spaghetti squash pasta bake

Spaghetti squash pasta bake is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any season. It is a great way to get your daily servings of vegetables while also providing a delicious, filling meal. This dish is also incredibly versatile, allowing for various ingredients to be added in order to create unique flavors and textures. Spaghetti squash pasta bake is a simple dish to make and can easily be adapted to suit any dietary needs or preferences. Here’s how to make this savory dish.

Ingredients

To make spaghetti squash pasta bake, you will need the following ingredients:

1 large spaghetti squash
1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste (optional)

Instructions

Begin by preheating the oven to 425°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the halves face down on a baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Once the squash is done cooking, let it cool for 10 minutes before handling.

Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands from the inside of the squash. Place the strands in a bowl and discard the skins. Drizzle the strands with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

In a 9x13 baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of the spaghetti squash strands, followed by a layer of the mozzarella cheese and a layer of Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers until all of the ingredients are used. Top the dish with a final layer of Parmesan cheese.

Place the dish in the oven and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make spaghetti squash pasta bake?

It takes about an hour and a half to make spaghetti squash pasta bake, including prep time, baking time, and cooling time.

Is spaghetti squash pasta bake healthy?

Yes, spaghetti squash pasta bake is a healthy dish. It is a great source of vegetables and fiber, and is low in fat and calories. However, it is high in sodium, so it is best to serve it as an occasional treat.

Can I add other ingredients to the dish?

Yes, you can easily add other ingredients to the dish to create unique flavors and textures. For example, you can add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage, chopped vegetables, or even cooked pasta.

Can I make spaghetti squash pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I freeze spaghetti squash pasta bake?

Yes, you can freeze spaghetti squash pasta bake for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing in the freezer. Thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.