Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty meal that feels indulgent without the guilt, this Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe is the perfect solution. Imagine tender spaghetti squash strands mingling with savory Italian sausage and creamy cheeses, all baked until bubbling and golden. It’s a warm, comforting dish that not only delivers big on flavor but also sneaks in some nutritious veggies, making it a winner for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Once you try this, it’s bound to become one of your favorite weeknight meals that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe plays a crucial role, from the sweet, tender squash to the rich, melty cheeses and the aromatic herbs that bring it all together. These simple ingredients combine to balance flavor, texture, and color perfectly, making the dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
- 2 medium spaghetti squash: The star of the show, providing those light “noodles” that soak up all the flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the squash roast to tender perfection.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every flavor profile.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk, no casing): Brings savory, spiced meatiness that pairs beautifully with the squash.
- 1/2 cup onion, diced: Adds sweetness and subtle crunch when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish that aromatic, irresistible base.
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce: Introduces tangy, herby tomato flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds a luscious texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Provides gooey, melty goodness both inside and on top.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami with its nutty, salty punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional): Fresh herbaceous notes that lighten the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the sausage perfectly.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Placing the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps the flesh roast evenly. After 40-45 minutes, the flesh should be tender and easy to shred with a fork. This roasting step is crucial because it transforms the squash into those delicate strands that mimic pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Mixture
While your squash roasts, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked—about 7 to 8 minutes. Then stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking another 2 to 3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. These aromatics build a deeply flavorful base that will elevate every bite.
Step 3: Combine with Sauces and Cheese
Next, stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and fresh basil if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined. This sauce blend is what brings creamy, cheesy richness to the dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Stuffed Squash
Once the spaghetti squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape out the flesh into long strands. Spoon half of the sausage mixture into each squash half, mixing it slightly into the squash strands so flavors meld together. Then top each with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese, which will melt beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Melty and Delicious
Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven, baking them for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese on top is golden, melted, and bubbling. Let them cool just a few minutes before serving. This final step creates that irresistible cheesy crust that makes the dish so crave-worthy.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley can add a pop of color and a fresh brightness to the rich dish. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top right after baking also adds a lovely finishing touch. These simple garnishes help make every serving feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some roasted seasonal vegetables to keep the meal balanced. You can also serve garlic bread on the side if you want something to soak up the delicious leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve each squash half as an individual “bowl” for a rustic and charming presentation. For a fun twist, try scooping some filling out and placing it in ramekins topped with mozzarella for mini baked dishes. These creative presentations turn a simple dinner into a standout meal that guests will admire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for even tastier leftovers. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain texture and freshness.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the stuffed squash but bake only until the cheese melts and bubbles, then cool completely. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen leftovers should be used within 2 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and cheese is bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. You can also gently reheat in the microwave covered with a microwave-safe lid, but the oven will give you the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives, though you might want to add extra seasoning to match the bold flavors of Italian sausage. Saute some Italian herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes with the meat to keep that signature taste.
Is spaghetti squash difficult to prepare?
Not at all! While it takes a bit more time roasting than boiling pasta, it requires minimal hands-on effort. Just remember to cut carefully and roast until tender, then the strands pull apart effortlessly with a fork.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. You can swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and walnuts for a similar texture and umami richness. The cheeses and marinade sauce will still shine beautifully.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce on hand?
You can substitute with your favorite tomato sauce or even a chunky homemade salsa. Just adjust the seasoning to keep that balanced tomato-herb flavor that complements the sausage and squash so well.
How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done roasting?
The best test is to poke the flesh with a fork—it should be tender and easily scrape into noodle-like strands. If it resists or feels tough, let it roast a bit longer, checking every 5 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Its perfect blend of hearty sausage, melted cheese, and tender squash makes it a satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Give it a try for your next dinner—it might just become your new favorite weeknight go-to!
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Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and hearty low-carb meal featuring roasted spaghetti squash filled with a savory Italian sausage mixture, ricotta, and mozzarella cheeses. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it a perfect comforting dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Squash
- 2 medium spaghetti squash
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sausage Filling
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk sausage, not in casing)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided from 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (remaining half for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the inside of each squash half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pulls apart into strands with a fork.
- Cook the Sausage: While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Mix in Sauce and Cheeses: Stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and fresh basil if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until heated through and well combined.
- Prepare the Squash “Noodles”: Once the spaghetti squash is roasted and cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into strands, creating “noodles.”
- Stuff the Squash: Spoon half of the sausage mixture into each squash half, mixing the sausage filling into the squash strands. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti squash to keep the strands firm and noodle-like.
- If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can be used but add it during cooking to develop the flavor.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before the final bake step; just add a few extra minutes when baking to heat through.
- For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
