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Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to understand what makes spaghetti squash so special. This vibrant vegetable has a hard exterior that, when cooked, reveals a tender, stringy flesh resembling spaghetti strands. The taste is mild and slightly sweet, making it an excellent canvas for various sauces and toppings.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Discover the delicious and healthy Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta, a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta that's both nutritious and satisfying. This recipe transforms spaghetti squash into a comforting dish packed with flavor, ideal for the whole family. With its low calories, high fiber, and gluten-free nature, it's perfect for various diets. Learn how to prepare this delightful dish, combining savory ground meat, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs for a meal that's as good for you as it is tasty. Enjoy the perfect blend of health and comfort in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium spaghetti squash

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 pound ground turkey (or beef, if preferred)

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (preferably low-sugar)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until tender.

    Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat if needed.

      Combine with Marinara: Stir in the marinara sauce into the cooked turkey, allowing it to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

        Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Add chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Assemble the Dish: Once the spaghetti squash is ready, let it cool slightly and then use a fork to scrape the insides to create strands. In a large baking dish, combine the spaghetti squash strands with the meat sauce. Mix until well coated. Top with dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

            Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.

              Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr | 6 servings