THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Meat Sauce Over Spaghetti Squash
This hearty meat sauce pairs perfectly with the light, slightly nutty flavor of spaghetti squash for a comforting and healthy meal. It’s a great way to enjoy classic flavors while keeping things fresh and nutritious.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Meat Sauce Over Spaghetti Squash
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 375°F. Take a whole spaghetti squash and poke about 8 to 10 holes in it with a fork or knife, then place it in a baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for around 25 minutes, or until you can easily pierce it with a knife. Once it’s cool enough to handle, cut it in half and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. Lay the squash halves cut-side down in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and bake for another 25 minutes until the strands pull away easily with a fork.
02
Step 2
While the squash is baking, heat a skillet over medium-high and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off the grease and set the beef aside. In a larger pan, warm some olive oil over medium-low heat, then add your yellow squash, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and all the seasonings—Italian seasoning, basil, black pepper, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook everything together until the veggies are nice and tender, about 10 minutes. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in the cooked beef halfway through. Let it all simmer for another 10 minutes so the flavors come together.
03
Step 3
When the squash is ready, flip the halves over and use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Pile the squash “noodles” onto plates, press them down a bit, and spoon the meat sauce on top. Enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
This dish is a great way to enjoy a classic meat sauce while keeping the meal light and healthy. Using spaghetti squash instead of pasta adds extra fiber and vitamins, making it perfect for those looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.
How to serve
Serve this dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. A slice of garlic bread also pairs nicely for those who enjoy a bit of crunch.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately and reheat when ready to serve.
