Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both delicious and healthy, this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is just the ticket! It’s one of my absolute favorites because it takes the classic carbonara and gives it a wholesome twist. Instead of traditional pasta, we’re using spaghetti squash, which creates those delightful “noodles” that soak up all the rich flavors. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or gathering with family, this recipe brings everyone together around the table with its smoky goodness.

This dish is not only a fantastic way to enjoy spaghetti squash but also a wonderful option for those who want to indulge without the carbs. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love this creamy and flavorful dish—perfect for the whole family!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the spaghetti squash in advance and just combine everything when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon (or turkey strips), garlic, and parmesan creates a comforting bowl of goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack in flavor without any fuss. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 4 Pounds Spaghetti Squash (about 2 small or 1 large)

For the Carbonara Sauce

• 2 Egg Yolks (room temperature)
• 2 Eggs (room temperature)
• 4 oz Parmesan (Finely Grated)

For the Bacon Mixture

• 12 ounces Bacon (roughly chopped; you can also use turkey strips)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

To Serve

• Parsley (chopped to serve)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to swap out ingredients or add your favorite flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using chicken or turkey strips for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: If you prefer something different, use pecorino cheese instead of parmesan for a tangy twist.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if your taste buds are craving something spicy!

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Roasting spaghetti squash brings out its natural sweetness and makes it tender. Slice your squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet—optionally lined with parchment paper—and bake until fork-tender, about 30-45 minutes depending on size.

Step 2: Shred the Squash

Once your spaghetti squash is perfectly roasted and cool enough to handle, flip it over. Use a fork to shred it into beautiful strands that resemble pasta. This step is crucial because these strands will serve as our base for that creamy carbonara sauce!

Step 3: Whisk Together Eggs and Cheese

In a medium bowl, whisk together your room-temperature eggs, egg yolks, and finely grated parmesan until well combined. This mixture will create that luscious sauce we’re after! Setting it aside allows flavors to meld while we cook our bacon.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon and Garlic

Heat your skillet over medium heat—make sure it’s big enough for all that delicious spaghetti squash! Add your chopped bacon (or turkey) and sauté until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The fat released will flavor our dish beautifully! Once crispy, add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant; we don’t want burnt garlic here!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add your shredded spaghetti squash into the skillet with bacon and garlic. Toss everything together gently so that every strand gets coated in that smoky goodness! Sprinkle in kosher salt to enhance flavors.

Step 6: Create Your Creamy Sauce

Remove your pan from heat completely—this is important! Using tongs, toss the spaghetti squash mixture while slowly pouring in your egg combo. The residual heat will cook the eggs gently without scrambling them. You want that creamy texture!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Plate your scrumptious spaghetti squash carbonara with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Enjoy each comforting bite knowing you’ve made a healthy version of this classic dish!

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Creating a delicious spaghetti squash carbonara is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Choose the right squash: Opt for spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, unblemished skin. This ensures you get the best flavor and texture.

• Don’t skip cooling: Allowing the cooked spaghetti squash to cool before shredding prevents it from becoming mushy. You want those beautiful strands to maintain their structure!

• Mix off heat: Always combine your egg mixture with the spaghetti squash off the heat. This prevents scrambling and allows the eggs to create a creamy sauce that clings to each strand.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices, like a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh basil, for an extra flavor boost. These little additions can elevate your dish’s taste profile.

• Make it a meal prep star: This recipe stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy leftovers!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Serving your spaghetti squash carbonara beautifully can enhance both its appeal and enjoyment. Here are some ideas to present this comforting bowl of goodness!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Extra grated Parmesan: A light sprinkle of cheese on top can enhance both taste and presentation, making it even more indulgent.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper can add a delightful kick and improve overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of carbonara.
• Garlic Bread: Warm slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate—comfort food at its finest!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition while complementing the main dish beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli: This classic side is not only nutritious but also offers a lovely crunch that pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta dishes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your spaghetti squash carbonara will be not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, you can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the carbonara to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the carbonara is fully cooled before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara:

Can I use different types of squash for this recipe?

While spaghetti squash works best for its noodle-like texture, you can experiment with other squash varieties. However, results may vary in taste and consistency.

How do I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara creamy without cream?

The creaminess in Spaghetti Squash Carbonara comes from the combination of egg yolks and Parmesan cheese. This technique creates a rich sauce without needing heavy cream, keeping the dish light yet satisfying.

Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara suitable for keto diets?

Yes! This dish is low in carbs due to the use of spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta, making it an excellent choice for keto dinners.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for that smoky flavor while keeping it meat-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to enjoy comfort food without all the carbs. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered. Have fun in the kitchen and savor every bite—happy cooking!

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