Delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash dish with cheese and herbs

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash is a delicious twist on classic spaghetti dishes. It’s a healthy option that replaces traditional pasta with spaghetti squash, making it great for low-carb diets. This recipe is loaded with flavors from beef, marinara sauce, creamy cheeses, and savory spices. It’s perfect for a comforting family meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and feels like a treat without the guilt!

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients

  • 1 large spaghetti squash
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free for keto)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the spaghetti squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
  3. Once cooked, scrape out the spaghetti-like strands with a fork and set aside.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease, then stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese), cream cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  6. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti squash, followed by the cheese mixture, then the remaining squash. Top with the meat sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden, cheesy top.
  8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash

Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash hot, right from the oven. It can be a main dish or a side dish. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash

  • Make sure the spaghetti squash is fully cooked. It should be tender and easy to scrape into strands.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add more herbs or spices if you like.
  • For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • If you want extra veggies, mix in spinach or diced bell peppers into the cheese mixture.

Variations

  • You can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based meat or mushrooms instead of ground beef.
  • For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cheeses and skip the cream cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different squash?
While spaghetti squash works best for this recipe, butternut squash can be a tasty alternative.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes! Using sugar-free marinara sauce and keeping the ingredients low-carb makes this recipe keto-friendly. Enjoy it without the guilt!