Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Stuffed spaghetti squash is a delicious and nutritious dish that has gained popularity in recent years. This versatile vegetable provides a healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes, and its unique texture and flavor make it a favorite among those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. The dish typically involves scraping out the cooked squash strands and filling them with a variety of savory ingredients, creating a satisfying and filling meal.

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

1 hr

Additional Time:

45 mins

Total Time:

2 hrs

Servings:

4

Ingredients

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
1 pound lean ground turkey
¾ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
½ teaspoon dried chipotle chili pepper
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 (2 1/2 pound) spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup white onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
¾ cup black beans, rinsed and drained
½ cup fire-roasted frozen corn
¼ cup canned mild diced green chilies
1 (14.5 ounce) can Hunt's Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded queso Chihuahua or Mexican blend cheese
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Step 1

Combine turkey, salt, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked and sweet paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, chipotle pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and apple cider vinegar in a mixing bowl. Mix well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour for flavors to blend.

Step 2

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3

Cut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and brush cut sides with olive oil. Place squash cut-side down on prepared baking sheet.

Step 4

Roast in preheated oven until squash is soft, 40 to 45 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 5

Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chilled chorizo mixture. Cook and stir, breaking up lumps, until cooked through and browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Add onion and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until onion becomes translucent, stirring constantly. Add garlic and cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in chili powder, salt, and cumin.

Step 6

Stir in beans, corn, diced green chilies, and tomatoes; cover and simmer 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 7

Fluff spaghetti squash strands with a fork, keeping them in the shells.

Step 8

Increase oven temperature to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 9

Divide sauce among 4 squash halves. Top each half with 1/4 cup of cheese. Return to baking sheet and bake until cheese is melted 5 to 6 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

546

Calories

16g

Fat

63g

Carbs

43g

Protein

Complement

The versatility of stuffed spaghetti squash also makes it a great option for those following a vegetarian or gluten-free diet. It can be stuffed with a variety of fillings such as seasoned ground meat, beans, vegetables, and cheese, allowing for endless possibilities and flavor combinations. Whether served as a main dish or a side, stuffed spaghetti squash is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. With its healthy and satisfying nature, it's no wonder that this dish has become a staple in many households.