Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and nutritious dish that features roasted spaghetti squash filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, protein, and spices. This dish is not only healthy but also makes for an impressive presentation, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep!

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 zucchini (diced)
• 1 cup cooked ground turkey or chicken (or plant-based protein for a vegetarian option)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free cheese)
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Stuffed Spaghetti Squash takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 40-50 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Cut and Scoop: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until softened.
2. Add Protein and Seasoning: Stir in the cooked ground turkey or chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Marinara Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in the marinara sauce until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Squash

1. Shred the Squash: Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
2. Combine: In a large bowl, combine the shredded squash with the filling mixture, mixing well.
3. Fill the Squash: Spoon the mixture back into the roasted spaghetti squash halves. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake Again

1. Bake: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Stuffed Spaghetti Squash (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	20g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or a dairy-free alternative.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a flavorful and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its colorful filling and satisfying texture, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal that feels indulgent!