The first time I tasted a spaghetti squash casserole, I was instantly enchanted by the way its rich, cheesy layers hugged my palate while confirming that comfort food doesn’t have to be loaded with carbs. Now, every time the weather shifts to a cooler tone, I find myself reaching for this Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Casserole recipe—a heartwarming, low-carb delight that brings smiles at the dinner table!
Picture this: A golden, bubbling casserole that showcases the strengths of homemade cooking—satisfying yet guilt-free. This dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef, Italian sausage, and a creamy blend of cheeses with ribbons of spaghetti squash, making every bite a comforting embrace. Whether you’re in search of a nourishing family meal or a stellar dish to impress guests, this keto-friendly casserole perfectly balances indulgence with nutrition. Join me in exploring this deliciously simple recipe that transforms a classic favorite into an everyday low-carb masterpiece!
Why is Spaghetti Squash Casserole low carb so beloved?
Satisfaction in Every Bite: This Spaghetti Squash Casserole (Low Carb) is packed with hearty flavors that satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet.
Creamy, Cheesy Layers: The rich blend of ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates irresistible creaminess that will make you forget you’re indulging in a healthy meal.
Versatile & Easy to Customize: Swap in different proteins or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition—this dish adapts beautifully to your taste preferences!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is sure to impress everyone, from kids to guests needing low-carb options.
Quick Prep Time: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up quickly, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknight dinners.
Dive into the world of comfort food with this scrumptious casserole and savor every delicious moment!
Spaghetti Squash Casserole Ingredients
For the Base
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dish and is perfect for sautéing. Substitute with avocado oil if preferred.
- Ground Beef – Provides a hearty base and rich flavor; use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Italian Sausage – Introduces spice and depth to your casserole; swap for ground sausage or omit for a vegetarian delight.
- Onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and flavor; shallots or leeks can work as alternatives.
- Minced Garlic – Imparts aromatic qualities; fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
- Italian Seasoning – Offers a classic blend of herbs for Italian flair; a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme can also do the trick.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds optional heat; adjust to taste or omit for a milder dish.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; use to your preference.
- Marinara Sauce – Acts as the sauce base; choose store-bought or homemade for richer taste.
For the Cheesy Filling
- Ricotta Cheese – Contributes creaminess and richness; cottage cheese can be substituted for a lighter option.
- Cream Cheese (softened) – Adds luxurious texture; no direct substitute, but other soft cheeses may work well.
- Chopped Parsley – Offers freshness and a pop of color; basil can be a delightful substitute.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor with a salty kick; try nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative.
For the Pasta Alternative
- Pre-cooked Spaghetti Squash – A fantastic low-carb pasta alternative; roast beforehand for convenience.
- Arrowroot Powder (optional) – Helps thicken sauce and manage excess moisture from the squash.
- Grated Mozzarella Cheese – Melts delightfully to form a gooey topping; fresh mozzarella is a wonderful alternative.
For Garnish
- Parsley or Basil – Enhances presentation and adds aromatic freshness to the dish.
How to Make Spaghetti Squash Casserole
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat a 9×13 inch casserole dish with extra-virgin olive oil to ensure easy release.
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until they’re halfway browned. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
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Add Flavor: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and let it gently simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the grated Parmesan for an extra layer of richness.
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Layer the Casserole: In your prepared casserole dish, layer half of the roasted spaghetti squash, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheesy mixture. Repeat this layering until all components are used.
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Top with Cheese: Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated mozzarella cheese on top. Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
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Rest Before Serving: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before you dig in; this will help everything set nicely.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil for a refreshing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Spaghetti Squash Casserole
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Roasting Time: Ensure the spaghetti squash is tender by roasting it for 25-30 minutes. A fork should easily pierce through the flesh; if not, return it to the oven for longer.
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Layering Technique: To prevent the casserole from being watery, always layer the squash and mixture properly. Ensure you have even layers of spaghetti squash, meat sauce, and cheese mixture for balanced flavor.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining cheese mixtures, avoid overmixing the ricotta and cream cheese. This helps maintain the creamy texture without making it too dense.
