If you're looking for a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, our Low Carb Spaghetti Squash Casserole recipe is just what you need. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors and textures of pasta without the guilt of excess carbs.
Why You'll Love This Low Carb Casserole
- Irresistible Flavor. Low Carb Spaghetti Squash offers a delightful, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with various sauces and toppings.
- Low in Carbs. As the name suggests, spaghetti squash is significantly lower in carbohydrates than traditional pasta, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake.
- Easy to Prepare. Cooking spaghetti squash is a breeze, and it's a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes.
- Nutrient-Rich. Spaghetti squash is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
- Gluten-Free. It's naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Whether you're following a low-carb diet or simply want to incorporate more veggies into your meals, this recipe is a winner.
How Do You Keep Squash Casserole From Getting Watery?
To prevent squash casserole from becoming watery, you can follow these tips:
- Properly Drain the Squash. After cooking or roasting the squash, make sure to drain it thoroughly. Use a colander or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. You can gently press the squash to release any remaining water.
- Salt and Rest. Before cooking or roasting the squash, you can sprinkle it with some salt and allow it to rest for about 15-30 minutes. Salt will draw out some of the moisture. After resting, use a paper towel to pat the squash dry to remove any beads of moisture on the surface.
- Choose the Right Ingredients. When selecting ingredients like cheese or sauces, opt for low-moisture options. High-moisture ingredients can contribute to a watery casserole. For instance, use grated Parmesan cheese instead of mozzarella, and choose a thicker sauce.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Spaghetti Squash- The spaghetti squash is the star of the dish and serves as a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. After being roasted and scraped, the flesh of the squash turns into long strands resembling spaghetti, forming the base of the casserole.
- Olive Oil- Olive oil is used to drizzle over the cut halves of the spaghetti squash before roasting. It helps enhance the flavor of the squash and aids in the roasting process, keeping it moist.
- Salt and Pepper- These seasonings are used to add flavor to the squash. Sprinkling salt and pepper over the squash before roasting helps bring out its natural taste.
- Low-Carb Pasta Sauce- You can choose your favorite low-carb pasta sauce to add flavor and moisture to the casserole. Common choices include marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, or pesto. The sauce is typically heated and then mixed with the shredded spaghetti squash before baking.
- Optional Toppings- Toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes are used to garnish the casserole and add extra flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory and cheesy element, fresh basil provides a burst of freshness, and red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
How To Make Spaghetti Squash Casserole
- Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the Squash. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard them.
- Season and Roast. Drizzle each half of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes or until the squash is tender and the flesh easily shreds into spaghetti-like strands with a fork.
- Check out this post for more info on How To Cook Spaghetti Squash
- Shred the Squash. Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the roasted squash into strands. It will resemble spaghetti!
- Top and Serve. Heat your favorite low-carb pasta sauce in a pan. Once heated, pour the sauce over the shredded squash. Top with optional toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips And Tricks
Making a delicious low-carb spaghetti squash casserole requires a few tips and tricks to ensure it turns out well. Here are some helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Squash. Look for a firm, heavy spaghetti squash with no soft spots or blemishes. A ripe squash will have a deep yellow color.
- Properly Cook the Squash. To achieve the right texture, bake or microwave the squash until it's tender but not mushy. Overcooked squash can become watery.
- Drain Excess Moisture. After cooking the spaghetti squash, use a fork to scrape out the strands and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for a few minutes to release excess moisture. Then, gently squeeze or press with paper towels to remove even more moisture.
Variations
Low-carb spaghetti squash casserole is versatile, and you can customize it with various ingredients to suit your preferences. Here are some tasty variations to consider:
- Mediterranean Style- Combine cooked spaghetti squash with diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Veggie Lover's Delight- Load up your casserole with sautéed or roasted low-carb vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Mix them with your favorite low-carb sauce and cheese.
- Buffalo Chicken- Mix cooked spaghetti squash with shredded buffalo chicken, cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella. Top it with a drizzle of hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
- Tex-Mex Twist- Create a Tex-Mex casserole by combining spaghetti squash with seasoned ground beef or turkey, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Serve with guacamole and sour cream.
What To Serve With Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Spaghetti squash casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some options to consider:
- Green Salad- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing complements the casserole's flavors and provides a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread- Serve some warm garlic bread or garlic knots on the side for a satisfying and comforting addition.
- Roasted Vegetables- Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add color, texture, and flavor to your meal.
- Protein- To make your meal more substantial, consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
How Long Does It Last?
Leftover Low Carb Spaghetti Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze cooked spaghetti squash. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Ingredients
- 3 pound Spaghetti Squash
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- 4 cups Rao'ss Spaghetti Sauce
- 2 cups Parmesan Cheese
- Basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the Squash. Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and discard them.
- Season and Roast. Drizzle each half of the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes or until the squash is tender and the flesh easily shreds into spaghetti-like strands with a fork.Check out this post for more info on How To Cook Spaghetti Squash
- Shred the Squash. Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the roasted squash into strands. It will resemble spaghetti!
- Top and Serve. Heat your favorite low-carb pasta sauce in a pan. Once heated, pour the sauce over the shredded squash. Top with optional toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes. Serve hot and enjoy!
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Don't forget to check out my other Keto cookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats, and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
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