Teresa's Recipes
Enhanced Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Spaghetti Squash Casserole, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. With its tender, spaghetti-like strands of squash mingling with juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a medley of cheeses, this casserole is not only healthy but also packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it brings the essence of home-cooked goodness to your table. Spaghetti squash, once a favorite of Italian cuisine, has become a beloved staple in healthier diets, offering a low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients
- 1 large Spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium, diced Onion
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 can (14.5 oz), drained Diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil) Fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 cup, shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Add the squash strands to the skillet and gently stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
- Transfer the squash mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your healthy, delicious casserole!
Tips
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked ground turkey or chicken.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a more colorful dish.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.