Description
A delicious and healthy Spaghetti Squash Parmesan recipe featuring roasted spaghetti squash topped with marinara or bolognese sauce, melted fresh mozzarella, and sprinkled with parmesan and fresh herbs. This low-carb alternative to traditional pasta is flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients
Squash and Seasoning
- 2 whole spaghetti squash
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Sauces and Cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce, or your favorite bolognese
- 1 8 ounce ball fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
- Fresh basil and oregano, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during roasting.
- Prepare the Squash: Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membrane from the center. Brush the cut sides with olive oil to add flavor and help with roasting. Place the squash halves cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the Squash: Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to soften the flesh.
- Flip and Season: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully flip the squash halves over so the cut side faces up. Use a fork to scrape the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands. Season the flesh with salt, pepper, and sprinkle dried basil and oregano evenly over each half.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Fill each squash half with about ½ cup of marinara or bolognese sauce, according to preference. Layer thin slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the sauce. Sprinkle with additional dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Final Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake the squash for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the mozzarella is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the squash from the oven and sprinkle with finely grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil and oregano. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor.
- The amount of olive oil can be adjusted based on preference for richness.
- For a heartier dish, use bolognese sauce instead of marinara.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
