Spaghetti Squash and Turkey Meatballs: A Healthy and Delicious Dinner

ByMike Thompson Turkey Cooking

Spaghetti Squash and Turkey Meatballs: A Healthy and Delicious Dinner

Spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional spaghetti and meatballs. Spaghetti squash is a low-carb, high-fiber vegetable that is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Turkey meatballs are a lean protein that are packed with flavor. When combined, these two ingredients make a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

This recipe is easy to make and can be on the table in just 30 minutes. It is also a great way to use up leftover turkey. Serve the spaghetti squash and meatballs with your favorite marinara sauce and a side of salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

* 1 spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
* 1/2 cup chopped carrot
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the skin is slightly browned.
3. While the squash is baking, prepare the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, onion, bell pepper, carrot, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Form the turkey mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
6. Add the meatballs to the baking sheet with the spaghetti squash. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and squash.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
8. Serve immediately.

Ingredient Quantity Instructions
Spaghetti squash 1 medium Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, and scoop out seeds. Place cut side down on a baking sheet, and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
Ground turkey 1 pound In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
Tomato sauce 1 jar Pour tomato sauce into a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup Serve spaghetti squash with meatballs and tomato sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

* 1 large spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Olive oil for cooking

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
3. While the squash is baking, prepare the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, Parmesan cheese, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Form the meatball mixture into 1-inch balls.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
6. Transfer the meatballs to the baking sheet with the squash and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve the meatballs and squash immediately, topped with your favorite sauce.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs are a healthy and delicious meal that the whole family will love. They are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Serve them with your favorite sauce, vegetables, or salad.

Ingredients

* 1 medium spaghetti squash, halved and seeded
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
* 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
* 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup marinara sauce
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
3. While the squash is baking, prepare the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, onion, carrot, celery, parsley, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Form the meatball mixture into 1-inch balls.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
6. Transfer the meatballs to the baking sheet with the squash. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Tips

* To make the meatballs ahead of time, cook them according to the directions and then store them in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat, bake the meatballs in a preheated 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
* If you don’t have a spaghetti squash, you can use any type of pasta. Just cook the pasta according to the package directions and then toss it with the meatballs and marinara sauce.
* For a vegetarian version, omit the ground turkey and use a plant-based meat substitute.
* You can also add your favorite vegetables to the meatballs, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Variations

* For a healthier version, use ground turkey breast instead of ground turkey.
* To make the meatballs gluten-free, use a gluten-free breadcrumb or oat flour.
* To make the meatballs dairy-free, use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese.
* For a different flavor, use a different type of marinara sauce. You could also try a pesto sauce, a red wine sauce, or a white wine sauce.
* Serve the meatballs with your favorite sides, such as salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthy meal that the whole family will love. They are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs a try!

Q: What is spaghetti squash?
A: Spaghetti squash is a winter squash that is shaped like a large, elongated pear. When cooked, the flesh separates into long strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. Spaghetti squash is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium and magnesium. It is also low in calories and fat.

Q: How do I cook spaghetti squash?
A: To cook spaghetti squash, cut it in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape the flesh into long strands.

Q: What are some ways to use spaghetti squash?
A: Spaghetti squash can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Here are a few ideas:

* Sweet:
* Make a spaghetti squash casserole with marinara sauce, cheese, and vegetables.
* Top spaghetti squash with fruit and yogurt for a healthy and refreshing breakfast.
* Make a spaghetti squash pudding with milk, eggs, and sugar.
* Savory:
* Toss spaghetti squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast for a simple side dish.
* Make spaghetti squash meatballs with turkey, vegetables, and marinara sauce.
* Use spaghetti squash in place of noodles in soups, stews, and chili.

Q: What are the benefits of eating spaghetti squash?
A: Spaghetti squash is a healthy and versatile vegetable that is low in calories and fat. It is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Eating spaghetti squash can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your overall health.

Q: Are there any disadvantages to eating spaghetti squash?
A: There are no known disadvantages to eating spaghetti squash. However, it is important to note that spaghetti squash is a high-fiber food, so it may cause some people to experience gas or bloating. If you are sensitive to fiber, you may want to start by eating small portions of spaghetti squash and gradually increase your intake over time.

Q: Where can I find spaghetti squash?
A: Spaghetti squash is available in most grocery stores. It is typically found in the produce section, near other winter squashes. You can also find spaghetti squash at farmers markets and specialty stores.

Spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional spaghetti and meatballs. They are both low in carbs and calories, but they are still packed with flavor. Spaghetti squash is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and turkey meatballs are a good source of protein. This dish is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

* Spaghetti squash is a great low-carb alternative to pasta.
* Turkey meatballs are a healthy and flavorful way to add protein to your diet.
* Spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a healthy lifestyle.

If you are looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional spaghetti and meatballs, give spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs a try! You will not be disappointed.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!