Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

We love this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta because it’s low in carbs but high in flavor, making it the perfect macro-friendly dinner recipe! This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also versatile enough for family dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. With its rich taste and healthy ingredients, it stands out as a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Low-Carb: Enjoy a satisfying pasta experience without the extra carbs.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella provides a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish can be on your table quickly.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty twist on traditional pasta.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, you will need some essential kitchen tools. These tools help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium skillet
• Fork
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish is crucial for evenly roasting the spaghetti squash until tender.
• Medium skillet: This helps you cook the ground beef thoroughly while allowing you to mix in the marinara sauce seamlessly.
• Fork: You’ll use a fork to shred the spaghetti squash into noodle-like strands for that perfect pasta texture.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining your ricotta cheese and seasonings easily.

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Ingredients

We love this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta because it’s low in carbs, but high in flavor – the perfect macro-friendly dinner recipe!

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 large spaghetti squash

For the Meat Sauce

• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 24 oz marinara sauce

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and discard the seeds and membranes.

Step 2: Bake the Squash

Place the squash halves in a baking dish. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until just fork-tender. Let cool for 10 minutes before using a fork to loosen and shred the squash.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Meanwhile, heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally while breaking up the meat until browned (about 7-10 minutes). Strain any excess grease from the pan, then add marinara sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Pour about half of the marinara sauce mixture over each spaghetti squash half. Use a fork to stir together with shredded squash. Spread the ricotta mixture on top followed by the remaining marinara sauce. Finally, top with remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Final Bake

Transfer to the oven again and bake for another 10-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly with some browning on top. If desired, broil on high for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra browning. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Serving Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta can be as creative as it is delicious. This low-carb dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle of quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the overall taste.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing for crunch and freshness.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing a creamy contrast to the pasta’s texture.

Topped with Additional Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Shave some fresh Parmesan over the top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese can add a tangy flavor that complements the marinara sauce.

How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

To ensure your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use a Ripe Squash: Choose a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This indicates freshness and sweetness.
• Cook Thoroughly: Make sure to cook the spaghetti squash until it is fork-tender. Undercooking can result in tough strands.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when seasoning your marinara sauce. Proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor.
• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to create unique flavor profiles.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the marinara for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side option.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For extra veggies, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a light side dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of the pasta while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta turns out perfectly, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the spaghetti squash to cool for a few minutes after baking helps it become easier to shred. If you skip this step, you may end up burning your hands and struggling with the squash.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking ground beef too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for a nice brown color and remove from heat as soon as it’s fully cooked.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your marinara sauce or ricotta mixture can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before combining ingredients.
• Ignoring cheese distribution: Overloading one area with cheese can lead to uneven melting. Spread your cheeses evenly for a better texture and flavor throughout.
• Not using enough marinara sauce: Insufficient sauce can leave the dish dry. Make sure to use enough marinara for moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta.

Can I use other types of meat in Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb based on your preferences.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta low in carbs?

Absolutely! This dish is low in carbs while still being flavorful, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce their carb intake.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done cooking?

The squash should be fork-tender when baked. You’ll want it soft enough to shred easily with a fork.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives instead.

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is not only delicious but also a versatile dish that appeals to many diets. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different proteins. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress family and friends!