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 weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a tasty twist on classic carbonara, this dish delivers. Enjoy the balance of flavors from the turkey bacon, garlic, and creamy sauce made from eggs and parmesan. It’s a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy alternative: Swapping pasta for spaghetti squash reduces carbs while maintaining flavor.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of turkey bacon and garlic creates a smoky, savory profile that enhances every bite.
• Quick prep time: With only 15 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect as a main course or a side dish at gatherings, it suits various occasions.
• Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the fun texture of spaghetti squash noodles.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Fork
• Medium bowl
• Skillet
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the turkey bacon and garlic, maximizing flavor development.
• Tongs: Useful for tossing ingredients together without breaking the delicate squash strands.

Ingredients

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

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 4 Pounds Spaghetti Squash (about 2 small or 1 large)

For the Sauce

• 2 Egg Yolks (room temperature)
• 2 Eggs (room temperature)
• 4 oz Parmesan (Finely Grated)

For Flavoring

• 12 ounces Turkey Turkey Bacon (roughly chopped. You can also use turkey strips or guanciale)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

To Serve

• Parsley (chopped to serve)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you’d like easier cleanup later, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out and discard the seeds.
3. Place the squash flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-45 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 3: Shred the Squash

1. Once fork-tender, flip the squash over to cool slightly.
2. Use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.

Step 4: Mix Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. The room temperature eggs,
2. The egg yolks,
3. Finely grated parmesan until well combined.

Step 5: Cook Turkey Bacon and Garlic

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat; ensure it’s large enough for all ingredients.
2. Add chopped turkey bacon and sauté until crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add shredded spaghetti squash and salt; toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Remove the pan completely from heat.
2. Using tongs, toss everything together while slowly pouring in the egg mixture until well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Plate your spaghetti squash carbonara with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Serving Spaghetti Squash Carbonara can elevate your dining experience. Its rich and smoky flavors pair well with various accompaniments and garnishes that enhance the dish’s appeal.

Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil: Chopped fresh basil complements the smoky flavors beautifully.

Protein Additions

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can provide extra protein while maintaining the dish’s lightness.
• Shrimp: Cooked shrimp can add a seafood twist, making it a delightful variation.

Extra Cheese

• Parmesan: A generous grating of fresh Parmesan cheese right before serving enhances the creamy texture.
• Feta: Crumbled feta cheese introduces a tangy flavor that pairs well with spaghetti squash.

Serving Style

• In Shells: Serve the spaghetti squash in its shell for a rustic presentation.
• Plated with Sides: Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara requires attention to detail for the best results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose ripe spaghetti squash: Look for squashes that feel heavy and have a firm skin. This ensures better texture and flavor.
• Watch your cooking time: Overcooking spaghetti squash can make it mushy. Aim for fork-tender strands without losing their structure.
• Whisk eggs thoroughly: Make sure your egg mixture is well combined before adding it to the squash. This ensures an even coating and creaminess.
• Remove from heat before adding eggs: This prevents scrambling the eggs, allowing for a creamy sauce instead of scrambled pieces.
• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt or pepper according to preference.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a perfect crunch and complements the flavors of carbonara beautifully.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can enhance the meal with their caramelized flavors, making it hearty yet healthy.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while keeping the meal light.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as a great base alongside carbonara without overwhelming flavors.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus offers a slightly smoky taste that pairs nicely with the dish’s flavors, along with added crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara even better. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Eggs: Using cold eggs can cause the sauce to curdle. Always bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing.
• Overcooking the Spaghetti Squash: Cooking it too long can lead to mushy strands. Aim for fork-tender, which usually takes 30-45 minutes, depending on size.
• Not Tossing Off Heat: If you don’t remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture, it may scramble. Always take the pan off the burner first.
• Using Low-Quality Parmesan: Subpar cheese can affect flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Proper Storage: Improper storage can spoil leftovers quickly. Make sure to use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Spaghetti Squash Carbonara:

Can I customize my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or use another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is great for preparing meals in advance.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe serves about 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a delightful twist on a classic dish that offers rich flavors while keeping things light. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, making it suitable for many tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of healthy goodness!