Let’s talk about comfort food, keto-style! If you’ve been missing that cozy, twirl-your-fork spaghetti-and-meatballs vibe, I’ve got you covered.
This Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs recipe will surely satisfy your pasta cravings if following a low-carb lifestyle.
Think tender strands of spaghetti squash topped with juicy, flavor-packed meatballs, all smothered in rich marinara.
The best part? It’s loaded with healthy fats, totally keto-approved, and ridiculously easy to make.
Grab your fork—this dish is about to become your new dinner favorite!
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything to gather before you start:
- For the Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean, for those healthy fats)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup almond flour (for binding, keto-style)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 2 cups low-carb marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto and Low-Carb Approved: Spaghetti squash swaps out carb-heavy pasta for a veggie-packed alternative.
- Loaded with Healthy Fats: Between the olive oil, ground beef, and Parmesan, this dish has the high-fat diet seal of approval.
- Seriously Comforting: Who doesn’t love a cozy plate of “spaghetti”? This one hits all the nostalgic notes without breaking your carb bank.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make the meatballs ahead, and dinner comes together in a flash.
How to Make Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Drizzle each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
- While roasting the squash, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together ground beef, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, almond flour, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Make sure to mix everything really well, then roll mixture into meatballs 1-inch each.
- In a skillet, over medium heat, add olive oil or butter.
- Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
- Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Remove the spaghetti squash from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Divide the squash between plates, top with meatballs and marinara sauce, and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Storage Tips & Meal Prep Ideas
- Meal Prep Hero: Make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for quick dinners during the week.
- Leftovers: Store spaghetti squash, meatballs, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat Like a Pro: Heat the squash and sauce in the microwave or stovetop; then, when hot, add the meatballs to keep them juicy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~650
- Net Carbs: ~20g
- Protein: ~42g
- Fats: ~42g
FAQ
Can I use a different type of squash?
Spaghetti squash is the perfect pasta substitute, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use zoodles (zucchini noodles).
What’s the best marinara sauce for keto?
Look for a low-carb marinara sauce with no added sugars—just check the label to be sure.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Of course! The flavors are so classic and comforting that even the non-keto eaters will enjoy it.
Let’s Keep Dinner Delicious (and Keto!)
And there it is: finally, spaghetti squash with meatballs that’s equal parts cozy and keto-friendly!
Whether you’re new to the low-carb lifestyle or a seasoned pro, this recipe makes dinner feel effortless and satisfying.
The combination of tender squash, juicy meatballs, and rich marinara is a total game-changer, proving that you can stick to your keto diet without giving up the foods you love.
This recipe is also full of healthy fats to keep you fueled and satisfied for longer.
For more keto recipes, check out some of my other delicious creations here: lots to explore, quick weeknight dinner ideas, plus even indulgent desserts-all with the keto twist!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your fork, twirl up some squash, and savor every last bite of this low-carb, high-fat deliciousness!
Spaghetti Squash with Meatballs
Discover the best keto dinner with Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs.
This low carb recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup almond flour (for binding, keto-style)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups low-carb marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Drizzle each half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
- While roasting the squash, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together ground beef, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, almond flour, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Make sure to mix everything really well, then roll mixture into meatballs 1-inch each.
- In a skillet, over medium heat, add olive oil or butter.
- Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
- Once the meatballs are cooked, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Remove the spaghetti squash from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Divide the squash between plates, top with meatballs and marinara sauce, and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 650Total Fat: 42gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 25gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 1061mgCarbohydrates: 27gFiber: 7gSugar: 13gProtein: 42g
This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix