Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting dish that’s also light on carbs, then you’ve come to the right place! This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is one of my absolute favorites. It takes the traditional carbonara and gives it a delightful twist by using spaghetti squash instead of pasta. The result is a smoky, rich bowl of goodness that feels indulgent without the heavy carbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish will impress everyone at your table.

Not only is it scrumptious, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, you can whip it up in no time! Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just want something that feels special, this recipe has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have dinner on the table in under an hour!
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the flavors and textures of this dish.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep your spaghetti squash in advance and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
• Low-carb goodness: Enjoy all the comfort of carbonara without the guilt of traditional pasta.
• Deliciously smoky flavor: The bacon adds a depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to find that this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you need:

For the Main Dish

• 4 Pounds Spaghetti Squash (about 2 small or 1 large)
• 2 Egg Yolks (room temperature)
• 2 Eggs (room temperature)
• 4 oz Parmesan (finely grated)
• 12 ounces Bacon (roughly chopped; you can also use turkey strips)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• Parsley (chopped to serve)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to personalize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra creamy texture.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for some heat if you enjoy a little kick!

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. If you’re concerned about clean-up, lining your baking sheet with parchment paper can save you some time later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Slice your spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out any seeds. Laying them flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet allows them to roast beautifully. Bake until fork-tender—this usually takes about 30-45 minutes depending on size.

Step 3: Shred the Squash

Once your spaghetti squash is cooked through and cool enough to handle, take a fork and gently shred the flesh into “noodles.” This step is crucial as it transforms our squash into perfect little strands that mimic traditional pasta.

Step 4: Whisk Together Eggs and Cheese

In a medium bowl, whisk together room-temperature eggs, egg yolks, and finely grated Parmesan until well combined. This mixture will create that signature creamy texture we love about carbonara!

Step 5: Cook the Bacon and Garlic

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add your chopped bacon. Sauté until crispy—about 5-7 minutes—and then add in minced garlic until fragrant. This step adds layers of flavor that will permeate throughout your dish.

Step 6: Combine Everything Off Heat

Once your bacon is crispy, remove the skillet from heat entirely. Add your shredded spaghetti squash along with kosher salt and mix everything well. Now comes the fun part! While tossing with tongs, slowly pour in your egg mixture so it coats everything evenly without scrambling.

Step 7: Serve Up Your Creation

Plate up your delicious Spaghetti Squash Carbonara with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

This dish will surely become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Making a delicious Spaghetti Squash Carbonara can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose ripe spaghetti squash: Look for squashes that are firm and have a uniform yellow color. A ripe squash will yield the best texture and flavor for your dish.
• Use room temperature eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature before whisking them helps create a creamier sauce when combined with the hot spaghetti squash. This ensures a smoother consistency and prevents the eggs from scrambling.
• Don’t skip the resting step: Allowing the pan to cool slightly after cooking the bacon before adding the egg mixture is crucial. This step helps prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly, which can lead to a clumpy texture instead of a silky sauce.
• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste your dish as you go along! Depending on your bacon or turkey strips, you may need more or less salt to balance out flavors. Remember, you can always add more salt, but it’s tough to take it away once added.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize your carbonara by adding in your favorite vegetables or herbs! Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes could all bring an exciting twist to this classic dish.

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

When it comes to presenting your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, there are plenty of ways to make it visually appealing and enjoyable for everyone at the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness and flavor.
• Extra grated Parmesan: Adding more cheese on top just before serving gives an indulgent finish that cheese lovers will appreciate.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and depth, elevating the overall taste profile of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with Italian-inspired dishes; crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your spaghetti squash carbonara.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the carbonara. Try arugula or spinach mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrients while complementing the smoky flavors of the carbonara.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that pairs well with this dish’s flavors while adding vibrant color to your plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your beautiful and delicious Spaghetti Squash Carbonara! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is not only a delightful meal but also perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead and stored for quick weeknight dinners or packed lunches.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the spaghetti squash carbonara cool down before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note: the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara:

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or a plant-based alternative to maintain that smoky flavor without using meat.

How do I achieve a creamy texture in my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

The combination of egg yolks and grated Parmesan creates a creamy sauce when mixed with the warm spaghetti squash. Just remember to mix off the heat!

Can I customize the ingredients in my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or use your favorite herbs to enhance flavors.

What can I serve with Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

A light side salad or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings comfort while keeping things healthy. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!