Keto Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Recipe
If you're looking for a delicious, low-carb twist on traditional lasagna, this Keto Spaghetti Squash Lasagna is the perfect dish for you! It’s packed with all the comforting flavors of lasagna—savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and flavorful herbs—but swaps out carb-heavy pasta for naturally low-carb spaghetti squash. Not only does this recipe help you stay on track with your keto goals, but it’s also a fun and creative way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier spin.
Whether you're serving this for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this keto-friendly delight!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb Comfort Food: All the flavor of lasagna without the carbs.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and fiber from the spaghetti squash.
- Customizable: Add your favorite keto-friendly ingredients for your own twist.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers for the week ahead.
Ingredients for Keto Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
For the Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Meat Sauce:
- One pound of Italian sausage or ground beef, or a combination of the two
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups sugar-free marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This is the temperature you'll need to roast the spaghetti squash. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut and Clean: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Remove the stringy pulp and seeds from the middle with a spoon.
- Roast and season: Sprinkle the squash with salt and pepper after brushing the sliced sides with olive oil. On the baking sheet, arrange the squash cut side down. The meat should be soft and easily shredded with a fork after 35 to 40 minutes of roasting.
- Cool and Shred: Let the squash cool slightly, then use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands. Set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the sugar-free marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix until smooth and well blended.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
- Layer One: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti squash in an even layer at the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking dish.
- Layer Two: Spread half of the meat sauce over the squash.
- Layer Three: Spoon half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce and spread gently.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of squash, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the lasagna. This will give the lasagna a golden brown crust when it bakes.
5. Bake and Serve
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Macro Breakdown Per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 325
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 18g
- Total Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 6g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Tips for Perfect Keto Spaghetti Squash Lasagna
- Roast the Squash Just Right: Avoid overcooking the squash to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Choose the Right Marinara: Use a sugar-free marinara sauce to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Drain Excess Liquid: If your squash or meat sauce is watery, drain it to prevent a soggy lasagna.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for extra flavor.
Keto Notes and Nutritional Benefits
- Spaghetti Squash: A nutrient-dense, low-carb alternative to pasta, packed with fiber, vitamins C and B6, and potassium.
- Ricotta and Parmesan: Provide healthy fats and protein while keeping the dish rich and creamy.
- Ground Meat: High in protein, helping you stay full longer and support muscle health.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add more mozzarella or mix in some cheddar for an extra cheesy layer.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes for heat.
Common FAQs
1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you're ready to serve.
2. Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I Use Another Cheese?
Feel free to substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Ending
There you have it—a flavorful and satisfying Keto Spaghetti Squash Lasagna that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this lasagna is sure to impress.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your variations or creative twists.
Hungry for More? Try These Keto Recipes:
- Keto Zucchini Lasagna – A delicious low-carb lasagna with thinly sliced zucchini.
- Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly keto-friendly.
- Keto Eggplant Parmesan – A hearty and satisfying dish with layers of flavor.
Happy cooking, and stay keto strong! 🍴