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 family dinners or a cozy night in, this dish offers a delightful twist on the classic recipe. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Alternative: Enjoy the classic carbonara flavor without the carbs. Spaghetti squash serves as a healthy substitute for traditional pasta.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or casual meals, this recipe fits various occasions and dietary preferences.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of turkey bacon and garlic creates a savory dish that satisfies cravings without overwhelming heaviness.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking the spaghetti squash on parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your spaghetti squash carbonara, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface to roast your spaghetti squash evenly, allowing for perfect texture.
• Skillet: Ensures that you can sauté the turkey bacon and garlic efficiently while mixing in all ingredients seamlessly.
• Tongs: Ideal for tossing the spaghetti squash with the egg mixture without breaking up the noodles.

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 your oven to 400 F. Optionally, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out/discard the seeds.
2. Place the spaghetti squash flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake in the preheated oven until strands separate easily with a fork—about 30-45 minutes, depending on size.

Step 3: Shred the Squash

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

Step 4: Mix Eggs and Cheese

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

Step 5: Cook Turkey Bacon and Garlic

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat—make sure it’s large enough for all of your spaghetti squash!
2. Add sliced turkey bacon; sauté until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in shredded spaghetti squash and kosher salt; toss everything together until heated through.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat completely. Using tongs, toss everything while slowly pouring in your egg mixture to create a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Plate your dish topped with chopped parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this delicious spaghetti squash carbonara!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti squash carbonara is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves offer a fragrant touch that complements the dish well.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens, dressed lightly, balances the richness of the carbonara.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad can add crunch and flavor, creating a delicious contrast.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can boost the protein content and make the dish heartier.
• Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp brings a touch of elegance and flavor that pairs beautifully with spaghetti squash.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can be an excellent accompaniment for scooping up the carbonara.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia bread provides a delightful texture that complements the meal.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

To achieve the best results with your spaghetti squash carbonara, follow these handy tips. They will help you enhance flavors and ensure a smooth cooking process.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Start with eggs and parmesan at room temperature for better emulsion when mixing.
• Cook Squash Until Fork-Tender: Ensure that your spaghetti squash is fully cooked so that strands separate easily without being mushy.
• Remove from Heat Before Adding Eggs: This prevents scrambling the eggs; residual heat will cook them gently while maintaining creaminess.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper for personalized flavor enhancement.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Complementing your spaghetti squash carbonara with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring sweetness that balances the savory pasta.
2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that pairs well without overpowering.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and is an excellent source of vitamins, providing a fresh contrast.
4. Caprese Salad: This simple tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad provides freshness and acidity to cut through the richness of the dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers nutty flavors and additional protein for a complete meal.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For an even lower carb option, serve alongside zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the squash: Cooking spaghetti squash too long can lead to mushy strands. Keep an eye on it and test with a fork for perfect texture.
• Not using room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can cause the sauce to curdle when added to the hot squash. Always use eggs that are at room temperature for a creamy consistency.
• Skipping the cooling step: Adding the egg mixture to hot squash without cooling can scramble the eggs. Allow your squash to cool slightly before mixing in the egg combination.
• Using low-quality Parmesan: Cheap cheese often lacks flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality, finely grated Parmesan for the best taste and creaminess.
• Under-seasoning: A pinch of salt isn’t enough! Ensure you season well throughout cooking for a balanced flavor profile in your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best if used within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Spaghetti Squash Carbonara.

Can I substitute turkey bacon with another protein?

Yes, you can use chicken or beef bacon as an alternative for turkey bacon while keeping it flavorful.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done baking?

The squash is ready when its flesh is easily pierced with a fork and separates into strands.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Spaghetti Squash Carbonara holds up well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, by using plant-based gelling agents instead of eggs and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, you can create a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines comfort with health benefits. Its versatility allows for various protein options and toppings, making it adaptable to different tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy customizing it to your liking!