Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Spaghetti squash is a game-changer, and when paired with ground beef, it’s a match made in heaven. This humble vegetable has a unique texture that mimics spaghetti, making it the perfect substitute for traditional pasta. And let’s not forget about the flavor – roasted spaghetti squash brings out its natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the savory taste of ground beef.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious spaghetti squash recipes featuring ground beef as the star ingredient. From classic comfort foods to international twists and innovative flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a foodie looking to impress, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Stay tuned for some mouth-watering ideas that will take your meals to the next level!
Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Marinara
A creative twist on traditional spaghetti, this recipe uses roasted squash as a low-carb substitute for pasta. The combination of ground beef and marinara sauce creates a rich and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 large spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. While the squash is roasting, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
6. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
7. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the ground beef mixture on top of the roasted squash, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
A comforting twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground beef and cheese with the natural sweetness of spaghetti squash for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
5. Stuff each squash half with the meat mixture, followed by shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the edges of the squash to help seal the filling.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Ground Beef Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of ground beef, spaghetti squash, and savory seasonings, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bake the spaghetti squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Let it cool.
3. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Scoop out the cooked squash and add to the skillet; stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Mexican-Style Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef
Mexican-Style Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef: A creative twist on traditional spaghetti dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of ground beef and squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can of enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Pour in enchilada sauce and stir to combine.
6. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet and spoon the ground beef mixture over the squash.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spaghetti Squash and Ground Beef Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines the comfort of ground beef with the nutritional benefits of spaghetti squash. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook the squash in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
6. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
7. Stir in dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the ground beef mixture over the cooked spaghetti squash.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Veggie Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce with the nutritious goodness of spaghetti squash. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, spinach, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each squash half with the meat mixture, topping with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until squash is tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna with Ground Beef
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this recipe replaces noodles with spaghetti squash and adds ground beef for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bake the spaghetti squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. In a separate bowl, combine marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of meat mixture, followed by a layer of squash, then a layer of marinara-mozzarella mixture. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of squash on top.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top layer and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Bolognese with Ground Beef
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs, featuring roasted spaghetti squash instead of pasta. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of ground beef and tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
4. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Scoop out the cooked squash flesh with a fork, creating spaghetti-like strands.
7. Combine cooked squash and meat sauce in a serving dish. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ground Beef and Mushroom Spaghetti Squash Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, and tender spaghetti squash. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and bake for 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Remove the squash from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Use a fork to scrape out the squash flesh, leaving the skin intact.
8. Add the ground beef mixture to the squash and top with Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Pesto
This creative twist on spaghetti Bolognese swaps traditional pasta for roasted squash, adding a nutritious and flavorful spin to the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stir in pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the ground beef mixture on top of the roasted squash, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Tacos with Ground Beef
Elevate your taco game with this unique recipe that combines the flavors of traditional tacos with the nutritional benefits of spaghetti squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. While the squash is roasting, cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
6. Stir in taco seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the squash is done, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
8. Assemble tacos by placing cooked ground beef mixture onto a tortilla, topping with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ground Beef and Spinach Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines flavorful ground beef and spinach with the nutty sweetness of spaghetti squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each squash half with the ground beef mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each squash.
7. Place stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and mist with cooking spray or brush with oil.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until squash is tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef
This creative twist on the classic shepherd’s pie combines the flavors of ground beef and mashed spaghetti squash for a healthier, low-carb alternative. The result is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Bake spaghetti squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and oregano to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Fluff cooked spaghetti squash with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Alfredo Sauce
Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Alfredo Sauce: A creative twist on traditional spaghetti Bolognese, this recipe uses roasted spaghetti squash as the base for a rich and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Place squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook ground beef and onion in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
5. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in Alfredo sauce and bring to a simmer.
7. Combine cooked squash and meat sauce; season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Spaghetti Squash Boats
Transform traditional spaghetti into a nutritious and flavorful squash boat dish, packed with ground beef and zucchini. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium-sized zucchini, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced zucchini, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each squash half with the meat and vegetable mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each squash boat and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole with Ground Beef
Transform traditional pizza night into a healthier, flavorful experience with this innovative casserole recipe. By using spaghetti squash instead of noodles and ground beef for added protein, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the spaghetti squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Cut the cooked spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh to create strands.
7. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine ground beef mixture, spaghetti squash strands, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Black Beans
This recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti squash with the bold flavors of ground beef and black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
5. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each squash half with the ground beef mixture and black beans.
7. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender.
8. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Quinoa Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
This recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti squash with the flavors of ground beef and quinoa, making for a hearty and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium spaghetti squash
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
6. Stuff each squash half with the ground beef mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 savory spaghetti squash recipes featuring ground beef! From classic combinations like Spaghetti Squash with Ground Beef and Marinara to creative twists like Spaghetti Squash Tacos with Ground Beef, there’s something for everyone. Try stuffing the squash with cheesy goodness or making a casserole with ground beef and mushrooms. With a variety of flavors and textures, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking and enjoy a delicious meal.
