Spaghetti Squash Marinara Clara quick dinners

Spaghetti Squash Marinara is a wholesome, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Roasted spaghetti squash is scraped into tender strands and topped with a rich, garlicky marinara sauce for a satisfying, guilt-free meal. It’s simple to make, naturally gluten-free, and a fantastic way to get more veggies into your routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-carb and gluten-free
• A healthier alternative to traditional spaghetti
• Rich, homemade (or store-bought) marinara sauce
• Perfect for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners
• Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Can be made vegan or vegetarian
• Easy to double for meal prep or larger groups
• Customizable with proteins or cheese
• Simple ingredients, big flavor

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti squash (medium size)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Crushed tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
• Onion (optional, finely chopped)
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
• Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Carefully cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 3540 minutes, until tender.
5. While squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Sauté minced garlic (and onion if using) for 12 minutes until fragrant.
7. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 1520 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Once squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
9. Serve the squash in bowls or in the shell, topped with marinara sauce and cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 as a main or 4 as a side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked ground turkey, beef, sausage, or lentils to the marinara.
• Cheesy Bake: Top with mozzarella and broil for 23 minutes until bubbly.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced chili to the sauce.
• Vegan Version: Skip cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Pesto Twist: Replace marinara with pesto for a new flavor profile.
• Herb-Loaded: Add extra fresh basil, thyme, or oregano.
• Mushroom Marinara: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for extra umami.
• Stuffed Style: Serve the squash halves filled with sauce and toppings, then bake for 10 minutes.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover squash and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat squash and sauce separately in the microwave or skillet, then combine to serve.
• Freezing: The marinara sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cooked squash is best fresh, but it can be frozen—note the texture may become slightly watery upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done?

It’s ready when the flesh easily pulls into strands with a fork and is tender to the touch.

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Yes, choose a good-quality marinara for convenience. You can enhance it with garlic or herbs for added flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, roast the squash and prepare the sauce in advance. Store separately and combine when ready to serve.

Is spaghetti squash healthy?

Absolutely. It’s low in calories and carbs and rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.

What does spaghetti squash taste like?

It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a tender-crisp texture, making it a great base for sauces.

Can I cook spaghetti squash in the microwave?

Yes. Microwave cut-side down in a dish with water for 1012 minutes, until tender.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, just use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

How do I prevent watery spaghetti squash?

After roasting, let it cool slightly and drain any excess moisture before serving.

What are the best toppings for this dish?

Fresh basil, grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or a dollop of ricotta all work beautifully.

Can I use other squash varieties?

Spaghetti squash is unique for its noodle-like strands, but you can use similar prep with acorn or butternut for different textures.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Squash Marinara is a flavorful, veggie-forward dish that’s perfect for anyone seeking a lighter take on classic Italian comfort food. It’s simple to prepare, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your taste. Whether you’re watching carbs, going gluten-free, or just looking for a tasty new meal, this dish is a must-try.

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