Cecilia Wong, 5th & Glow — 25th February 2025
Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole
This low-carb, comforting casserole is packed with flavor and easy to make! It’s creamy, cheesy, and the perfect way to enjoy spaghetti squash.
Ingredients:
- 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3–4 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey (or ground beef)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 1 cup fresh spinach (or kale), chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Roast the Spaghetti Squash:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes until fork-tender.
Once done, let it cool slightly and use a fork to scrape the squash into strands.
2. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onion until soft (about 3 minutes).
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground turkey, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix the spaghetti squash strands with the cooked meat mixture.
Stir in the ricotta cheese if using.
Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm!
Make It Your Own:
- Swap ground turkey for sausage or shredded chicken, or omit for a meat-free meal.
- Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter version.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Spaghetti Squash Casserole! 🍽️
