Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta: 7 Steps to Perfection

Name: Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta: 7 Steps to Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried spaghetti squash yet, you’re absolutely missing out! This versatile vegetable is like a culinary chameleon, transforming into delicious “noodles” that can swap in for traditional pasta in a heartbeat. I remember the first time I stumbled upon million dollar spaghetti squash pasta at a cozy little Italian bistro. I was skeptical at first, but one bite blew my mind! The squash is roasted to perfection, giving it a tender texture that pairs beautifully with vibrant sautéed tomatoes and creamy ricotta. It’s such a gourmet twist, and it feels indulgent without the heaviness of carb-loaded pasta. Trust me, this dish will surprise you and impress your friends at dinner parties. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Ingredients List

1 medium spaghetti squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese

How to Prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Let’s get down to the fun part! This step-by-step guide will walk you through preparing this fabulous dish. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping this up for every dinner party!

Prepping the Spaghetti Squash

First things first, you’ll want to carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. I like to use a sharp chef’s knife for this—just be cautious, it can be a bit tough to slice through! Once you’ve got both halves, scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Make sure to get in there good and proper—those seeds are sneaky little things that can hide in the nooks and crannies. This step is crucial because it allows the squash to roast evenly and develop that lovely flavor we’re after.

Roasting the Squash

Now, here comes the magic: preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle a little olive oil over the cut sides of the squash and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup later on! Roast it in the oven for about 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s fork-tender and you can easily scrape the flesh into those beautiful spaghetti strands. Seriously, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking what’s cooking!

Sautéing the Vegetables

While the squash is roasting, let’s turn our attention to the sautéed veggies. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant—oh wow, that smell is heavenly! Then, add in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and bursting with juice. This step adds such a lovely depth of flavor to the dish. Don’t rush this part, let those tomatoes get cozy in the pan!

Combining Ingredients

Once your squash is roasted and your veggies are sautéed, it’s time to bring everything together! Carefully scrape the tender squash flesh into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Go ahead and mix it all up! Then, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and those optional red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Mix everything until it’s well combined and the cheese is just starting to melt into the warm squash. Finally, serve it up with dollops of creamy ricotta on top and a sprinkle of extra basil for that gourmet touch. You’re going to love how beautifully it all comes together!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this fabulous dish! Each serving of million dollar spaghetti squash pasta is estimated to have around 320 calories, which is pretty fantastic for a hearty meal. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories: 320
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 350mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 12g

Keep in mind these values are estimates based on the specific ingredients used, so if you swap out any components or add your own twist, the numbers might change a bit. But one thing’s for sure—this dish is a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy a pasta alternative!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: From start to finish, you can have this gourmet dish ready in just over an hour!
Flavor-packed: The combination of roasted squash, sautéed garlic, and juicy cherry tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Healthy alternative: At around 320 calories per serving, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal without the heaviness of traditional pasta.
Vegetarian-friendly: This recipe caters to your veggie-loving friends and family, making it a great option for dinner parties.
Customizable: With endless variations, you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Impressive presentation: The vibrant colors and creamy ricotta make for a beautiful dish that’s sure to wow your guests.
Comfort food vibes: You’ll get all the cozy, comforting feels of pasta without the extra carbs!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make million dollar spaghetti squash pasta, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your dish to gourmet status.

Choose the right squash: Look for a firm, heavy spaghetti squash with a smooth, unblemished skin. This usually means it’s ripe and ready to perform its magic in the kitchen!
Don’t rush the roasting: For the best texture, make sure to roast the squash until it’s fork-tender. If it’s undercooked, you won’t achieve those beautiful spaghetti strands, and nobody wants that!
Experiment with seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices while roasting the squash. A sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning can take it to the next level.
Quality cheese matters: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of the pre-packaged stuff if you can. The flavor is so much richer and will really shine in your dish!
Mix in the cheese while it’s hot: When you add the Parmesan and other ingredients to the hot squash, it helps the cheese melt beautifully and bind everything together. Yum!
Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it right after combining the ingredients. That way, you’ll get the full experience of the warm, creamy goodness.
Leftover love: If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to reheat gently to avoid making the squash mushy.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress everyone at your next dinner! Happy cooking!

Variations on Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Pasta

Now, let’s have some fun with this recipe! One of the best things about million dollar spaghetti squash pasta is how easily you can customize it. Whether you’re looking to add protein, switch up the flavors, or even make it vegan, there are so many delicious options to explore. Here are some of my favorite variations:

Protein Power: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Toss in some grilled chicken breast sliced thin or sauté shrimp right alongside the garlic for a boost of protein that complements the dish perfectly.
Herb Haven: Switch up the fresh basil for other herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a sprinkle of rosemary. Each herb brings its unique flavor profile, so feel free to mix and match according to your taste!
Spicy Kick: If you crave a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a few more red pepper flakes. It’s a great way to elevate the flavor and get your taste buds dancing!
Cheesy Goodness: Try mixing in other cheeses like feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy twist. You could also go for a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a melty, cheesy delight!
Vegan Delight: To make this dish vegan, simply swap the ricotta for a tofu-based ricotta or cashew cream. You can easily blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
Veggie Loaded: Get creative with your veggies! Add in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra dose of nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic and tomatoes until they’re tender.
Seasonal Twist: In the fall, add some cooked butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a seasonal flair. You can even sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor!
Balsamic Bliss: Drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the top just before serving. It not only adds a beautiful presentation, but the sweet-tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with the squash and tomatoes.

With all these variations, you can make million dollar spaghetti squash pasta a new dish every time you whip it up! Don’t be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to keep those lovely leftovers of million dollar spaghetti squash pasta fresh and tasty! Proper storage is key to enjoying this dish again without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

First off, once you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. This is super important—don’t just toss hot food into the fridge, as it can raise the temperature inside and cause other food to spoil. Once it’s cooled, transfer the pasta into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well to keep that deliciousness locked in. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!

For freezing, I recommend portioning out the spaghetti squash pasta into smaller containers or freezer bags. This way, you can thaw only what you need later on. Just be sure to label them with the date so you know when they were made. It should stay good in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

When it’s time to reheat, I’ve found that the stovetop is the best method for maintaining that lovely texture. Just toss the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. If it seems a little dry, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help revive it. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot and ready to enjoy again.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your million dollar spaghetti squash pasta. Happy eating!

million dollar spaghetti squash pasta - detail 1

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.