Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 small spaghetti squash
1-1/2 to 2 pounds
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
- 1 garlic clove
minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash cut side down in a baking dish and add water. Cover and bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the squash is easily pierced with a fork. Remove the squash from the oven. Once the squash is cool enough to handle, scoop out the strands and separate them with a fork. Lower the oven temperature to 350°.
- 2
In a skillet, saute the beef, onion, red pepper and garlic until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender, five to seven minutes. Then, drain the grease. Stir in the tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper and squash. Cook and stir until the liquid is absorbed, another one to two minutes.
- 3
Transfer the contents of the skillet to an ungreased 1-1/2-quart baking dish. Bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes. Remove the casserole from the oven, then garnish the top with cheese and fresh parsley. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole
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About this Recipe
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that satisfies without feeling heavy? This Spaghetti Squash Casserole brings together wholesome ingredients for a family-friendly dish that's both flavorful and fulfilling.
This recipe works by combining the natural, delicate strands of spaghetti squash with a robust, savory ground beef mixture. Infused with aromatic onion, sweet red pepper, and garlic, then brightened by diced tomatoes and fragrant oregano, it creates a perfectly balanced meal. The simple addition of mozzarella or cheddar cheese ensures a creamy, irresistible finish that makes every bite a pleasure.
Prepare to enjoy a casserole where tender, pasta-like strands of spaghetti squash provide a delicate and slightly sweet foundation. Each forkful delivers a rich, savory blend of seasoned ground beef and vibrant vegetables, all harmoniously united by the tangy tomatoes and subtle herb notes of oregano. A generous layer of melted, bubbly cheese on top provides a warm, gooey texture, making this dish wonderfully satisfying and deeply comforting. It’s a hearty meal that feels light yet substantial, perfect for a cozy evening.
Customization & Variations
This casserole is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. While ground beef is specified, you could easily swap it for ground turkey or even a plant-based ground substitute for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses, such as a sharp cheddar for more tang or a blend of Italian cheeses for added depth. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like finely diced zucchini or spinach if you have them on hand.
This Spaghetti Squash Casserole makes for an excellent weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. Serve it as a stand-alone main dish, perhaps alongside a simple green salad to complete your plate.