Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a comforting, low-carb dish that turns a humble squash into a hearty, satisfying meal. Roasted spaghetti squash is filled with a rich blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and vibrant veggies—all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect dinner when you want something cozy, cheesy, and packed with flavor without the heaviness of pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A healthy alternative to traditional pasta bakes
• Packed with protein and flavor
• Low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly
• Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and cheeses
• Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners
• Combines the comfort of cheese and sausage with the lightness of squash
• Kid-friendly and satisfying for the whole family
• Great for using up extra veggies in your fridge
• Impressive enough for guests but easy enough for weeknights
• Ready in under an hour

ingredients

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

• Spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Italian sausage (mild or spicy), removed from casing
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Baby spinach or kale
• Cream cheese or ricotta
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place cut side down on the baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the squash bakes, cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove excess grease if needed.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. Once squash is roasted, use a fork to shred the inside into spaghetti-like strands, leaving the shell intact.
7. Mix some of the shredded squash into the sausage mixture, then spoon it back into the squash shells.
8. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Return to oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–4 and takes about 50–55 minutes total — 10–15 minutes prep and 35–40 minutes cook time.

Variations

• Use turkey sausage for a leaner option
• Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
• Use ricotta instead of cream cheese for a lighter filling
• Make it spicy with hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina
• Add a spoonful of marinara for a pizza-inspired twist
• Make it vegetarian by using plant-based sausage

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the sausage mixture separately and fill freshly roasted squash later.

FAQs

Can I cook the squash ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the squash in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake when ready.

Is spaghetti squash really like spaghetti?

It has a tender, stringy texture that resembles spaghetti but is lighter and slightly sweet.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely—just use a plant-based sausage or a mix of mushrooms and beans instead.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but feel free to use a mix of your favorite cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or gouda.

Do I need to peel spaghetti squash?

No, the skin softens during roasting and acts as a natural bowl for serving.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and shredded plant-based cheese.

Can I freeze the stuffed squash?

It’s best to freeze the filling separately. The squash itself can become watery after thawing.

How do I know when the squash is done roasting?

It should be fork-tender, and the inside will shred easily into strands.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, just chop and reheat with the onions and garlic before combining with the rest of the ingredients.

What can I serve with it?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make great sides.

Conclusion

Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is the perfect blend of cozy and clean eating. With all the savory, cheesy goodness of a pasta bake and none of the carb overload, this dish is a win for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing your guests. One bite and you’ll be hooked on this easy, satisfying squash makeover.

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