Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole is a delicious, low-carb twist on classic pizza flavors. This comforting dish combines tender spaghetti squash with savory tomato sauce and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

• Pre-cooked spaghetti squash (cooked in Instant Pot or preferred method)
• Pasta sauce (your favorite kind)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded

Optional add-ins:

• Pre-cooked meat (such as sausage or ground beef)
• Chopped mushrooms
• Sliced olives
• Chopped vegetables (bell peppers, onions, etc.)
• Italian seasoning
• Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Place the pre-cooked spaghetti squash in a 9×9 inch baking dish, or larger if you have more squash.
3. Step 3: Stir in the pasta sauce and any optional add-ins you like, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese and, if using, some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
5. Step 5: Bake the casserole for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the squash is heated through.
6. Step 6: For a crispy, browned cheese topping, switch your oven to broil for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Add fresh basil or oregano after baking for a bright, herbal note.
• Try turkey or plant-based meat substitutes to keep it lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
• Roast the spaghetti squash with garlic for added depth before assembling the casserole.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm throughout. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spaghetti squash without pre-cooking it?

It’s best to cook the spaghetti squash first, as it won’t bake properly if raw. Pre-cooking softens the squash and makes it easier to mix with sauce and cheese.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot to cook the squash?

You can bake the spaghetti squash in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes, or microwave it until tender. Either method works well before assembling the casserole.

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 86 reviews

This Spaghetti Squash Pizza Casserole is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pizza. Using pre-cooked spaghetti squash as the base, combined with your favorite pasta sauce, cheese, and optional add-ins like meats and veggies, this casserole is baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. It’s a satisfying, low-carb meal that’s simple to prepare and customizable to your taste.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Pre-cooked spaghetti squash (cooked in Instant Pot or preferred method)
• Pasta sauce (any variety, amount to taste)
• Mozzarella cheese (1 to 2 cups, shredded)

Optional Add-Ins

• Pre-cooked meat (such as sausage or ground beef, 1 cup)
• Chopped mushrooms (1/2 cup)
• Sliced olives (1/4 cup)
• Chopped veggies (bell peppers, onions, etc., 1/2 cup)
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Prepare Squash in Baking Dish: Place the pre-cooked spaghetti squash into a 9×9 inch baking dish, or a larger dish if you have more squash.
3. Add Sauce and Mix Add-ins: Stir in pasta sauce to coat the squash. If using any optional add-ins such as pre-cooked meat, chopped mushrooms, olives, or veggies, fold them into the mixture now along with Italian seasoning.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Optionally, add grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
5. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and the squash is heated through thoroughly.
6. Optional Broil: For a crispy, browned cheese finish, switch the oven setting to broil for 3-5 minutes after baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

• You can cook the spaghetti squash ahead of time in an Instant Pot, oven, or microwave to speed up preparation.
• Adjust the amount of pasta sauce and cheese to your preference for sauciness and cheesiness.
• Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or meats to adapt the casserole to your taste or diet.
• Using low-fat cheese or reduced sodium pasta sauce can make this dish lighter and healthier.
• Keep an eye on the casserole when broiling as cheese can brown quickly and burn.

Keywords: spaghetti squash casserole, pizza casserole, healthy casserole, baked casserole, low-carb casserole, veggie casserole, Italian casserole, easy dinner recipe