Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole (Hearty & Low-Carb)

Spaghetti squash meatball casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s both comforting and healthy. Picture tender strands of roasted squash layered with marinara, melty cheese, and juicy meatballs—all baked until bubbling and golden. It’s everything you love about classic Italian comfort food, made lighter with a low-carb twist.

I love creating simple, satisfying meals that bring people to the table, and this one is always a hit. If you enjoy protein-packed dishes like my low carb cheesy chicken spaghetti, this casserole will quickly earn a spot on your weekly menu. It’s wholesome, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy nights or cozy family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Low-carb and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
• Deliciously satisfying, combining the flavors of meatballs and spaghetti squash.
• Great for meal prep; it stores well for leftovers.
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices for added flair.

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Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Spaghetti Squash: This vegetable is the star of the dish, providing a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
• Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors of the dish, bringing everything together.
• Fennel Seed: This adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of anise flavor, elevating the meatballs.
• Ground Coriander: A warm spice that complements the meat and adds depth to the casserole.
• Dried Basil and Oregano: These herbs bring a classic Italian flavor, making your casserole taste like a comforting hug.
• Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 90% lean to keep it healthy while still being juicy and flavorful.
• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that’s perfect for sautéing the aromatics.
• Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth, making the base of your meat mixture aromatic.
• Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Collard Greens and Spinach: These leafy greens boost the nutrition and add vibrant color to your casserole.
• Reduced-Fat Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness without too many calories, making it a great addition.
• Plum Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add juiciness and a burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the meat.
• Pasta Sauce: A good-quality sauce ties everything together, making it easy and delicious.
• Shredded Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: This melty topping is the finishing touch, creating a bubbly, golden crust.

For those looking to mix things up, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making the Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want that casserole to bake perfectly, with all the flavors melding together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Next, grab your medium spaghetti squash. Carefully cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake it for 30-40 minutes until it’s tender. To check for doneness, poke it with a fork; it should easily pierce the flesh. This step is essential for creating those spaghetti-like strands!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

While the squash is baking, let’s get those flavors going! In a skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re softened and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your casserole, making it irresistible.

Step 4: Cook the Meat

Now it’s time to add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in the fennel seed, ground coriander, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked. This is where the magic happens—those spices will infuse the meat with flavor, making your casserole truly delicious.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chopped collard greens, fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, chopped tomatoes, and pasta sauce. Mix everything well. This combination not only boosts the nutrition of your casserole but also adds vibrant colors and textures. It’s a vegetable-based meatball casserole that’s as healthy as it is tasty!

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

After the spaghetti squash is done baking, take it out and scrape the flesh with a fork to create those lovely strands. In a large casserole dish, combine the spaghetti squash strands with the meat mixture. Top it all off with shredded mozzarella cheese. This melty layer is what makes it a true spaghetti squash dinner casserole!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Finally, pop the casserole back into the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner!

Tips for Success

• Use a sharp knife to cut the spaghetti squash safely and easily.
• Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the flavors significantly.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique twist.
• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving; it helps with slicing.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet: A standard one works, but a rimmed sheet can catch any drips.
• Sharp knife: Essential for cutting the spaghetti squash safely.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet makes sautéing easy and cleanup a breeze.
• Casserole dish: Any oven-safe dish will do, but a glass one lets you see the layers.
• Fork: Perfect for scraping the spaghetti squash into strands.

Variations To Try

• For a vegetarian twist, swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils.
• Add roasted bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Incorporate different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick.
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes or Italian sausage for a bolder taste.
• Try using different greens, such as kale or Swiss chard, for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with garlic bread or whole-grain rolls for a hearty meal.
• A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
• Present in individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch.

FAQs about Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole

Conclusion

This spaghetti squash meatball casserole is proof that wholesome can still mean indulgent. Every forkful delivers cheesy, saucy comfort while keeping things light and veggie-packed. It’s the kind of dish that wins over both kids and adults, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers.

For more satisfying low-carb meals, try my flavorful keto spaghetti squash with beef or the creamy, crowd-pleasing creamy beef and shells. Each recipe is simple, hearty, and designed to make dinnertime easier.

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