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Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs and Marinara

Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs and Marinara

Autumn Jene's avatarAutumn Jene
Meatballs and marinara over roasted spaghetti squash instead of pasta. Grain-free, high-protein, and $2.54 a serving.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6
Calories 524 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Festive Ground Turkey
  • 1 lb Ground Beef (85% lean)
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 Spaghetti Squash
  • 1 jar Great Value Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce (24 oz)
  • 12 oz Thin Sliced Provolone Cheese (12 slices)

Instructions
 

  • Make the meatballs: Combine the ground turkey, ground beef, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Mix gently just until combined — overmixing makes meatballs dense and tough. Form into evenly sized meatballs and place on a baking sheet. If the mixture feels sticky, lightly oil your hands rather than adding breadcrumbs.
  • Bake the meatballs: Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, until browned outside, firm to the touch, and 165°F internally. Set aside, reserving a small amount of the pan drippings.
    💡 Tip: If you don't have a meat thermometer, these will finish cooking in the sauce. Bake until firm on the outside and no pink shows on the inside.
  • Roast the spaghetti squash: While the meatballs bake, cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with a little of the reserved meatball fat — this adds richness and keeps the squash from tasting watery. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F for 35–45 minutes, until a fork pulls the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. Undercooked squash won't shred properly and turns mushy instead of stringy.
  • Heat the sauce: Warm the marinara in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the meatballs and simmer 5–10 minutes so they absorb flavor and stay juicy.
  • Assemble: Shred the squash into strands with a fork. Top with marinara and meatballs, add the provolone, and let it melt slightly before serving.

Video

Notes

Nutrition estimated with Cronometer.
Keyword budget dinner, grain free, low carb meatballs, spaghetti squash, spaghetti squash meatballs