Description
Looking for a cozy, satisfying, and low-carb dinner idea? This Cheesy Garlic and Herb Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce is your new go-to! It’s a gluten-free, healthy alternative to traditional pasta that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Featuring tender roasted spaghetti squash, savory meat sauce, melted mozzarella, and fragrant herbs, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or easy meal prep. It’s one of those quick dinner recipes that checks every box—hearty, cheesy, comforting, and wholesome. Ideal for anyone seeking healthy dinner ideas or low-carb food options that are actually crave-worthy.
Ingredients
1 medium spaghetti squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
2. Brush the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes.
3. While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté the diced onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes or marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to thicken.
6. Once the squash is tender, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, leaving them in the shell.
7. Spoon the meat sauce over the squash in each shell. Top with shredded mozzarella.
8. Return to oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a crispier top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Swap in ground turkey or plant-based meat for a leaner or vegetarian option.
Use fresh mozzarella slices for extra gooey texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed squash half
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: quick dinner, low carb recipe, cheesy squash, healthy dinner, gluten-free