Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash (Print Version)

# 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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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:

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

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