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Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover with foil to complete cooking without burning.
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Storage Tips: This Spaghetti Squash Casserole is perfect for meal prep but ensure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating. It can last for 3-4 days in the fridge and is great for reheating!
Storage Tips for Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Fridge: Store your Spaghetti Squash Casserole in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2-3 months. This preserves its delicious flavor and texture for another day.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick servings.
Airtight Storage: Ensure your container is airtight to prevent moisture from ruining the last bites of this comforting, low-carb dish!
What to Serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Casserole?
Enhance your dinner experience by pairing this comforting dish with sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy exterior with a soft, buttery inside creates a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole, making every bite a treat.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mixture of greens and vibrant veggies brings a crisp freshness to the table, balancing the casserole’s richness beautifully. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for extra zing.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provide an earthy sweetness that rounds out the meal’s flavor profile. Toss with olive oil and herbs before roasting for a flavorful side.
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Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, this low-carb alternative mirrors the dish while adding a subtle hint of nuttiness. It’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce!
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and savory, steamed broccoli adds vitamin-packed goodness and a touch of color, elevating the entire dinner plate.
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Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a fun, fresh twist that harmonizes with the casserole’s flavors while keeping your meal low-carb.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay brings acidity and fruitiness that cuts through the richness, enhancing every savory bite of your casserole.
Whether you choose one or two sides or plan a spread, each of these pairings will ensure your Spaghetti Squash Casserole is the star of the meal!
Spaghetti Squash Casserole Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this casserole with delicious twists that suit your taste!
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey to create a leaner dish without sacrificing flavor.
- Spinach Boost: Add fresh spinach to the meat mixture for an extra dose of nutrients and vibrant color.
- Zucchini Noodles: Incorporate spiralized zucchini in place of half the spaghetti squash for added texture and flavor diversity.
- Dairy-Free: Use cashew cheese instead of ricotta and cream cheese for a creamy, dairy-free delight that’s still indulgent.
- Higher Heat: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper along with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that will ignite your palate.
- Veggie Delight: Toss in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to enrich the casserole with added flavors and vegetables.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment by using aged cheddar instead of mozzarella for a sharper taste experience that melds beautifully with the other flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Replace parsley with fresh basil or oregano for a fragrant twist that enhances the Italian essence of the dish.
With these variations, you can create endless possibilities while enjoying the comfort of this beloved casserole!
Make Ahead Options
These Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Casserole preparations shine for busy home cooks seeking time-saving solutions! You can sauté the meat and prepare the marinara sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate separately to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the cheese filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. For the best results, layer the casserole as described, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for delicious, hot, and cheesy comfort food perfection!
Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of spaghetti squash should I use?
Choose a firm spaghetti squash with a smooth, unblemished exterior. Look for one that feels heavy for its size, and avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as these may indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftovers of the casserole?
Store your spaghetti squash casserole in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Can I freeze the spaghetti squash casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole first in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It will keep well for 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What if the casserole is too watery?
If you find your spaghetti squash casserole a bit watery, it may be due to excess moisture in the squash. To prevent this, make sure to roast the squash until fully tender, allowing it to drain excess water before layering it into the casserole. You might also want to add a teaspoon of arrowroot powder to the cheese mixture for extra thickening.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the million-dollar spaghetti squash casserole is inherently gluten-free since it uses spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta. Just be sure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious, celiac-friendly meal.
Can I modify this recipe for dairy-free diets?
Certainly! For a dairy-free version, substitute ricotta and cream cheese with cashew cheese or a similar nut-based alternative. Nutritional yeast works wonderfully to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Irresistible Spaghetti Squash Casserole Low Carb Comfort Food
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat a 9x13 inch casserole dish with extra-virgin olive oil to ensure easy release.
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until they're halfway browned. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
- Add Flavor: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and let it gently simmer for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the grated Parmesan.
- Layer the Casserole: In your prepared casserole dish, layer half of the roasted spaghetti squash, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheesy mixture. Repeat this layering until all components are used.
- Top with Cheese: Finish with a sprinkle of grated mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.