Who doesn't love a hearty, comforting casserole that brings together the goodness of spaghetti squash, flavorful meatballs, and gooey cheese all in one dish? Today, we're diving into the recipe for a scrumptious Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole that will leave your taste buds singing with joy! This dish is not just a feast for the senses but also a nourishing meal that can feed a family of 4-6.
Ingredients:
1 Roasted Spaghetti Squash : Prepared by roasting spaghetti squash in ghee, butter, tallow, or olive oil until tender.
Gluten-Free Meatballs : Made with 1 pound of ground beef, gluten-free breadcrumbs (options include prepared gluten free breadcrumbs, cassava, almond flour, tapioca flour, chicken skin powder, beef gelatin, rice flour, or powdered Parmesan cheese), egg, optional ricotta or cottage cheese for added protein, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and garlic powder.
Can of Crushed Tomatoes : Seasoned with more Italian seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt, and optional fresh herbs.
Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese : For that irresistible cheesy topping.
Fresh Basil : Optional, but highly recommended for a burst of flavor & freshness.
1 spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
2 tablespoons ghee, butter, tallow, or olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (options include pre-prepared gluten-free breadcrumbs, cassava, almond flour, tapioca flour, chicken skin powder, beef gelatin, rice flour, or powdered Parmesan cheese)
1 large egg
1/4 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional, for added protein)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon additional Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon additional garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon additional sea salt
Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, or parsley)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded or pieces of fresh mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional, but highly recommended)
Directions:
Prepare the Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with 2 tablespoons of ghee, butter, tallow, or olive oil. Season with sea salt and pepper to taste.
Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pulls away in strands with a fork.
Once done, use a fork to scoop out the spaghetti-like strands and place them in a casserole dish.
Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (if using), 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
Once browned, remove the meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add the 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and optional fresh herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes, then return the meatballs to the skillet and continue cooking until the meatballs are fully cooked through, about another 10 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole:
Add the cooked meatballs and sauce to the casserole dish with the roasted spaghetti squash. Gently mix to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Add the Cheesy Topping:
Sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Place the casserole under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Finish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve this delightful casserole hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Get ready to enjoy this hearty and comforting Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole that combines the goodness of wholesome ingredients with comforting flavors. It's a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let the aroma of roasted squash, savory meatballs, and cheesy goodness fill your kitchen with warmth and love!
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