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. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, offering a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish stands out as a healthy yet satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy a guilt-free version of carbonara that uses spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be ready in under 70 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey bacon and garlic creates a rich, smoky flavor that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions—whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Low Carb Option: Ideal for those following keto or low-carb diets while still being filling and delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, gather the necessary tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Fork
• Medium bowl
• Skillet
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A lined baking sheet makes cleanup easier when roasting the spaghetti squash.
• Skillet: A large skillet ensures you can mix all ingredients thoroughly without overcrowding.
• Tongs: Using tongs helps toss the spaghetti squash evenly with the sauce for better flavor distribution.

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 Base

• 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 Flavoring

• 12 ounces Turkey Turkey Bacon (roughly chopped; you can also use turkey strips or guanciale)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)

For Seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

To Serve

• Parsley (chopped)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 F. If desired, 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 the strands separate easily with a fork, about 30-45 minutes depending on size.

Step 3: Shred the Squash

Once fork tender, flip the squash and allow it to cool slightly. Use a fork to shred it into spaghetti strands.

Step 4: Whisk Eggs and Cheese

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

Step 5: Cook Turkey Bacon and Garlic

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced turkey bacon and sauté until crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant. Toss in the spaghetti squash along with salt until heated through.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Remove the pan completely from heat. Using tongs, toss the spaghetti squash while slowly pouring in the egg mixture, ensuring it coats evenly.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Spaghetti squash carbonara is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh parsley to sprinkle over your dish for added color and a burst of flavor.
• Consider basil or chives for a unique twist that complements the smokiness of the turkey bacon.

Pair with a Salad

• A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the carbonara.
• Try a Caesar salad (without anchovies) for a classic pairing that complements the flavors.

Add Extra Cheese

• Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for those who enjoy an extra cheesy experience.
• You can also try pecorino cheese for a sharper flavor profile.

Use Serving Bowls

• Present your spaghetti squash carbonara in individual bowls to create an inviting dining experience.
• Consider using deep plates to hold more sauce and toppings.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

To make sure your spaghetti squash carbonara turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Select ripe spaghetti squash: Choose squashes that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating freshness.
• Control cooking time: Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooking can lead to mushy strands. Aim for fork-tender but not overly soft.
• Mix eggs at room temperature: This prevents scrambling when combined with hot ingredients, ensuring a creamy texture.
• Remove from heat first: Taking the pan off the heat before adding egg mixture helps create a silky sauce rather than scrambled eggs.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

Pairing sides with your spaghetti squash carbonara can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Crispy toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds crunch and flavor contrast.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings natural sweetness and texture.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious green side that complements the dish well.

4. Caprese Salad
   Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella (or vegan alternative), and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing addition.

5. Greek Salad
   A tangy combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the carbonara.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For even more veggie content, serve zucchini noodles tossed lightly in olive oil as a low-carb side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara experience. Here are some pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Incorrect Squash Preparation: Not slicing the spaghetti squash properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always cut it in half lengthwise for consistent baking.
• Overcooking Eggs: Adding the egg mixture while the pan is still on heat can scramble the eggs instead of creating a creamy sauce. Ensure the pan is off heat when you combine everything.
• Skipping the Garlic: Neglecting to sauté garlic can result in a bland dish. Always cook it until fragrant to enhance flavor.
• Not Tasting for Salt: Failing to taste your dish before serving might leave it under-seasoned. Adjust salt as needed after combining all ingredients.
• Using Cold Eggs: Cold eggs may not emulsify well with the other ingredients, resulting in a less creamy texture. Use room-temperature eggs for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring gently until warmed, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spaghetti Squash Carbonara:

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, while spaghetti squash works best, you can experiment with other squash varieties like butternut or acorn for different flavors and textures.

How do I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara vegan?

For a vegan version, replace eggs with a blend of silken tofu and nutritional yeast, and use plant-based bacon alternatives.

What is the best way to cook spaghetti squash?

Roasting is recommended for the best texture. Baking at 400°F allows it to become tender while keeping its noodle-like strands intact.

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Carbonara ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components like the sauce and cooked squash ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a delightful twist on traditional carbonara that offers rich flavors while being lower in carbs. Its versatility allows for various customization options like adding vegetables or different proteins. We encourage you to try this fantastic dish and make it your own!