Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly healthy? Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this game-changing Sausage and Spaghetti Squash recipe that will make you forget all about traditional pasta! Imagine twirling your fork into perfectly roasted squash strands, topped with savory Italian sausage and rich marinara sauce - a dish so satisfying, you won't believe it's actually good for you. Whether you're following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a nutritious and flavor-packed meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife, ensuring even halves.
- Scoop out the seeds and inner membranes from the squash halves using a spoon. Drizzle the inside of each half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it into small crumbles using a wooden spoon.
- Cook the sausage for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is completely browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Use a fork to scrape the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands.
- Add marinara sauce to the cooked sausage and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat the sauce thoroughly.
- Transfer the squash strands to serving plates, top with the sausage and marinara mixture, and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy your low-carb, flavorful meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Select a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, unblemished skin for the best texture.
- Roasting Hack: To make cutting the squash easier, microwave it for 3-4 minutes to soften the skin before slicing.
- Maximize Flavor: For extra depth, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Prevent Watery Squash: After roasting, let the squash cool slightly and use a clean kitchen towel to absorb any excess moisture before scraping the strands.
- Cheese Tip: For a richer flavor, use a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can roast the squash and cook the sausage in advance, making this a perfect weeknight meal prep option.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish's presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 65mg
