Roasted Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Boats

Ingredients and Weight:

• Spaghetti squash: 2 medium (about 4-5 pounds)
• Ground beef: 1 pound
• Italian sausage (optional): 1/2 pound
• Onion (chopped): 1 medium
• Green bell pepper (chopped): 1
• Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
• Marinara sauce: 2 cups
• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 1 hour

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast facedown on a baking sheet for 45-60 minutes, or until tender and strands pull away easily.
3. While squash is roasting, brown ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet. Remove excess grease if necessary.
4. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
7. When spaghetti squash has roasted, use a fork to scrape the strands into "boats."
8. Fill each boat with meat sauce and ricotta mixture.
9. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15 grams
• Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
• Sodium: 600 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Protein: 25 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and savory
• Tender and flavorful squash
• Perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner party

User Comments:

• "This is the best lasagna I've ever had!"
• "The spaghetti squash boats are a unique and delicious twist on the classic dish."
• "The ricotta and Parmesan cheese filling is perfectly rich and creamy."
• "Even my picky eater loved it."
• "This dish is a great way to get more vegetables into your diet."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a sharp knife to cut the spaghetti squash.
• Be sure to remove all the seeds from the squash before roasting.
• Don't overcook the squash, or it will become mushy.
• If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
• Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.