Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously wholesome twist on a classic Italian favorite? This Crockpot Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Bolognese is not only a feast for the senses but also a guilt-free delight that will leave your taste buds singing! Imagine layers of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and tender spaghetti squash, all bubbling together in your slow cooker for a meal that practically makes itself. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe promises to be a hit at your dinner table. Dive into this mouthwatering dish and discover how easy it is to create a comforting lasagna that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon. Scrape the inside of the squash with a fork to create spaghetti-like strands.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Layer the crockpot with the prepared ingredients: start with a thin layer of meat sauce, then add spaghetti squash strands, followed by ricotta mixture.
- Repeat layering process, ensuring even distribution of ingredients. Top the final layer with shredded mozzarella and remaining parmesan cheese.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 hours, until squash is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow it to set. Serve hot and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a medium-sized spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures a good yield of spaghetti-like strands once cooked.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the meat sauce and ricotta mixture a day in advance. Just layer everything in the crockpot when you're ready to cook!
- Layering Matters: For best results, make sure to layer the ingredients evenly. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
- Garnish for Flavor: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing with chopped basil or parsley before serving. It not only looks beautiful but adds a burst of flavor!
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding a blend of mozzarella and provolone can give it a unique flavor profile.
- Make It Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
