This spaghetti squash lasagna is a fun twist on a classic favorite. Instead of noodles, it uses roasted spaghetti squash, making it lighter and veggie-packed!
It’s a great option for a cozy night in or when you want to impress guests with something different. Plus, the cheesy layers are so comforting, you’ll forget it’s healthy! 🧀
I love making it ahead of time, so all I have to do is pop it in the oven when I’m ready to eat. It’s delicious and perfect for meal prep! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti Squash: This is the star of the dish! It’s a great low-carb substitute for pasta. If you can’t find spaghetti squash, you could use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or even eggplant as an alternative.
Ground Meat: I often use ground turkey for a leaner option, but ground beef adds rich flavor. You could also use plant-based meat substitutes if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Cheeses: Ricotta is creamy and delicious, but cottage cheese works too for a lighter option. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan ricotta or cream cheese alternatives. Use any melty cheese you prefer in place of mozzarella, like provolone or dairy-free cheese.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought, but homemade is always better! If you’re short on time, any jarred sauce will do. For a unique flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper or herbs to the sauce.
How Do I Properly Roast Spaghetti Squash?
Roasting spaghetti squash can be straightforward, but it’s important to get it just right! Here’s what to do:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the squash carefully; a sharp knife helps. Scoop out seeds with a spoon.
- Drizzle the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before placing them cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh is tender enough to shred with a fork.
- Let it cool for a few minutes to handle and then scrape the strands gently using a fork.
Make sure to drain any excess water after scraping to avoid a soggy lasagna! This little step makes a huge difference!
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious and healthy spaghetti squash lasagna will take about 30 minutes of prep time and approximately 60 minutes of cooking and baking time. Overall, expect to spend about 90 minutes to enjoy a wonderful, homemade dish with plenty of layers and flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Spaghetti Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
2. Scraping the Squash:
Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh gently into strands and set aside. If there’s any excess moisture, you can drain it using a colander or by placing the strands in a clean kitchen towel. This step helps prevent your lasagna from becoming watery!
3. Cooking the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add in the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, and drain any excess fat if needed. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preparing the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture will add creaminess to your lasagna!
5. Assembling the Lasagna:
Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then start layering! First, spread half of the spaghetti squash strands evenly as the base layer. Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the squash layer, followed by half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat sauce. Repeat these layers with the remaining spaghetti squash, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce. Finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Baking the Lasagna:
Cover the dish with foil to protect the cheese. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The aromas filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
7. Finishing and Serving:
Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the layers hold together better when serving. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped basil or parsley before digging in!
Enjoy this hearty, healthy spin on classic lasagna that’s packed with flavor and satisfaction in every bite! 🍽️
Can I Use a Different Type of Squash?
While spaghetti squash is the best fit for this lasagna due to its noodle-like texture, you can experiment with other squash varieties like butternut or zucchini. Keep in mind that the cooking times and texture may vary.
Can I Make This Lasagna Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef or turkey with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a protein boost.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors enhance over time! You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze it! Before baking, assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking to ensure even cooking.
