Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

If you’re looking for a delightful, healthy twist on a classic dish, then you’re in for a treat with this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara! This recipe transforms the beloved carbonara into a lighter version using spaghetti squash, which is not only lower in carbs but also adds a wonderful texture to this comfort food favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, and it’s also great for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a bowl of smoky goodness.

One of the reasons this dish holds a special place in my heart is its ability to bring people together. The rich flavors combined with the warmth of home-cooked meals make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this dish comes together quickly – perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even the pickiest eaters will love the comforting flavors of this spaghetti squash carbonara.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the spaghetti squash ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon, garlic, and creamy parmesan creates a rich taste that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This spaghetti squash carbonara uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious meal!

For the Spaghetti Squash and Sauce

• 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 Extras

• 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

What I love about this spaghetti squash carbonara is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If bacon isn’t your thing, try using turkey strips or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
• Experiment with cheeses: Swap out parmesan for pecorino romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick!

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that our squash will roast perfectly. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Lay them cut side down on a baking sheet (you can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup). Bake until fork-tender—about 30-45 minutes depending on size. This roasting process enhances its natural sweetness.

Step 2: Shred the Squash

Once your spaghetti squash is fork-tender, flip it over and let it cool slightly. Use a fork to shred the flesh into noodle-like strands. This step is crucial because these “noodles” will serve as the base of our dish!

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 creamy sauce that coats our noodles beautifully once we add it later.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

Heat a skillet over medium heat while ensuring it’s large enough to accommodate all that delicious squash! Add your chopped bacon and sauté until crispy—about 5-7 minutes—then stir in minced garlic until fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add your shredded spaghetti squash along with salt into the skillet with bacon and garlic. Toss everything together until heated through. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Mix in Egg Mixture

Remove the pan from heat completely! This is important so that we don’t scramble those lovely eggs. With tongs, toss the squash while slowly pouring in that egg-cheese mixture. The residual heat will cook the eggs gently, creating that creamy texture we adore.

Step 7: Serve Up Your Creation

Plate your spaghetti squash carbonara with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of spaghetti squash carbonara that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Creating the perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table!

• Choose the right squash: Look for firm, heavy spaghetti squashes with a smooth skin. This ensures you get the best texture and flavor from your dish.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the baked squash to cool completely before shredding helps prevent it from becoming mushy, ensuring that your noodles maintain their integrity.
• Toss off the heat: It’s crucial to combine the egg mixture with the squash off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs. This way, you’ll achieve that creamy, luscious sauce you’re aiming for!
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper levels according to your preference. Each spaghetti squash can vary in sweetness, so tasting is key!
• Save some pasta water: If your carbonara seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water (or a little vegetable broth) to loosen it up without losing flavor.

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Serving this dish is as much about presentation as it is about flavor! A few thoughtful touches can make your meal feel extra special.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the carbonara.
• Additional parmesan: Grating extra parmesan on top just before serving elevates both taste and presentation, making each bite a cheesy delight.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds slight heat but also enhances visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is always a favorite. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini adds color and nutrients while providing a nice contrast in textures.
• Simple Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing side that cuts through the richness of carbonara.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with balsamic reduction brings an elegant touch and pairs well with the dish’s flavors.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara will not only taste amazing but also look incredible on your dinner table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store it for those busy weeknights or lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the Spaghetti Squash Carbonara cool fully.
• 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 low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Spaghetti Squash Carbonara that might help you out!

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey bacon or even smoked tempeh for a plant-based option, giving you that smoky flavor without any pork.

How do I cook spaghetti squash for the best texture?

For the best texture, bake the spaghetti squash until fork-tender and then shred it gently. This ensures you get those perfect noodle-like strands ideal for your carbonara.

Can I prepare Spaghetti Squash Carbonara in advance?

Yes! You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute that melts well. This will still give you that cheesy flavor without using dairy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Spaghetti Squash Carbonara as much as I do! It’s not just a healthier alternative; it brings comfort food right to your table without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!