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When the evenings cool down and the leaves start to paint the ground in vibrant hues, I find myself craving comfort food that hugs my heart and nourishes my body. Enter the Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Ground Beef—a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a cozy family favorite! As I prepare this dish, the enticing aroma of garlic mingling with savory beef and rich marinara fills my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits.

What I love about this casserole is its delightful blend of flavors and textures. Tender strands of spaghetti squash serve as a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, giving a health-conscious twist to a comforting classic. The addition of creamy ricotta and melting mozzarella creates a delectable cheesy layer that perfectly complements the hearty beef beneath. Quick to whip up and satisfying to the last bite, this dish makes weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cooking enthusiast, you’ll find that this casserole is not just a meal—it’s an experience that brings loved ones together around the table.

Why Love this Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef?

Comforting Choice: This Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef offers a heartwarming dish that feels indulgent but is lighter on the carbs.
Flavor Fusion: The savory ground beef combined with tangy marinara and creamy cheeses creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.
Quick and Simple: Ready in around an hour, it transforms busy evenings into memorable meals without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Unique Twist: Spaghetti squash serves as a clever substitute for pasta, catering to gluten-free and low-carb diets while still satisfying your cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike—everyone will be going back for seconds!

Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef Ingredients

For the Casserole
• Spaghetti Squash – This serves as the low-carb base that mimics traditional pasta. You can easily substitute it with 6 cups of pre-cooked, store-bought spaghetti squash if you’re short on time.
• Olive Oil – Essential for roasting, it adds moisture and enhances the flavor of the squash.
• Kosher Salt – Vital for bringing out the flavors; adjust if other salted ingredients are used.
• Yellow Onion – Adds natural sweetness and a savory foundation to your meat sauce.
• Lean Ground Beef – The primary protein source that brings heartiness; can be replaced with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
• Italian Seasoning – Infuses the meat sauce with aromatic herby flavors.
• Granulated Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor; fresh garlic is a great substitute if you want a stronger taste.
• Marinara Sauce – Provides moisture and delicious tomato flavor; opt for your favorite jarred or homemade version for best results.
• Ricotta Cheese – The creamy core of your cheese layer; consider cottage cheese for an extra protein boost if desired.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder for the cheese mixture, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a delightful cheesy layer on top.
• Parmesan Cheese – Offers a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the topping.
• Freshly Ground Pepper – Adds a touch of mild heat and complements the dish’s flavors.

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients as you whip up this comforting and satisfying Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Beef!

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Beef

Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for baking your casserole.
Prepare Spaghetti Squash: Carefully slice the squash into rounds and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway, until the strands can be separated easily with a fork.
Cook Meat Sauce: In a Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and a pinch of salt, cooking until softened. Next, add in the lean ground beef, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Stir in your choice of marinara sauce.
Make Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and a few dashes of freshly ground pepper until everything is well combined and smooth.
Layer Casserole: Once the baked spaghetti squash has cooled down a bit, shred the strands and combine with half of the meat sauce. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish. Top it with the remaining meat sauce, dollop the cheese mixture over, and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing it to become beautifully browned and bubbly.
Cool Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing to make serving easier.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef Variations

Get ready to personalize your delicious casserole experience!

Lean Proteins: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal option. This twist maintains flavor while reducing fat content.
Zucchini Noodles: Instead of spaghetti squash, use zucchini noodles for a veggie-centric variation. Just sauté them briefly to soften before layering!
Cheese Medley: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as sharp cheddar or spicy pepper jack. This adds a unique flavor profile that keeps things exciting!
Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra umami and texture. They’ll perfectly complement the savory flavors of the beef.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce. This adds a delightful heat that lingers beautifully!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor. Stir them into the cheese mixture or sprinkle on top before baking for a fragrant finish.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat entirely and replace with your favorite beans or lentils. Pair with additional veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a fulfilling meal!
Sweet Twist: Incorporate a touch of diced sweet potatoes within the layers for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes nicely.

Expert Tips for Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef

Don’t Overcook: Ensure you don’t overcook the spaghetti squash; if it becomes mushy, your casserole may turn out watery. Cook until just tender.
Chill Your Ingredients: Allow the cooked meat sauce to cool slightly before layering; this will prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and ensures even baking.
Opt for Low-Sodium: If you’re watching your sodium intake, choose a low-sodium marinara sauce and consider cottage cheese instead of ricotta for our Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef.
Casserole Rest Time: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and ensure cleaner slices when serving.
Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix up your cheese! Cheddar or pepper jack can add a unique flavor to your casserole, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Storage Tips for Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef

Fridge: Store any leftover Spaghetti Squash Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a microwave until heated through.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat your casserole in the oven for a crispy top or use the microwave for quicker results. For oven reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp the cheese.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. This allows flavors to meld wonderfully!

What to Serve with Spaghetti Squash Casserole w/ Beef?

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with sides that enhance its comforting essence while balancing flavors and textures.

Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s perfect for soaking up the savory marinara sauce.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, enhancing your meal’s balance.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add a delightful crunch and nutritional goodness to your plate.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets not only offer a pop of color but also provide a nutrient-rich companion that complements the casserole perfectly.
Italian Red Wine: A smooth Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the flavors of both the beef and marinara sauce, creating a delightful dining experience.
Dessert Option – Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with this creamy coffee-flavored dessert; it brings a lovely contrast to the savory meal.

Indulge in these pairings to create a comforting, well-rounded dinner that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Beef is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 3 days in advance by following the first five steps and then refrigerating it covered. To maintain its quality, make sure to keep the sauce and cheese components well-contained to prevent drying out or souring. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats all the way through. This makes weeknight dinners easier, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!

Spaghetti Squash Casserole with Beef Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting spaghetti squash?
Absolutely! When choosing spaghetti squash, look for ones that are heavy for their size with a smooth, firm rind. Avoid any with soft spots or dark blemishes, which indicate overripeness. The color should be a bright yellow or creamy beige, signaling freshness!

How do I store the leftover spaghetti squash casserole?
For sure! Store any leftover Spaghetti Squash Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or in the oven for a couple of minutes until warmed through. You’ll want to savor every bite!

Can I freeze my spaghetti squash casserole?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.

What can I do if my spaghetti squash is too watery?
Great question! If your finished casserole turns out watery, it might be that the spaghetti squash was overcooked or had excess moisture. To avoid this, bake the squash until just tender, then let it sit upside down on paper towels for about 15 minutes to drain off any excess moisture.

Is this casserole suitable for someone with dairy allergies?
Very much so! For those with dairy allergies, you can easily adapt this recipe. Look for dairy-free alternatives like almond milk ricotta and dairy-free mozzarella. Just ensure all your sauces and ingredients are dairy-free as well.

How can I add extra flavor to my casserole?
The more the merrier! If you want to elevate flavors, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or chopped bell peppers to your meat sauce. You could also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a delicious twist!