Name: Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 Spaghetti squash (sliced in half and seeds scooped out); 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 clove garlic (crushed); 3 handfuls fresh spinach; 1 lb. organic boneless chicken breasts (baked or boiled and shredded); 1 cup tomato sauce (of choice, homemade or store-bought); 1 egg; 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (more to taste); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (more to taste); 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese (more for topping)

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There’s something truly special about a warm and hearty Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole that makes it perfect for those cozy fall evenings. I remember the first time I decided to make this dish; I had just harvested some fresh produce from my garden, and the thought of transforming my homegrown spaghetti squash into a comforting meal was irresistible. As I roasted the squash, the rich, nutty aroma filled my kitchen, instantly making it feel like home. This dish combines the flavors of Italy with the heartiness of a casserole, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. I love how easy it is to prepare and how it brings everyone together around the table. Each bite is a delightful mixture of spinach, chicken, and the warmth of Italian seasoning, all nestled in a fluffy bed of spaghetti squash. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Oven, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Best Thing About This Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole

It’s Healthy and Wholesome

One of the things I love most about the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole is how healthy it is! The primary ingredient, spaghetti squash, is low in calories and carbs but high in fiber, which makes it a fantastic substitute for traditional pasta. Plus, you’re incorporating spinach and chicken, both of which add nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch of the casserole on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats well, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. I often make extra to share with friends or family, and they always ask me for the recipe!

Customizable to Your Taste

The Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out the chicken for your favorite protein, or add in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to clean out your fridge while still creating a savory, comforting meal.

Kid-Friendly and Family Approved

This casserole is so appealing to kids, and they often don’t even realize they’re eating spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta! My children love helping to mix the ingredients, making it a fun, family-friendly meal that we all enjoy together.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a weekday dinner, or a potluck, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites, yet light enough to enjoy any day of the week.

Delicious Leftovers

Leftovers are always a plus in my house! The Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. I always look forward to heating it up for lunch or dinner, making it a meal that keeps on giving!

Ingredient List for Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole

The ingredients for the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole are all about bringing together fresh flavors and wholesome goodness. Each component plays a role in creating a dish that is not only delicious but also hearty and nutritious. The star of the show, of course, is the spaghetti squash, which gives the casserole its unique texture and lightness. Together with chicken, spinach, and a blend of spices, this dish embodies the essence of Italian comfort food.

1 Spaghetti squash, sliced in half and seeds scooped out
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, crushed
3 handfuls fresh spinach
1 lb. organic boneless chicken breasts, baked or boiled and shredded
1 cup tomato sauce of choice, homemade or store-bought
1 egg
1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning, more to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, more to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese, more for topping

The Process for Making Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Making the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with amazing scents. Don’t be intimidated by the steps; I promise it’s easier than it looks! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven. While it’s warming up, prepare your spaghetti squash and get ready for a beautiful mixture of flavors to come together.

Preheat the oven to 375 °F. This temperature will help cook the spaghetti squash perfectly, making it tender and easy to scoop out.
Cut the spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. The inside should be clean and ready for seasoning. Drizzle the halves with extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the spaghetti squash from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Place the spaghetti squash face down on the baking sheet and pour in 1/4 cup of water. This moisture will help steam the squash as it bakes, ensuring it cooks through evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until fork-tender. You’ll know it’s done when you can easily pierce the flesh with a fork.
Once the spaghetti squash is cool to the touch, scrape out the flesh using a fork. It should come out in lovely strands resembling traditional spaghetti. Place it in a medium mixing bowl and set aside.
In a small skillet over medium heat, heat your remaining olive oil and sauté the crushed garlic. Just a minute or so will do, letting the flavors meld together.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, sautéing until wilted. This step adds a vibrant color and richness to the dish. It only takes a couple of minutes!
In the bowl with the scraped spaghetti squash, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture, along with the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, egg, and the blend of spices—Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, freshly ground pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and coated in sauce.
Transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. The colors should be vibrant and inviting!
For an added touch, sprinkle with fresh parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on top. This creates a delightful crust as it bakes.
Bake at 375 °F for an additional 10 minutes. For a beautiful finish, broil on high for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese starts to bubble and brown. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn!
Serve warm, and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Each bite will be a comforting blend of flavors that warms the soul.

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing the Right Squash: Make sure to select a firm and heavy spaghetti squash. It should feel dense for its size and have a uniform, yellowish color.
Letting It Cool: Allowing the spaghetti squash to cool for a few minutes after baking makes it easier to handle when scraping out the flesh.
Mixing Tips: When combining the ingredients, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth for more moisture if needed!
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor and presentation—add them as a final touch before serving.

Recipe Notes about Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Making the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole comes with its own set of tips and tricks. These notes will help you make the most of your cooking experience:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Freezing: You can freeze the casserole! Just let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will last for about three months.
Pairing: This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.
Variations: Try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
Serving Size: Depending on your appetite, this dish can serve more than four—consider it filling enough for a crowd!

What to Pair With Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Serving the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole opens up a world of pairing possibilities. Here’s what I recommend:

Side Salads: A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette brings a balance to the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, holiday gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week.
Seasonal Pairings: In fall, consider serving with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for added nutrition.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine can complement the flavors of the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole beautifully if you enjoy wine with your meal.
Storage Tip: Make sure to store any leftovers in a sealed container for freshness!

FAQ

Absolutely! The Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole is incredibly versatile. You can add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to sauté them to remove excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole.

You’ll know the spaghetti squash is done cooking when you can easily pierce it with a fork. It should be fork-tender and the flesh should pull away easily in strands. This usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes of baking at 375 °F. If you want to be sure, you can check it at the 25-minute mark!

Yes, the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the fridge for up to four days. It reheats well, maintaining its flavor and texture. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Definitely! To make a vegetarian version of the Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole, simply omit the chicken and replace it with more vegetables or some plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils. You can also increase the amount of spinach or add in other greens for extra nutrition.

Conclusion

The Italian Style Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its nutritious ingredients and flavorful combination make it a recipe worth trying. I encourage you to whip this up for your next family dinner or as a hearty meal prep option. You won’t regret it! Enjoy each bite of this delightful casserole!