Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Tomatoes and Ground Beef: A Hearty & Nutritious Delight
By Dr. Cindy Tanzar
Welcome back to the blog, food lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a fantastic recipe that’s not only delicious but also a nourishing twist on traditional pasta dishes. Get ready to savor Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Tomatoes and Ground Beef—a delightful combination of hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Why Spaghetti Squash?
If you’re looking to incorporate a healthier alternative into your meals, spaghetti squash is a wonderful option! Low in calories and high in vitamins, it acts as the perfect substitute for pasta while providing a unique texture and subtle sweetness to your dish. The best part? You won’t even miss the pasta once you dive into this flavorful stuffing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get started with the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delicious stuffed spaghetti squash:
- 3 lbs. spaghetti squash
- 2 tsp. coconut or avocado oil (divided)
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1-28 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 green pepper, diced
- Fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
- ½ tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- ¼ tsp. cayenne (optional for heat)
- Optional: Parmesan cheese (for garnishing)
Step-by-Step Directions
Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get cooking!
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will prepare it for the roasting of our spaghetti squash, which is the star of our dish. - Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Using a sharp knife, pierce the flesh several times to allow steam to escape. Brush the cut sides with 1 tsp of oil and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the squash is tender. - Create the Savory Filling
While the squash is roasting, heat a large stainless-steel pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tsp of oil and then add the ground beef, minced garlic, diced onions, and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. - Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, diced green pepper, and season with fresh ground black pepper, thyme, oregano, and cayenne. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. - Stuff the Squash
Once the spaghetti squash is done baking, take it out of the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into “noodles,” leaving the shell intact. Fill each squash half with the savory beef and vegetable mixture. - Add the Finishing Touch
If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the stuffed squash. Then return them to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts. - Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the stuffed squash warm and watch everyone delight in this wholesome dish. Enjoy the comforting, mouthwatering flavors—without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Squash Recipe
This Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is perfect for aspiring home cooks looking for a vibrant, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on taste! It’s versatile, easy to meal prep, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Nutritional Benefits
By using grass-fed beef and an array of fresh vegetables, this recipe is packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious, give this Stuffed Spaghetti Squash a try! It’s a meal that brings warmth, flavor, and nutrition to your table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress family and friends with your culinary skills!
Happy cooking, and until next time, enjoy the flavors of health!
Chef’s Tip: Feel free to customize the stuffing to your liking—add in more veggies or swap the beef for turkey or a vegetarian option!