulgent but is quite healthy!
Why We Love This Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
This spaghetti squash casserole stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You simply roast the squash, mix it with ground turkey and veggies, then throw it all in the oven to create a bubbly, cheesy masterpiece.
Second, the flavor profile is superb. The combination of the sweet squash with savory ground turkey, aromatic spices, and gooey cheese generates a warmth that makes this dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Finally, this recipe is more than just comforting; it’s loaded with nutrients. With lean turkey, fresh vegetables, and modest cheese, you can feel good about nourishing your body without sacrificing flavor. This casserole perfectly meets the needs of anyone looking for a healthy and appetizing meal.
Ingredients about Spaghetti Squash Casserole
To bring this wonderful spaghetti squash casserole to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 small/medium spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds)
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, cored and diced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 can (14.5-ounce) diced tomatoes with Italian spices, drained
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (reduce to 1/4 teaspoon if sensitive to spice)
- 1 cup freshly grated part-skim mozzarella or provolone cheese, divided
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How to Make Spaghetti Squash Casserole Directions
Creating this delectable spaghetti squash casserole is a step-by-step process that you’ll find straightforward and enjoyable.
Preheat the Oven: Start by placing an oven rack in the center and preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roast the Spaghetti Squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast it in the oven for about 30 to 40 minutes or until tender. After roasting, allow it to cool slightly before using a fork to scrape out the strands into a large bowl.
Prepare the Filling: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). While your squash cools, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, diced onion, and bell pepper. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for around 8 minutes or until the turkey is browned and the vegetables are tender.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let this mixture cook until most of the liquid evaporates, approximately 4 minutes.
Mix with Squash: Now, add the spaghetti squash strands into the skillet, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Mix in 1/2 cup of the grated cheese.
Prepare for Baking: Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray, and evenly spread the squash mixture into it. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
Add Cheese Topping: After 20 minutes, take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Return it to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5-10 minutes.
Broil for a Golden Finish: If you wish for a deliciously golden top, turn on the broiler for a few minutes—the cheese will turn a beautiful golden brown incredibly fast, so watch closely!
Garnish and Let Rest: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven. Garnish generously with fresh parsley or basil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors settle and makes serving easy.
How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Casserole
When it comes to serving your spaghetti squash casserole, simplicity is key. You can dish it out straight from the baking dish, or for a more elegant touch, serve it in individual portions. Each serving offers a hearty scoop of spaghetti squash, ground turkey, veggies, and gooey cheese that’s bound to please everyone.
Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Some people enjoy a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce, making for a comforting dining experience. Fragrant herbs, like basil or parsley, not only add a pop of color but also an extra flavor boost.
This casserole is also extremely versatile. You can adjust the serving size based on your gathering—whether you are cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe scales easily. Simply multiply the ingredients and use a larger baking dish to accommodate your needs.
Expert Tips: Spaghetti Squash Casserole
To ensure your spaghetti squash casserole comes out perfectly every single time, consider these expert tips:
Selecting the Right Squash: When choosing spaghetti squash, look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a smooth, stiff rind. They should also have a uniform yellow color.
Don’t Rush Cooking: Spending the right amount of time cooking your ground turkey and vegetables enhances the flavor and texture. Make sure the turkey is fully cooked before combining it with the spaghetti squash.
Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and provolone are classics for this dish, feel free to experiment with cheeses that melt well and fit your taste. Gruyère or even a sprinkle of goat cheese can add delicious flavor twists.
Customize Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. If you opt for a milder dish, feel free to skip the red pepper altogether.
Slightly Undercook the Vegetables: If you like your vegetables with a bit of crunch, consider slightly undercooking them in the skillet. They’ll continue to soften while baking in the casserole.
How to Store Spaghetti Squash Casserole
After enjoying your spaghetti squash casserole, you may find yourself with leftovers. Thankfully, storing it is quite straightforward.
In the Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it should stay fresh for up to 3 to 5 days.
For Longer Storage: If you want to store your casserole for a more extended period, consider freezing it. Allow the dish to cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Variation of Spaghetti Squash Casserole
The beauty of spaghetti squash casserole lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:
Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, swap the ground turkey for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, and beans. You can include vegan cheese to keep it dairy-free.
Cheesy Broccoli Addition: Mix in steamed broccoli florets for added nutrition and flavor. The broccoli pairs wonderfully with the cheese and turkey.
Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor. Replace the Italian seasoning with a mix of oregano and lemon zest.
Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning instead of Italian flavors, then top with cheddar cheese for a Mexican-inspired dish.
FAQ Section
What is a spaghetti squash casserole?
A spaghetti squash casserole is a baked dish that combines cooked spaghetti squash with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and cheese, all baked together for a comforting meal.
Is spaghetti squash healthy?
Yes, spaghetti squash is a low-calorie, low-carb vegetable that provides many nutrients, including vitamins A and C. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional pasta for those looking to reduce carbs or increase their vegetable intake.
Can I make spaghetti squash casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your casserole a day in advance. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How can I enhance the flavor of my spaghetti squash casserole?
You can enhance the flavor by including aromatic herbs and spices such as garlic, Italian seasonings, fresh basil, or even a splash of lemon juice.
Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey with chicken, lean beef, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Dish
- Skillet
- Baking Sheet
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 small/medium spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
- 1 small red onion diced
- 1 piece green bell pepper cored and diced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5-ounce, with Italian spices, drained)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasonings (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (reduce to 1/4 tsp if sensitive to spice)
- 1 cup freshly grated part-skim mozzarella or provolone cheese divided
- As needed chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) with an oven rack in the center.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Allow the squash to cool slightly, then scrape out the strands into a large bowl.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, diced onion, and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes until the turkey is browned and vegetables are tender.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until most liquid evaporates, about 4 minutes.
- Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Incorporate 1/2 cup of the grated cheese.
- Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray and spread the squash mixture evenly into it. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake until melted and bubbly, about 5-10 minutes.
- For a golden finish, broil for a few minutes, watching closely.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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