Satisfy your pasta cravings with a healthy twist using this Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs recipe. By replacing traditional pasta with roasted spaghetti squash, this dish offers a light and nutritious alternative. Paired with flavorful turkey meatballs, sautéed mushrooms, and baby spinach, it's a delicious low-carb option packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor.
Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs
Course: MainCuisine: American4
servings15
minutes40
minutes350
kcalA light and wholesome dish featuring tender spaghetti squash topped with flavorful turkey meatballs and savory marinara sauce.
Ingredients
1 spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds), halved lengthwise
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
1/2 ounce grated Parmesan cheese (3 tablespoons)
1 tablespoon dried breadcrumbs
8 ounces lean ground turkey
8 ounces mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster), cut 1/4 inch thick (about 3 cups)
1 cup homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken stock
4 ounces baby spinach (about 5 cups), washed well
Directions
- Roast the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the spaghetti squash halves, cut-side down, on a baking sheet. Roast for 35-40 minutes, until tender. Once cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground turkey, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, oregano, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion, remaining garlic, and mushrooms, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide the roasted spaghetti squash among serving plates. Top with the turkey meatballs and sautéed vegetables. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately for a hearty, healthy meal.
This Spaghetti Squash with Turkey Meatballs is a perfect meal for those looking to enjoy comfort food with a healthy twist. The tender roasted spaghetti squash paired with lean turkey meatballs and nutrient-packed vegetables makes for a delicious and balanced dish. Light, flavorful, and satisfying, this meal is ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
