Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

If you’re looking for a comforting and nutritious twist on a classic dish, you’ve found it with this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara! This recipe transforms the traditional carbonara into a light yet satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the guilt. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings everyone together around the table, filling your home with delicious aromas.

What I love most about this spaghetti squash carbonara is how it captures the essence of comfort food while keeping things healthy. Whether you’re trying to eat low-carb or just want something hearty and delicious, this recipe has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The smoky flavor of bacon and creamy sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Low-Carb Delight: This dish takes the carbs out of carbonara while keeping all the flavor intact.
• Make-Ahead Option: Pre-cook the spaghetti squash and store it in the fridge for a quick weeknight dinner!
• Rich Flavor: Enjoy the savory notes from garlic and parmesan that make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome components that create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

For the Base

• 4 Pounds Spaghetti Squash (about 2 small or 1 large)
• 2 Egg Yolks (room temperature)
• 2 Eggs (room temperature)
• 4 oz Parmesan (finely grated)

For the Flavor

• 12 ounces Bacon (roughly chopped; turkey strips are a great alternative!)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• Parsley (chopped, to serve)

Variations

One of the best things about this spaghetti squash carbonara is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like some heat.
• Change the cheese: Try using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that’s still packed with flavor.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will make cleanup easier later on!

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Slice your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out those seeds. Place them flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet. Bake until fork-tender—this usually takes about 30-45 minutes depending on size. This step is crucial because it helps create those lovely noodle-like strands!

Step 3: Shred the Spaghetti Squash

Once your squash is tender, carefully flip it over and let it cool slightly. When it’s cool enough to handle, grab a fork and start shredding those strands. It’s so satisfying to see those noodles form!

Step 4: Whisk Together Your Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together your room-temperature eggs, yolks, and finely grated parmesan until well combined. This mixture will create that creamy texture we love in carbonara.

Step 5: Cook Your Bacon and Garlic

Heat up a skillet over medium heat—make sure it’s large enough to hold all that spaghetti squash! Add in your chopped bacon and cook until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. This step adds so much depth of flavor!

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to add the shredded spaghetti squash into your skillet along with the kosher salt. Toss everything together so that those rich flavors coat each strand beautifully.

Step 7: Finish Off Your Dish

Remove your pan completely from heat. Using tongs, gently toss everything while slowly pouring in your egg mixture. It’s important not to have any direct heat at this stage; we want a creamy sauce without scrambling our eggs!

Step 8: Serve Up!

Plate your spaghetti squash carbonara with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and more parmesan if desired. Enjoy every mouthful of this comforting bowl of goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Making this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara can be a delightful experience, especially with these helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right squash: Opt for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size; this usually indicates it’s fresh and has good flavor. A firm squash will yield better texture when cooked.
• Use room temperature eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them combine more smoothly with the other ingredients, ensuring a creamier sauce that clings beautifully to the squash.
• Cook bacon until crispy: Ensuring your bacon is crispy adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. The rendered fat also provides essential moisture for the carbonara sauce.
• Remove from heat before adding eggs: Taking the pan off the heat before mixing in the egg mixture prevents scrambling, allowing the residual heat to create a luscious, creamy sauce instead.
• Don’t skip the garnishes: Fresh parsley or extra parmesan not only enhances presentation but also adds layers of flavor that make each bite enjoyable!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Serving Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is as important as making it, as presentation can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to help you serve this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the carbonara.
• Additional parmesan cheese: A light dusting of grated parmesan on top just before serving adds an extra layer of savory goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic pairing is great for sopping up any leftover sauce, providing a crunchy contrast to the tender spaghetti squash.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complements the flavors of carbonara while adding nutritional variety.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a zesty dressing offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the carbonara.
• Steamed broccoli: This simple side adds vibrant color and nutrients, enhancing your meal without overpowering the main dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips at hand, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this delicious Spaghetti Squash Carbonara! Enjoy your wholesome comfort food creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara!

Can I use other types of squash instead of spaghetti squash?

While spaghetti squash creates that noodle-like texture that mimics carbonara, you can experiment with other squashes. Just remember that cooking times may vary.

What can I substitute for bacon in Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

You can use turkey strips or guanciale as great alternatives. They provide a smoky flavor while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying without using traditional bacon.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is cooked properly?

Your spaghetti squash is ready when it’s tender and the strands separate easily with a fork. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of your squash.

Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is lower in carbs compared to traditional pasta dishes and is loaded with nutrients from the spaghetti squash. It’s a comforting yet healthy meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something special for guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!