If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal, this Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is the perfect dish for you. Combining the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach with the creamy richness of cheese, all nestled within a tender spaghetti squash, this recipe is a wholesome comfort food that is as nourishing as it is indulgent. Whether you’re vegetarian or simply trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this dish is sure to please your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Ingredients
• 1 large spaghetti squash 🍝
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped 🌿
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 🍄
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded 🧀
• 1/2 cup heavy cream 🥛
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature by the time your ingredients are prepped. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the squash from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard them or save them for roasting. Drizzle the inside of each squash half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors. Place the squash cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily shredded into spaghetti-like strands.
3. Sauté Mushrooms and Spinach
While the squash is roasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown. Next, add the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
4. Make the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms and spinach with the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
5. Stuff the Squash and Bake
Once the squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape the flesh of the squash, creating spaghetti-like strands. Mix the strands with the creamy spinach and mushroom filling. Spoon the mixture back into the squash shells, dividing it evenly between the two halves. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed squash half.
6. Final Bake
Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the stuffed squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting, creamy, and nutritious meal as a main course or a hearty side dish.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Calories per Serving
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 kcal (depending on portion size)
Tips for the Best Results
1. Selecting the Squash: Choose a spaghetti squash that is firm, with no soft spots or blemishes. A medium to large-sized squash works best for this recipe, providing ample space for stuffing.
2. Don’t Overcook the Squash: To avoid mushy strands, keep an eye on the squash while roasting. You want it tender but not too soft, so it retains its spaghetti-like texture.
3. Add Protein: For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu to the creamy filling.
4. Make It Vegan: Replace the dairy with vegan alternatives such as almond ricotta, nutritional yeast, and a plant-based cream to make this dish vegan-friendly.
Health Benefits of Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
• Rich in Fiber: Spaghetti squash is a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable that helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
• Loaded with Nutrients: Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, K, and iron, while mushrooms provide essential B vitamins and minerals like selenium.
• Low-Carb Alternative: This dish is a great low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, making it suitable for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
• Antioxidant-Rich: The ingredients in this dish, such as spinach and mushrooms, are high in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall health.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and roast the squash ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply stuff the squash and bake until heated through.
Q: How should I store leftovers?A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this stuffed squash?A: While you can freeze it, the texture of the spaghetti squash may change slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, do so before the final baking step, and then bake from frozen.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?A: This stuffed squash is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad or a piece of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a versatile, flavorful, and nutrient-packed dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, it’s sure to impress with its creamy texture, savory flavors, and health benefits. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that your whole family will love.