Baked Spaghetti Squash Parmesan

Baked Spaghetti Squash Parmesan is a lighter, wholesome twist on the classic Italian-American eggplant or chicken Parmesan. Spaghetti squash, once roasted, naturally separates into tender strands that resemble pasta, making it a popular low-carb alternative embraced in modern home cooking. This dish brings together traditional comfort-food flavors—tomato sauce, melted cheese, and savory seasoning—while highlighting the mild, slightly sweet character of spaghetti squash.

As the squash bakes, its strands become tender yet structured enough to hold rich marinara sauce and layers of cheese. Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, the dish develops a golden, bubbly crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft squash beneath. Herbs such as basil or oregano enhance the savory notes, creating a satisfying balance of freshness and indulgence without feeling heavy.

Baked Spaghetti Squash Parmesan is both comforting and versatile, ideal as a vegetarian main dish or a hearty side. It pairs well with a crisp salad or garlic bread and fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. This recipe showcases how classic flavors can be reimagined in a lighter, vegetable-forward way while still delivering the warmth and satisfaction of a traditional baked Parmesan dish.

Baked Spaghetti Squash Parmesan

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Baked Spaghetti Squash Parmesan is a lighter, wholesome twist on the classic Italian-American eggplant or chicken Parmesan. Spaghetti squash, once roasted, naturally separates into tender strands that resemble pasta, making it a popular low-carb alternative embraced in modern home cooking. This dish brings together traditional comfort-food flavors—tomato sauce, melted cheese, and savory seasoning—while highlighting the mild, slightly sweet character of spaghetti squash.

As the squash bakes, its strands become tender yet structured enough to hold rich marinara sauce and layers of cheese. Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, the dish develops a golden, bubbly crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft squash beneath. Herbs such as basil or oregano enhance the savory notes, creating a satisfying balance of freshness and indulgence without feeling heavy.

Baked Spaghetti Squash Parmesan is both comforting and versatile, ideal as a vegetarian main dish or a hearty side. It pairs well with a crisp salad or garlic bread and fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. This recipe showcases how classic flavors can be reimagined in a lighter, vegetable-forward way while still delivering the warmth and satisfaction of a traditional baked Parmesan dish.

• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 3-4 1x

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large spaghetti squash
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 salt salt
• 1/2 pepper
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce, divided
• 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and diced in cubes, divided
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, divided
• 1/2 Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chiffonade

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F.  Line a baking pan with parchment paper
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half, lengthwise.  Brush cut side with olive oil.  Place flat side down on baking pan.  Bake for 1 hour, until the strands easily fall apart from the shell.
3. Remove from the oven and discard the seeds.  Using a fork and a heat proof mitt, stir the strands to separate them in the shell.
4. Add a  salt and pepper.  Add half the chicken to each squash half.  Then top half the marinara sauce per squash half.  Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on each half.  Then sprinkle the breadcrumbs on each half.  Now, add the Parmesan cheese on each half.
5. Place the squash back in the oven, and bake until the marinara sauce is fully heated and the cheese is melted, about 12 minutes.
6. Remove from oven, sprinkle basil on each half and serve.

• Author: Recipe Maker
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Main Dishes
• Cuisine: Italian Recipes