Forget your carb-heavy pasta dishes! This recipe for Italian Stuffed Spaghetti Squash offers a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly satisfying alternative. Spaghetti squash, naturally stringy when cooked, perfectly mimics the texture of pasta, providing a delightful base for a hearty and flavorful Italian filling. Imagine tender squash brimming with a rich blend of savory sausage, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection. It's a complete meal in one, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This vibrant and healthy twist on a classic comfort food is easier to make than you might think. Ready to transform your dinner routine with this amazing recipe? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable Italian Stuffed Spaghetti Squash.
Tools Needed
- Baking pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- Spaghetti squash
- Avocado oil
- Slap Your Mama seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- White onion
- Red bell pepper
- Italian sausage
- Italian seasoning
- Crushed red pepper
- Fennel seeds
- Fresh garlic
- Jar tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Fresh basil
- Water
- Sugar
- Mozzarella cheese
- Smoked Gouda cheese (recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
- Remove the insides of the spaghetti squash and discard them.
- Drizzle avocado oil on the squash, season with Slap Your Mama seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Place the squash cut-side down in an oiled baking pan and bake until tender.
Step 2. Sauté the Italian Sausage and Vegetables
- Dice white onion and red bell peppers into small cubes.
- Heat oil in a pan, add Italian sausage, and break it down finely.
- Add peppers, onions, and seasonings (Slap Your Mama, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper, and fennel seeds). Sauté.
- Add fresh garlic and mix. Stir in jar tomato sauce and cook down.
- Add tomato paste, fresh basil, and more seasonings. Add water and sugar; cook for a few minutes.
Step 3. Stuff and Bake the Squash
- Once the spaghetti squash is tender, fill it with the cooked mixture.
- Top with mozzarella cheese (or smoked Gouda), and bake until golden brown.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Make sure to season generously!
- Smoked Gouda cheese is highly recommended for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Italian sausage is traditional, but you can substitute with chicken sausage, chorizo, or even leave it out for a vegetarian version.
2. How do I know when the spaghetti squash is cooked?
The squash is done when you can easily pierce it with a fork. It should be tender and easily shreddable.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the squash the day before. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
This Italian Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pasta dishes. The combination of tender squash, savory filling, and melted cheese creates a truly comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make recipe tonight!