Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe

This delightful recipe combines the creamy goodness of lasagna with the healthy benefits of spaghetti squash. It's a low-carb, high-flavor dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The unique texture of spaghetti squash, combined with rich marinara sauce, ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, creates a lasagna that's both familiar and refreshingly different.

Photos of Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe

Spaghetti squash is a unique winter vegetable that may not be a regular resident in your kitchen. When cooked, its flesh separates into spaghetti-like strands, hence the name. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, look for it in the produce section of a health food store or larger grocery stores. If you still can't find it, butternut squash makes a decent substitute.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Marinara sauce: This tomato-based sauce is an Italian classic and brings out the flavor of the other ingredients.

Part skim ricotta: A type of Italian curd cheese that adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a savory flavor to the dish.

Mozzarella: A traditionally southern Italian cheese made from Italian buffalo's milk that gives the lasagna its gooey consistency.

Spaghetti squash: This is the star of our dish, a healthy, low-carb alternative to pasta.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Fresh pepper: Adds a bit of mild heat and complexity to the flavor profile.

One reader, Cherilyn Tomlin says:

This spaghetti squash lasagna recipe is a game-changer! It's a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional lasagna. The flavors are amazing, and the texture of the spaghetti squash adds a unique twist. It's a hit with my family, and I love that it's packed with nutrients. Highly recommend trying it out!

Cherilyn Tomlin

Techniques Required for Making Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

How to roast spaghetti squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and fibers, then place it on a baking sheet, cut side up, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 1 hour or until the skin gives easily under pressure and the inside is tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Using a fork, scrape out the squash flesh a little at a time, separating it into spaghetti-like strands.

How to assemble the lasagna: In individual oven-safe baking dishes, ladle marinara sauce on the bottom of each dish, top with cooked spaghetti squash, spread evenly, add ricotta, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and mozzarella, then add the remaining sauce, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges begin to bubble; uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

How To Make Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Prepare a healthy yet filling spaghetti squash lasagna for dinner. Roasted pasta strand layered with marinara sauce and cheese then baked to perfection.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 25 minutes

Total: 1 hour 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsmarinara sauce
1cuppart skim ricotta
8tspparmesan cheese
6ozmozarella,part skim, shredded

For Roasted Spaghetti Squash:

1large spaghetti squash,ripe
salt and fresh pepper,to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and fibers with a spoon.
Place on a baking sheet, cut side up, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bake at 350 degrees F for about 1 hour or until the skin gives easily under pressure and the inside is tender. Remove from oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
Using a fork, scrape out the squash flesh a little at a time. It will separate into spaghetti-like strands.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
In four individual 5×7-inch oven-safe baking dishes, ladle ¼ cup quick marinara sauce on the bottom of each dish.
Top each with ¾ cup of cooked spaghetti squash and spread evenly.
Top each with ¼ cup ricotta. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of grated parmesan cheese and .75 oz mozzarella on each.
Add the remaining sauce, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges begin to bubble; uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 344.02kcal
Fat: 18.72g
Saturated Fat: 10.05g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.51g
Carbohydrates: 23.69g
Fiber: 4.55g
Sugar: 11.43g
Protein: 21.49g
Cholesterol: 59.67mg
Sodium: 988.03mg
Calcium: 526.33mg
Potassium: 687.66mg
Iron: 2.04mg
Vitamin A: 206.72µg
Vitamin C: 5.29mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

When preparing the spaghetti squash, ensure to scrape out the flesh gently with a fork to maintain its spaghetti-like strands. Overzealous scraping can result in mushy squash, which won't give the desired texture for the lasagna. Also, when layering the lasagna, evenly spreading each ingredient ensures a balanced flavor in every bite.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Prep ahead: Prepare the marinara sauce and roast the spaghetti squash in advance to save time when assembling the lasagna.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese to cut down on prep time.

Bake in bulk: Consider making a larger batch of spaghetti squash lasagna and freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.

One-dish meal: Transform the spaghetti squash lasagna into a one-dish meal by adding cooked ground meat or vegetables to the layers for added flavor and convenience.

Kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools such as a food processor to quickly prepare the marinara sauce or a mandoline slicer to easily slice the spaghetti squash.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe

marinara sauce - Substitute with homemade tomato sauce: Homemade tomato sauce can be a great substitute for marinara sauce as it is typically made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, providing a similar flavor profile.
part skim ricotta - Substitute with low-fat cottage cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for part skim ricotta, as it has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement in the lasagna recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Grated pecorino romano can be used as a substitute for parmesan cheese, as it offers a similar salty and nutty flavor, adding depth to the dish.
mozzarella - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, as it melts well and has a mild, creamy flavor, making it a suitable alternative for the lasagna recipe.
spaghetti squash - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for spaghetti squash, as it has a similar sweet and nutty flavor, and when roasted, it can be shredded into strands resembling spaghetti, making it a great alternative for the recipe.

