Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Total Time

Prep: 20 min. Bake: 45 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Oct. 10, 2023
Spaghetti squash, like zucchini, can take over a garden. This is an excellent way to put that abundance to good use. I got the original spaghetti squash casserole recipe at a cooking class, and I've made it many times since. It's unique and tasty. —Mina Dick, Boissevain, Manitoba
Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1 small spaghetti squash (1-1/2 to 2 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°. Cut squash in half lengthwise; scoop out seeds. Place cut side down in baking dish; add water. Cover; bake until the squash is easily pierced with a fork, 20-30 minutes. When cool enough to handle, scoop out squash, separating strands with a fork. Reduce oven temperature to 350°.
  2. In a skillet, cook beef, onion, red pepper and garlic until meat is browned and the vegetables are tender, 5-7 minutes.; drain. Add tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper and squash. Cook and stir until the liquid is absorbed, 1-2 minutes.
  3. Transfer to an ungreased 1-1/2-qt. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, 25 minutes. Sprinkle with the cheese and parsley; let stand a few minutes before serving.
Spaghetti Squash Casserole Tips

How else can you cook spaghetti squash when making spaghetti squash casserole?

In addition to baking spaghetti squash, you can also cook it in the microwave or slow cooker. To microwave the spaghetti squash, place squash halves on a microwave-safe plate, cut side down; and microwave on high until tender, about 15 minutes. Or, place the squash halves in a 6- or 7-quart slow cooker, overlapping as needed to fit. Cook, covered, on low until the squash is tender, about 4 to 6 hours.

What can you serve with spaghetti squash casserole?

Spaghetti squash casserole can be served with many sides, including a fresh vegetable salad and garlic bread.

Can you make spaghetti squash casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Spaghetti squash casserole can be made ahead of time. Assemble and bake the casserole as directed. Let it cool; and then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the baked spaghetti squash casserole: Let it cool, then cover tightly with foil and freeze up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Here are more tips on how to freeze casserole!

—Julie Schnittka, Taste of Home Senior Editor

Nutrition Facts

1-1/3 cups: 411 calories, 20g fat (9g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 488mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.