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Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Imagine the rich flavors of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese melding together with tender spaghetti squash and juicy meatballs. This dish is not only hearty but also a healthier alternative to traditional pasta casseroles. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
The name of the recipe: Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 0.25 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut spaghetti squash in half, remove seeds, and bake cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes.
- While squash is baking, mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
- In a skillet, cook meatballs until browned on all sides.
- Once squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands into a casserole dish.
- Add meatballs and marinara sauce to the dish, mix well.
- Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
What You Will Need
Read more: Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole
Spaghetti squash: Acts as a low-carb alternative to pasta, providing a unique texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the sauce.
Ground beef: Adds protein and richness, forming the base of the meatballs which are the heart of the casserole.
Marinara sauce: Brings a tangy, savory element that ties all the ingredients together with its rich tomato flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that enhances the overall taste.
Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella and adds depth to the dish.
Egg: Binds the meatball mixture, ensuring they hold together during cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Provide structure to the meatballs, helping them stay firm and absorb flavors.
Garlic: Infuses the meatballs with a robust, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a classic, savory flavor profile to the meatballs and sauce.
Tools and Instruments Needed
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole Recipe
- Baking sheet: Essential for baking the spaghetti squash halves evenly and preventing any mess in the oven.
- Skillet: Needed to brown the meatballs, ensuring they are cooked through and have a nice crust.
- Casserole dish: Used to combine the spaghetti squash, meatballs, and marinara sauce, then bake everything together.
- Fork: Handy for scraping out the spaghetti squash strands, turning the squash into noodle-like pieces.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, and seasoning to form the meatballs.
Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 0.25 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut spaghetti squash in half, remove seeds, and bake cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes.
- While squash is baking, mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
- In a skillet, cook meatballs until browned on all sides.
- Once squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands into a casserole dish.
- Add meatballs and marinara sauce to the dish, mix well.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes:
Read more: Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Keywords:
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare meatballs and bake spaghetti squash as directed.
- Combine meatballs, squash, and marinara sauce in a casserole dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble the casserole as directed but don’t bake.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.
- Label with date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Using spaghetti squash instead of pasta not only makes this dish gluten-free but also adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory meatballs.
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