Baked Spaghetti Squash with Beef and Veggies

Ingredients and Weight:

• Spaghetti Squash - 1 large (about 2-3 pounds)
• Ground Beef - 1 pound
• Onion - 1 medium, chopped
• Bell Pepper - 1 red or green, chopped
• Mushrooms - 8 oz, sliced
• Cheddar Cheese - 1 cup, shredded
• Salt and Pepper - to taste
• Cooking Oil - 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare spaghetti squash by cutting it in half lengthwise and scooping out the seeds.
3. Place the spaghetti squash halves on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
4. While the spaghetti squash is baking, prepare the beef and veggie mixture.
5. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion.
6. Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped bell pepper and sliced mushrooms and cook until the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. When the spaghetti squash is done baking, scrape out the flesh to create spaghetti-like strands.
9. Mix the cooked beef and veggie mixture with the spaghetti squash strands.
10. Transfer the mixture back into the baking dish or individual baking dishes.
11. Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes to heat through and crisp up the edges.

Nutritional Information: (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approx. 400-500 (depending on serving size)
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g

Dish Characteristics:

• This dish combines the flavors of spaghetti with the texture of squash, creating a unique and hearty meal.
• The beef and veggie mixture is hearty and flavorful, while the spaghetti squash adds a unique texture and nutritional value.
• This dish is perfect for meat lovers who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

User Comments:

• "This was an interesting combination of flavors. The spaghetti squash added a nice texture to the dish."
• "I loved the combination of beef and veggies with the squash. It was a great way to get my kids to eat their vegetables."
• "The dish was a bit time-consuming to prepare, but it was worth it. The flavor was outstanding."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure to fully cook the ground beef before adding the vegetables to ensure proper food safety.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
• This dish can be easily customized by adding other vegetables or meats as desired.