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In the quest for healthier eating, spaghetti squash has emerged as a star ingredient, captivating the hearts of health enthusiasts and food lovers alike. This unique vegetable, when cooked, separates into strands that mimic traditional pasta, offering a delightful and nutritious alternative. Among the myriad of spaghetti squash recipes, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta stands out for its rich, hearty flavors and simple preparation. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a versatile option that caters to a variety of dietary preferences, making it perfect for those following low-carb, gluten-free, or even meatless diets.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Discover the delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, a healthy twist on a classic favorite! This nutritious dish features spaghetti squash, a low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta, paired with a hearty meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it's versatile enough for various diets. Learn how to make this satisfying meal that's packed with flavor and goodness, and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium spaghetti squash

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter alternative)

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for the finishing touch

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Carefully halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and fibrous pulp. Drizzle the inside of each half with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

      Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender enough to be shredded with a fork. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before using a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands and set aside.

        Cook the Beef: While the squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then incorporate the ground beef, cooking until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

          Make the Sauce: To the skillet, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, and chopped basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

            Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded spaghetti squash with the meat sauce. Stir in ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing gently until fully integrated.

              Assemble the Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Evenly distribute the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, followed by a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

                  Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. For a fresh touch, garnish with additional chopped basil if desired. Serve warm and indulge in your Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8