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 meal prep, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a classic pasta flavor while keeping it low-carb. The unique texture of spaghetti squash combined with savory bacon and creamy sauce makes this recipe stand out on any table.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
• Step 3: Shred the Squash
• Step 4: Mix Eggs and Cheese
• Step 5: Cook Bacon and Combine Flavors
• Step 6: Combine Everything
• Step 7: Serve It Up!
• How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Light Salads
• Add Extra Protein
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other squashes instead of spaghetti squash?
• Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara suitable for keto diets?
• How do I make this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara vegetarian?
• Can I add vegetables to my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?
• How do I avoid watery spaghetti squash?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the comforting flavors of carbonara without the carbs by using spaghetti squash.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 65 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily be modified for various diets, including keto and low-carb lifestyles.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of crispy bacon, garlic, and parmesan creates a rich, smoky flavor that will satisfy your cravings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers easily for a quick meal during your busy week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Fork
• Whisk
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly in the oven.
• Fork: Essential for shredding the cooked squash into noodle-like strands.
• Whisk: Helps combine eggs and cheese smoothly for a creamy sauce.
• Skillet: Used to sauté bacon and mix all ingredients together effectively.

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 Carbonara

• 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 Bacon (roughly chopped; you can also use pancetta 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.
2. Scoop out and discard the seeds.
3. Place the squash flesh side down on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven until fork-tender, about 30-45 minutes depending on size.

Step 3: Shred the Squash

Once fork-tender, flip the spaghetti squash to cool slightly. When cool enough to handle:
– Use a fork to shred it into spaghetti-like strands.

Step 4: Mix Eggs and Cheese

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

Step 5: Cook Bacon and Combine Flavors

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat—ensure it’s large enough for all ingredients!
2. Add sliced bacon and sauté until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Toss in shredded spaghetti squash along with kosher salt; mix well until heated through.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Remove the pan from heat completely:
– Use tongs to toss the spaghetti squash while slowly pouring in the egg mixture to create a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

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

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh flavor and bright color.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives can provide an oniony kick and beautiful presentation.

Pair with Light Salads

• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the carbonara.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Slices of grilled chicken breast can make this dish even heartier.
• Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp adds a touch of elegance and pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls: Soft ciabatta rolls can be served warm for a delightful crunch.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

To achieve the best results with your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, follow these helpful tips for a delicious dish every time.

• Choose the Right Squash: Look for firm spaghetti squash without soft spots for the best texture.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Letting the squash cool slightly before shredding helps create better strands.
• Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: Ensure eggs and parmesan are well combined for a smooth sauce without clumps.
• Remove from Heat Before Adding Eggs: This prevents scrambling and ensures a creamy consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper as needed for your preference.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Complement your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara with these side dishes that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette enhances the richness of carbonara.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a tasty crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy pasta.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb option alongside this dish.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings freshness and elegance to your meal.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For an extra veggie boost, serve zucchini noodles as an additional side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Eggs: Using cold eggs can lead to clumping. Let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using them.
• Overcooking the Spaghetti Squash: Baking for too long can make the squash mushy. Check for fork-tenderness around the 30-minute mark.
• Not Tossing Off Heat: Adding eggs while the pan is still hot can scramble them. Always remove the skillet from heat before mixing in the egg mixture.
• Using Low-Quality Bacon: Lower quality bacon may not provide enough flavor. Choose a good quality bacon or pancetta for a richer taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt as needed during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• item Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• item Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Spaghetti Squash Carbonara that might help you in your cooking journey.

Can I use other squashes instead of spaghetti squash?

You can substitute with zucchini noodles or other similar vegetables; however, the texture will differ from traditional spaghetti squash.

Is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara suitable for keto diets?

Yes! This dish is low in carbs and high in flavor, making it perfect for keto diets.

How do I make this Spaghetti Squash Carbonara vegetarian?

Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a vegetarian twist while retaining rich flavors.

Can I add vegetables to my Spaghetti Squash Carbonara?

Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.

How do I avoid watery spaghetti squash?

Ensure you fully bake the squash until tender and drain any excess moisture after shredding before combining with other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara offers a delectable low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Its smoky flavor and creamy texture make it an appealing choice for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!