Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Take the carb out of carbonara with this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, a delightful dish that transforms healthy spaghetti squash into a creamy, smoky comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor. Enjoy a guilt-free twist on a classic Italian favorite that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Goodness: This dish offers all the comfort of carbonara without the extra carbs, making it perfect for keto dieters.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this meal in under 65 minutes.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of turkey bacon and garlic creates an irresistible smoky flavor that complements the spaghetti squash beautifully.
• Nutritious Alternative: Packed with vitamins and minerals, spaghetti squash is an excellent choice for those seeking healthier meal options.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please picky eaters while introducing them to new textures and flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Skillet
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly and ensuring easy cleanup when lined with parchment paper.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the eggs and cheese to create a creamy sauce.
• Fork: Used for shredding the cooked spaghetti squash into noodle-like strands.
• Skillet: A versatile tool that allows you to sauté the turkey bacon and combine all ingredients seamlessly.

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 the Flavor Base

• 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. 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 fork tender—about 30-45 minutes. The time may vary based on size.

Step 3: Shred the Cooked Squash

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

Step 4: Whisk Together Eggs and Cheese

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

Step 5: Sauté Turkey Bacon

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat—ensure it’s large enough to fit all your squash!
2. Add sliced turkey bacon and sauté until crispy—about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

1. Add shredded spaghetti squash and salt to the skillet; toss everything until heated through.
2. Remove from heat completely—set it on a trivet on your counter.
3. Use tongs to combine everything while slowly pouring in the egg mixture.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Plate with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti Squash Carbonara!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti squash carbonara is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves offer a fragrant twist that complements the smoky flavors.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken can make this dish even heartier and add more protein.
• Shrimp: For an ocean-inspired option, sauté shrimp in garlic before mixing them into your carbonara.

Serve with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing crunch and creaminess alongside the carbonara.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of fresh baguette adds texture and is great for dipping.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Creating the perfect spaghetti squash carbonara involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps create a smooth and creamy sauce when mixed with hot spaghetti squash.
• Don’t Overcook the Bacon: Cook until crispy but not burnt; this keeps its flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Mix Quickly Off Heat: Remove from heat before adding eggs to prevent scrambling; this ensures a silky sauce.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; adding salt gradually lets you control the flavor better.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Pairing side dishes with spaghetti squash carbonara can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this rich dish perfectly.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender bring out natural sweetness and add color to your plate.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch and balances the creamy pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness and acidity.
4. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes offers creaminess without heaviness.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For those who love vegetables, zucchini noodles add another layer of nutrition while keeping it low-carb.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted sprouts with a touch of balsamic vinegar create a savory side that pairs wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara experience. Here are key pitfalls to watch for:

• Using unripe spaghetti squash: Choose a squash that feels heavy and firm. An under-ripe squash may not yield the desired texture.
• Skipping room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can result in a clumpy sauce. Always let your eggs come to room temperature before mixing them.
• Overcooking the spaghetti squash: Aim for fork-tender strands but avoid mushiness. Check it at the 30-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
• Not tossing off the heat: Adding the egg mixture while the pan is too hot can scramble the eggs. Always remove from heat before combining.
• Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt enhances flavor. Don’t forget to season your dish well, especially after adding the spaghetti squash.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often until warmed through, approximately 2-4 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through; add a splash of broth if needed to loosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara.

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara vegan?

Yes, you can substitute eggs and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Use nutritional yeast for flavor and a vegan egg replacer.

How do I choose the right spaghetti squash?

Look for squash that is firm with a rich yellow color. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.

Can I use other types of meat instead of turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Chicken or beef strips are excellent alternatives that will still provide great flavor.

Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara low-carb?

Yes, using spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta significantly reduces carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

Experiment with herbs and spices like black pepper, red pepper flakes, or even smoked paprika to boost flavor depth.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is not only a delicious twist on a classic dish but also offers versatility for various dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it with different proteins or veggies to suit your taste. Enjoy this rich and smoky comfort food that’s sure to please!