Spaghetti Squash With Meatballs

If you are looking for a satisfying and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, look no further than spaghetti squash with meatballs. This delicious dish offers all the flavors and textures you love, while being completely paleo-friendly. By replacing regular spaghetti with strands of tender, roasted spaghetti squash, you can indulge in a hearty meal without any of the guilt. Top it off with juicy, homemade meatballs and a savory tomato sauce, and you have a winning combination that will leave you feeling satisfied and on track towards your health goals.

Ingredients

Spaghetti Squash

To make this delicious spaghetti squash with meatballs dish, the first ingredient you will need is a medium-sized spaghetti squash. This unique winter squash variety has a mild flavor and stringy flesh that resembles spaghetti when cooked, making it the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

Ground Meat

Next, you will need ground meat of your choice. You can use beef, pork, turkey, or a combination of these meats to suit your preferences. Ground meat adds protein and a savory flavor to the meatballs, making them hearty and satisfying.

Breadcrumbs

To help bind the meatballs and give them a perfect texture, you will need breadcrumbs. You can use regular breadcrumbs or opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer a gluten-free version of this dish.

Onion and Garlic

To enhance the flavor of both the meatballs and the tomato sauce, you will need minced onion and garlic. These aromatic ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish, creating a deliciously fragrant aroma.

Eggs

Eggs are essential as a binder for the meatballs. They help hold the ingredients together and give the meatballs a tender and moist texture.

Italian Seasoning

To add a burst of flavor to the meatballs, you will need some Italian seasoning. This blend typically includes herbs such as basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, which complement the other ingredients perfectly.

Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is a key component of this dish. You can use homemade or store-bought tomato sauce, whichever you prefer. The rich and tangy sauce adds a delicious layer of flavor to both the meatballs and the spaghetti squash.

Parmesan Cheese

To add a touch of richness and umami to the dish, you will need grated Parmesan cheese. This savory cheese complements the flavors of the meatballs and the tomato sauce, adding a delightful finishing touch.

Fresh Basil

Fresh basil leaves are used as a garnish for this dish. They add a pop of vibrant green color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Preparation

Cooking the Spaghetti Squash

To prepare the spaghetti squash, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and any stringy flesh from the center. Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Bake for approximately 40-50 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape out the flesh, which will separate into long, spaghetti-like strands.

Making the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, minced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter. You can use your hands or a scoop to shape them into equal-sized meatballs.

Cooking the Meatballs

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the meatballs for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning. Once they are cooked through and nicely browned on all sides, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Preparing the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, add the tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors have melded together. If desired, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Assembly

Serving the Spaghetti Squash

To serve the spaghetti squash, place a generous portion of the cooked squash in a bowl or on a plate. The spaghetti-like strands should be nicely separated and ready to be topped with the meatballs and tomato sauce.

Adding the Meatballs and Sauce

Arrange several cooked meatballs on top of the spaghetti squash. Pour a generous amount of the tomato sauce over the meatballs. The rich sauce will not only add flavor but also moisten the dish.

Garnishing with Parmesan and Basil

The final step is to garnish your spaghetti squash with meatballs dish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan cheese over the meatballs and sauce, allowing it to melt slightly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a vibrant and aromatic touch.

Tips and Variations

Using Different Meats

Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat when making the meatballs. You can use a combination of beef and pork for a classic flavor, or opt for turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Each type of meat will bring its unique flavor profile to the dish, allowing you to customize the taste according to your preferences.

Adding Vegetables to Meatballs

To sneak in some extra veggies and boost the nutritional content of the meatballs, consider adding finely diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the meat mixture. These additions not only add flavor and texture but also enhance the overall nutritional value of the dish.

Spicing up the Sauce

If you prefer a spicier tomato sauce, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce while simmering. This will add a subtle kick of heat and an additional layer of flavor to the dish. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash with meatballs is a delicious and satisfying dish that is both healthy and flavorful. By using spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta, you can enjoy all the flavors of a classic Italian dish while reducing your carb intake. The tender and flavorful meatballs, combined with the rich tomato sauce, create a comforting meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. So give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty and nutritious dinner that is sure to become a family favorite!