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Creamy, Cheesy Squash Pasta

Featured in Heartwarming Main Course Recipes.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta is a nutritious, low-carb comfort food combining spaghetti squash and cheesy layers for a classic pasta twist. Roasted spaghetti squash is layered with rich marinara meat sauce and a creamy cheese mixture, then baked until golden and bubbly. This dish can be prepared ahead of time, customized for vegetarian options, and uses readily available ingredients like marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta. Satisfying and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it's a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy pasta-inspired meals with fewer carbs.
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Rose
Updated on Sat, 15 Mar 2025 14:29:30 GMT
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Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta | lovelylifewithrose.com

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta transforms humble squash into an incredibly satisfying, low-carb comfort dish. Each forkful delivers layers of tender squash strands, seasoned meat sauce, and a rich blend of Italian cheeses that'll make you forget you're eating vegetables. It's a dish that proves healthy alternatives can be just as indulgent as their traditional counterparts.

After making this dish countless times, I've found it's become a family favorite, even converting my pasta-loving teenagers to team spaghetti squash.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Spaghetti Squash: Choose one that feels heavy for its size with firm, cream-colored skin
  • Ground Meat: 80/20 ground beef provides the best flavor, though Italian sausage adds extra depth
  • Ricotta Cheese: Full-fat version creates the creamiest texture
  • Marinara Sauce: Use one with minimal added sugars for authentic Italian flavor
  • Mozzarella: Fresh, whole milk mozzarella melts beautifully and creates the perfect cheese pull

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Squash Preparation (30-40 minutes):
Cut lengthwise, being extra careful with a sharp knife
Remove seeds thoroughly for better texture
Season generously before roasting for enhanced flavor
Step 2: Meat Sauce Creation (15 minutes):
Brown meat first before adding aromatics
Let sauce simmer to develop deeper flavors
Step 3: Assembly Process (10 minutes):
Layer ingredients while they're still warm
Press each layer gently to eliminate air pockets

Growing up in an Italian-American household, I was skeptical about squash replacing pasta, but this dish changed my perspective entirely. The natural sweetness of properly roasted spaghetti squash adds a dimension that regular pasta simply can't match.

Storage and Serving

This dish reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day as flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven to maintain the cheese's texture.

After years of experimenting with various squash recipes, this version stands out as a true winner. It's become my go-to dish for both family dinners and entertaining guests who are always surprised to learn they're eating squash instead of pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or chopped vegetables for a vegetarian option.
→ Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, you can use either store-bought or homemade marinara sauce based on your preference.
→ How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
→ How do I know when the spaghetti squash is roasted?
The squash is ready when it is tender and can easily be scraped into strands with a fork.
→ What can I garnish this dish with?
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor, but it’s optional.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash

Creamy and cheesy spaghetti squash pasta with a flavorful twist.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
55 Minutes
Total Time
70 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Spaghetti Squash

01 1 large spaghetti squash
02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 Salt, to taste
04 Pepper, to taste

→ Meat Sauce

05 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
06 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
07 3 garlic cloves, minced
08 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
09 Salt, to taste
10 Pepper, to taste
11 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

→ Creamy Cheese Layer

12 1 cup ricotta cheese
13 1/2 cup sour cream
14 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
16 Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the inner sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves face-down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is soft when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, scrape out the spaghetti-like strands using a fork and set them aside.

Step 02

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until completely browned, then drain any excess fat. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, allowing them to cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, then set it aside.

Step 03

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, sour cream, Parmesan, and 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Step 04

In a large baking dish, start by layering half of the roasted spaghetti squash. Spread half the meat sauce over it, followed by half the cheese mixture. Repeat the same layers with the remaining squash, meat sauce, and cheese. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

Step 05

Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden. Optionally garnish with parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!

Notes

  1. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or diced vegetables.
  2. You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
  3. Feel free to use either store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large baking dish
  • Fork (for scraping squash)

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (contains cheese and sour cream)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 92
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~