Cheesy Veggie Spaghetti Squash Bake
This Cheesy Veggie Spaghetti Squash Bake offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it the ultimate comforting dish. Using spaghetti squash as a healthy substitute for traditional pasta, this casserole is layered with a medley of sautéed vegetables, aromatic spices, and a generous mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Each bite is a delicious fusion of sweet roasted squash, savory vegetables, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner, this dish is a flavorful way to sneak in some extra vegetables while keeping it light and satisfying.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Spaghetti squash
1 (cooked and separated into strands)
Yellow onion
1 large (diced)
Green bell pepper
1 (chopped)
Red bell pepper
1 (chopped)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons
Crushed tomatoes
1 (28 ounce) can
Garlic
3-5 cloves (minced)
Basil
1 teaspoon
Oregano
1/2 teaspoon
Crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Mozzarella cheese
1 cup (grated)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Veggie Spaghetti Squash Bake?
It is a comforting casserole that uses spaghetti squash as a healthy pasta substitute, layered with sauteed vegetables, tomatoes, and cheese.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, featuring a variety of vegetables and two types of cheese.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 main ingredients, including spaghetti squash, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and cheeses.
What kind of cheese is used in the bake?
The recipe calls for a mix of 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
How do I prepare the spaghetti squash?
The spaghetti squash should be cooked and then separated into strands before being incorporated into the bake.
What vegetables are included in the dish?
The bake includes spaghetti squash, yellow onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and low calorie, providing a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta casseroles.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to provide a spicy kick.
What aromatic spices are used?
The recipe uses garlic, basil, and oregano to create a savory Italian-inspired flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the description highlights that it is perfect for meal prep as it can be easily stored and reheated.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe requires one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe suggests using between 3 to 5 minced cloves of garlic depending on your preference.
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
The recipe specifically lists one green and one red bell pepper, but you can use any variety you have on hand.
Is the Cheesy Veggie Spaghetti Squash Bake gluten-free?
Yes, because it uses spaghetti squash instead of wheat pasta, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
What is the texture of the dish?
It features a blend of sweet roasted squash strands, savory sauteed vegetables, and a gooey cheese topping.
How much olive oil is required?
You will need 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sauteing the vegetables.
Can I serve this for a family dinner?
Absolutely, it is described as an ultimate comforting dish that is great for a family setting.
Is there added sugar in this recipe?
The ingredients list no added sugar, making it a savory and healthy meal option.
How do I get the 'spaghetti' from the squash?
Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh, which will naturally separate into spaghetti-like strands.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include vegetarian, casserole, spaghetti squash, healthy, cheesy, one-dish meal, low calorie, and comfort food.
Can I customize the vegetables?
Yes, while the recipe uses onions and peppers, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach if desired.
Is it a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal, meaning it provides a complete and satisfying dinner in one pan.
How much basil is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of basil to season the tomato base.
What size onion should I use?
The recipe recommends using 1 large yellow onion, diced.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh basil and oregano; generally, use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
Is the dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, spaghetti squash is a popular low-carb alternative to traditional grain-based pasta.
How much oregano is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of oregano.
Does the recipe include preparation instructions for the squash?
The ingredient list specifies that the squash should be cooked and separated into strands before starting the bake.
What makes this bake 'comforting'?
The combination of warm roasted squash, savory tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella and parmesan makes it very satisfying.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, you can simply replace the mozzarella and parmesan with your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives.