Cheeseburger Casserole with Spaghetti Squash Recipe

This Cheeseburger Casserole with Spaghetti Squash is a healthy and delicious twist on a classic cheeseburger! Imagine all the flavors of a cheeseburger – juicy ground turkey, tangy pickles, and melted cheese – all baked together with a spaghetti squash base. This recipe is easy to make and a lighter alternative to traditional casseroles, perfect for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Comfort Food: This recipe uses spaghetti squash as a low-carb and healthy alternative to traditional pasta or potatoes. It’s packed with protein from the ground turkey and a delicious cheesy flavor that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything bakes together in one casserole dish, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the flavors by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to the casserole. You can also use different types of cheese for the topping.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Spaghetti squash: Cooked and shredded, it adds a healthy and low-carb base to the casserole.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables.
• Yellow onion: Diced and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Ground turkey: Use lean ground turkey or ground beef for a healthier option.
• Salt and pepper: Season the casserole to perfection.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tanginess to the sauce.
• Mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
• Nonfat plain Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavor.
• Chopped pickles: Adds a tangy crunch.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy and gooey texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheeseburger Casserole with Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Cook the spaghetti squash according to your preferred method (baking or microwaving) and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, scoop out the spaghetti squash strands and place them in a large bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey and Onions

While the spaghetti squash is cooking, heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the ground turkey, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Turn off the heat and add the turkey mixture to the bowl with the spaghetti squash.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, mustard, Greek yogurt, and chopped pickles until well combined. Pour the sauce over the spaghetti squash and turkey mixture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In the same small bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy. Pour the eggs into the spaghetti squash mixture and stir everything together until well combined. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and mix again.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 1 hour, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground meat: For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey or ground beef.
• Adjust the spice level: Adjust the amount of spices to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the casserole.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or corn.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This Cheeseburger Casserole with Spaghetti Squash is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes, would complement the flavors of the casserole beautifully.
• Toppings: Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheeseburger Casserole with Spaghetti Squash is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of squash?

While spaghetti squash is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of squash, such as butternut squash or acorn squash. However, the texture and cooking time may vary.

2. Can I make this recipe without the cheese?

Yes, you can! The cheese adds a delicious flavor and texture, but you can omit it if you prefer.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Feel free to use ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the casserole?

Definitely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs would be delicious additions.

This Cheeseburger Casserole with Spaghetti Squash Recipe is a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and one-dish convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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