This Meatball-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe is the perfect balance of indulgence and health. The tender spaghetti squash strands soak up the rich, garlicky marinara sauce, while juicy meatballs add a hearty, satisfying bite. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella and fresh basil, this dish delivers all the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine without the carbs. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a wholesome, flavor-packed meal, this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to prepare, great for meal prep, and sure to be a family favorite. Serve it straight from the squash boats for a fun and rustic presentation that makes dinner both delicious and visually stunning!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 5 pounds total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 ounce)
- 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 12 ounces precooked meatballs (about 12 meatballs), thawed if frozen
- 3/4 cup whole-milk low-moisture shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Place cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the strands pull apart easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- While the squash is roasting, heat a pan over medium heat and add the smashed garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and let them heat through for another 5 minutes.
- Using a fork, scrape the spaghetti squash into strands while keeping the shells intact. Mix the strands with the marinara and meatball mixture.
- Divide the mixture evenly back into the squash halves. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with extra basil and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 375 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Why Choose Spaghetti Squash?
Spaghetti squash has gained popularity as a healthy alternative to pasta due to its unique texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. When cooked, the flesh of the squash turns into long, thin strands that resemble spaghetti, making it a fantastic substitute for traditional noodles. Here are a few reasons why spaghetti squash is a great ingredient to include in your meals:
- Low in Calories and Carbs – Unlike traditional pasta, which is high in refined carbohydrates, spaghetti squash is naturally low in both calories and carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those watching their carb intake.
- Packed with Nutrients – This vegetable is rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as fiber and antioxidants, which support overall health.
- Gluten-Free and Keto-Friendly – Perfect for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a ketogenic diet, spaghetti squash allows you to enjoy your favorite pasta-inspired meals without any grains.
- Versatile and Delicious – Whether you roast it, sauté it, or use it as a base for different sauces, spaghetti squash is a great way to lighten up meals while still keeping them delicious and satisfying.
The Perfect Balance of Comfort and Nutrition
This Meatball-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome eating. While it delivers all the rich, comforting flavors of classic spaghetti and meatballs, it’s much lighter and healthier. The dish is naturally low in refined carbs, yet still loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
The addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese adds a delightful gooeyness and depth of flavor, while fresh basil and red pepper flakes bring brightness and a touch of heat. Together, these ingredients create a hearty, delicious meal that feels like a guilty pleasure but is actually quite nutritious.
A Great Meal for Meal Prep and Family Dinners
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s easy to prepare in advance. Since spaghetti squash and meatballs can both be made ahead of time, you can have this meal ready to assemble and bake whenever you need a quick and satisfying dinner. Simply roast the squash, prepare the meatballs, and store everything in the fridge until you’re ready to put it all together.
For busy families, this dish is a lifesaver. It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table, yet simple enough to make on a weeknight. Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, saucy goodness of these spaghetti squash boats, and they might not even miss the pasta!
How to Customize This Dish
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak it to match your personal preferences or dietary needs:
- Make it Vegetarian – Swap the meatballs for plant-based meatballs or roasted chickpeas to create a meat-free version of this dish.
- Use a Different Protein – Instead of traditional beef meatballs, try turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different twist.
- Change Up the Cheese – While mozzarella and Parmesan are a classic combination, you can try provolone, ricotta, or even goat cheese for a unique flavor.
- Spice it Up – If you love a little heat, add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with spicy arrabbiata sauce for an extra kick.
- Add More Veggies – Feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to increase the nutrient content and make the dish even more filling.
The Ultimate Comfort Food Without the Guilt
We all crave comfort food from time to time, but that doesn’t mean we have to compromise on nutrition. This Meatball-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe proves that you can enjoy cheesy, hearty, and indulgent flavors while still sticking to a healthy lifestyle.
Unlike traditional pasta dishes that leave you feeling sluggish, this meal is light yet incredibly satisfying. It gives you that cozy, home-cooked meal feeling without the heavy carbs or processed ingredients. Plus, the way the spaghetti squash serves as a built-in bowl makes for a fun and unique presentation that looks great on the dinner table.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to pasta, a healthy yet indulgent meal, or simply a delicious way to use up spaghetti squash, this Meatball-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe is the answer. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special occasion.
Try this recipe out, and you’ll discover just how delicious and satisfying healthy eating can be. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that is both nourishing and indulgent proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be unhealthy!