Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Bake: A Healthy Twist on Spaghetti and Sauce

Sure, let’s dive into making a delightful dish of Spaghetti Squash With Spaghetti Sauce! This recipe promises a burst of flavors, packed with healthy vegetables and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s a perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. 🍝🧀

Spaghetti Squash With Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup diced green pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 can of spaghetti sauce
• Splenda sugar substitute (to taste)
• Garlic powder (to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Squash:

   • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.
   • Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of each half.
   • Place the squash halves cut side down on a microwave-safe dish filled with a bit of water.
   • Microwave on high for about 15-20 minutes until the squash is soft and the strands can be easily separated with a fork. Alternatively, you can steam the squash for the same duration until tender.

2. Saute the Vegetables:

   • While the squash is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms, diced green pepper, and chopped onion to the pan.
   • Saute the vegetables until they begin to soften and develop a golden brown color.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Once the vegetables are tender, pour in the can of spaghetti sauce.
   • Season the sauce with garlic powder and Splenda sugar substitute to taste.
   • Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld the flavors together.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   • Carefully use a fork to scrape the cooked spaghetti squash flesh into strands and transfer them to a baking dish.
   • Pour the prepared spaghetti sauce over the squash strands and gently toss to combine, ensuring that the sauce coats the squash evenly.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the squash and sauce mixture, covering it completely.
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the cheese is perfectly melted and golden brown, remove the dish from the oven.
   • Allow it to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning yourself.
   • Serve the Spaghetti Squash With Spaghetti Sauce hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 162.8
• Fat: 4.8g
• Saturated Fat: 0.7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 957.6mg
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugar: 19.5g
• Protein: 4.5g

Recipe Notes:

• Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein sources to the sauce.
• For a vegan version, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

This Spaghetti Squash With Spaghetti Sauce recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier twist on a classic pasta dish, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Give it a try for your next family dinner or meal prep session, and watch everyone devour it with delight! 🍴😋