Presenting Your Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Elevate the plating: When presenting the spaghetti squash lasagna, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the components to create an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the overall presentation.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Opt for sleek, modern ceramic plates or porcelain dishes to showcase the lasagna. The choice of serving ware can enhance the overall dining experience.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the layers of spaghetti squash, sauce, and cheese are meticulously arranged to create a visually stunning dish.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point of the presentation. The strategic use of empty space can accentuate the beauty of the lasagna.
Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Consider adorning the plate with delicate edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to introduce a touch of sophistication and a subtle floral aroma to the dish.
Highlight the layers: Showcase the layers of the lasagna by carefully revealing the spaghetti squash, ricotta, and marinara sauce, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine through.
Incorporate a drizzle of balsamic reduction: Create an artful drizzle of balsamic reduction on the plate to add a touch of sweetness and acidity, elevating the overall flavor profile and visual appeal of the dish.
Embrace minimalism: Opt for a minimalist approach to plating, focusing on simplicity and clean lines to allow the natural beauty of the dish to take center stage.
Consider the overall composition: Pay attention to the balance and composition of the plate, ensuring that each element harmonizes with the others to create a visually striking and appetizing presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
Fork: A utensil with prongs used for scraping out the spaghetti squash flesh.
Oven-safe baking dishes: Dishes that can be used in the oven without being damaged by the heat.
Spoon: Used for scooping out the seeds and fibers from the spaghetti squash.

Storing and Freezing Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

To store leftover spaghetti squash lasagna, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate the leftover lasagna for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, remove the desired portion from the refrigerator and heat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti squash lasagna. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents.
Alternatively, freeze the lasagna in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
Frozen spaghetti squash lasagna can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator.
Tip: If you plan on freezing the lasagna, slightly undercook the spaghetti squash to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
To reheat frozen lasagna, remove the plastic wrap and foil, then place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
If the lasagna seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to help moisten it.

How To Reheat Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spaghetti squash lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual portions of the spaghetti squash lasagna in the microwave. Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be sure to check the lasagna every 30 seconds to avoid overheating, which can cause the spaghetti squash to become mushy.
For a crispy top, after reheating the spaghetti squash lasagna in the oven or microwave, place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
If the leftover spaghetti squash lasagna seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of water, marinara sauce, or chicken broth to the dish before reheating to help maintain its moisture.
To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating the spaghetti squash lasagna multiple times. If you have a large amount of leftovers, consider reheating only the portion you plan to eat and storing the rest in the refrigerator.

Interesting Fact About Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Spaghetti squash is a great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. It's also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.

Is Making Spaghetti Squash Lasagna at Home Cost-Effective?

This spaghetti squash lasagna recipe is a budget-friendly option for households. The use of affordable ingredients like spaghetti squash and part skim ricotta makes it a cost-effective choice. The dish offers a satisfying and flavorful experience, earning a solid 8/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical and delicious option for a family meal.

Is Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spaghetti squash lasagna recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional lasagna. By using spaghetti squash instead of pasta, the dish is lower in carbohydrates and calories. The recipe also incorporates part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, which are lower in fat compared to their full-fat counterparts. Additionally, the marinara sauce provides a good source of vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Increase the amount of vegetables by adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the layers for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Use a homemade marinara sauce to control the amount of sodium and added sugars
Opt for low-fat or fat-free ricotta cheese to further reduce the fat content
Incorporate lean ground turkey or chicken for an added protein source

To make this recipe even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:

Serve the lasagna with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal
Use whole milk ricotta and mozzarella cheeses in moderation to provide a balance of flavor and healthy fats
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to add depth of flavor without relying on excess salt
Prepare extra spaghetti squash to use in other meals throughout the week, such as in salads or as a side dish

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Spaghetti Squash Dish

The spaghetti squash lasagna recipe is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional lasagna. The use of spaghetti squash as a substitute for pasta adds a unique and delicious twist to the dish. The combination of marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella creates a rich and flavorful lasagna, while the roasted spaghetti squash provides a satisfying texture. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing the comforting flavors of a classic lasagna. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a lighter, yet still indulgent, Italian-inspired meal.

Enhance Your Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savory garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs, served warm and crispy.

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing, topped with shaved parmesan cheese.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Tiramisu: Decadent layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and dusted with cocoa powder for a rich and indulgent dessert.

Delicious Alternatives to Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and colorful dish that combines ground meat, rice, and flavorful seasonings, all stuffed inside a bell pepper and baked to perfection.

Mango Salsa Chicken: A refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken dishes, featuring a zesty mango salsa that pairs perfectly with grilled or baked chicken breasts.

Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy and comforting soup made with roasted butternut squash, onions, and a blend of warm spices, perfect for a cozy night in during the colder months.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip for a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. The combination of tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and gooey cheese creates a decadent dip that is perfect for scooping up with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Velvety Lemon Tart: Savor the tangy and refreshing taste of a velvety lemon tart, with a buttery and flaky crust. The zesty lemon filling is perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, creating a delightful dessert that is both light and satisfying.

Why trust this Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe:

This spaghetti squash lasagna recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic dish, incorporating spaghetti squash as a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The use of marinara sauce and part skim ricotta ensures a lighter yet flavorful experience. With the addition of parmesan cheese and mozzarella, this recipe promises a satisfying, cheesy indulgence. The detailed instructions and careful layering process guarantee a delicious outcome, making it a trustworthy choice for those seeking a nutritious and delectable lasagna experience.

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FAQ:

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought marinara sauce if you're short on time. Just make sure to choose a good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

Can I prepare the spaghetti squash in advance?

Absolutely! You can roast the spaghetti squash in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will save you time when you're ready to assemble the lasagna.

Can I freeze the spaghetti squash lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze the spaghetti squash lasagna. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until it's heated through.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese with another type of cheese?

If you're not a fan of ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or even a mixture of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Can I add other vegetables or meat to the lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a meaty lasagna, you can also add cooked ground turkey or lean ground beef to the marinara sauce.