Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Take the carb out of carbonara with virtuous shredded “noodles.” This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is rich and smoky comfort-in-a-bowl. Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or a cozy night in, this dish brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. You’ll enjoy its creamy texture and satisfying flavors while keeping your meals light and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Spaghetti squash offers a low-carb substitute for traditional pasta, making it perfect for those seeking lighter options.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and garlic brings a smoky essence that elevates the entire meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this spaghetti squash carbonara as a main course, side dish, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the fun noodle-like strands of spaghetti squash!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your spaghetti squash carbonara, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Fork
• Medium bowl
• Large skillet
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the spaghetti squash, ensuring proper cooking.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through tough spaghetti squash easier and safer.
• Large skillet: Allows enough space to sauté turkey bacon and combine all ingredients effectively without overcrowding.

Ingredients

Take the carb out of carbonara with virtuous shredded “noodles.” This spaghetti squash carbonara is rich and smoky comfort-in-a-bowl.

Ingredients:
– 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 Turkey Turkey Bacon (roughly chopped. You can also use turkey strips or guanciale)
– 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
– Parsley (chopped to serve)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400 F. Optionally line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.

Step 2: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

1. Slice spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out and discard the seeds.
3. Place the spaghetti squash flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake in preheated oven until strands separate easily with a fork—about 30-45 minutes (cooking time may vary depending on size).

Step 3: Shred the Squash

Once spaghetti squash is fork-tender, flip it over and allow it to cool. When cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred the squash into noodle-like strands.

Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together room temperature eggs, yolks, and parmesan until well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Cook Turkey Bacon and Garlic

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat—ensure it’s large enough for all the squash!
2. Add sliced turkey bacon and sauté until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant.
4. Toss in shredded spaghetti squash and salt; mix until heated through.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Remove pan completely from heat. Use two hands to toss the spaghetti squash with tongs while slowly pouring in the egg mixture.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Plate with a sprinkle of parsley and additional parmesan on top. Enjoy your delicious spaghetti squash carbonara!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and brightness.
• Basil Leaves: Tear fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

With Extra Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Serve with an additional dusting of parmesan for extra creaminess.
• Pecorino Romano: For a sharper flavor, add finely grated pecorino cheese.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the carbonara.
• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad pairs well with the creamy texture of the dish.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their servings, enhancing flavors with acidity.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Perfecting Spaghetti Squash Carbonara involves some simple yet effective techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This ensures a smoother sauce when combined with hot spaghetti squash.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Allow the spaghetti squash to cool slightly before mixing in the eggs to avoid scrambling them.
• Cook Turkey Bacon Until Crispy: This adds texture and enhances the smoky flavor in the dish.
• Toss Off Heat: Mixing the egg mixture off heat prevents cooking the eggs too quickly and helps create a creamy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Pair your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara with complementary side dishes to create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nice crunch and earthy flavor.
4. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad adds brightness with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds elegance and pairs nicely with carbonara.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For an extra veggie boost, serve zucchini noodles as an additional side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you perfect your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara.

• Overcooking the squash: Cooking the spaghetti squash too long will make it mushy. Bake it until fork-tender but not beyond that.
• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can lead to scrambling when combined with hot ingredients. Always use room-temperature eggs for a creamy sauce.
• Not tossing quickly enough: Failing to toss the spaghetti squash with the egg mixture promptly can cause the eggs to scramble. Work swiftly after removing from heat.
• Skipping seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you salt both the turkey bacon and the squash for a well-balanced dish.
• Ignoring texture: The right texture is key in this recipe. Make sure your turkey bacon is crispy before mixing it in for added crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion it into smaller servings for easier thawing.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, while spaghetti squash is best for this dish, you can experiment with other types like zucchini for a different flavor profile.

Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is lower in carbs than traditional carbonara and packed with nutrients from the squash.

How do I customize my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out turkey bacon for other proteins like chicken or beef.

What should I serve with Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread on the side, enhancing your meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a delicious and versatile recipe that satisfies cravings while keeping things light. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try today!