Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry the other day, a brilliant idea struck me—why not transform a comfort food classic into something healthier? Enter Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, a delightful take on the beloved carbonara that uses roasted spaghetti squash as a delightful, low-carb substitute. This dish embraces the essence of traditional flavors while keeping your dietary goals in check. Imagine tender strands of squash mingling with crispy bacon and a luscious, creamy sauce that makes you feel warm and satisfied without the heaviness. Not only is this recipe gluten-free, but it also comes together in under 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing your friends at dinner parties. Are you ready to make your kitchen smell heavenly and indulge guilt-free? Let’s dive in! Why is Spaghetti Squash Carbonara a Must-Try? Comforting and Healthy: This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is the ultimate guilt-free dish that satisfies your cravings without the carbs. Rich and Creamy: The combination of eggs and Pecorino Romano creates a luxurious sauce that clings to every strand, ensuring a delightful bite every time. Versatile Ingredients: Whether you prefer crispy bacon or a vegetarian option with mushrooms, this recipe is easily adaptable to fit your dietary needs. Quick Prep Time: Ready in under 50 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for those busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner gatherings. For a different twist on comfort food, check out the Squash Casserole Delightful for more healthy alternatives! Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Ingredients For the Squash • Spaghetti Squash – A medium-sized squash gives the best texture for mimicking traditional pasta. For the Sauce • Eggs – Fresh eggs create a rich and creamy sauce when whisked with cheese. • Pecorino Romano Cheese – This sharp cheese adds a depth of flavor; Parmesan can be used as a substitute if preferred. • Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor. • Black Pepper – Season to your liking; a generous amount gives a delightful kick. • Salt – Essential for seasoning both the squash and the overall dish. For the Topping • Bacon (or Pancetta) – Crispy bacon provides a smoky taste; consider sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. • Fresh Parsley – An optional garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness to the final plating. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked spaghetti squash right from the start. A good preheat will help the squash roast evenly, creating tender, flavorful strands reminiscent of traditional pasta. Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash Carefully halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise, using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then drizzle each half with olive oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This seasoning will enhance the natural sweetness of the squash, setting a flavorful base for your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara. Step 3: Roast the Squash Place the prepared spaghetti squash halves cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the skin feels tender when pressed. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh easily scrapes into strands with a fork, mimicking traditional spaghetti. Step 4: Cook the Bacon While the squash roasts, heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon, cooking it until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. This fat will add flavor to your garlic in the next step. Step 5: Sauté the Garlic In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add minced garlic to the leftover bacon fat. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned. This step will infuse your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara with a rich, aromatic flavor profile, elevating the dish beautifully. Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined and creamy. Season the mixture generously with black pepper. This creamy egg and cheese base will create the luxurious sauce that clings to the warm squash, making each bite of your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara truly indulgent. Step 7: Scrape the Squash Once the spaghetti squash has cooled slightly, use a fork to scrape the flesh into a large bowl, forming spaghetti-like strands. Discard the skin but retain all those wonderful strands that will serve as a healthy pasta alternative in your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara. Step 8: Combine Ingredients Add the crispy bacon and sautéed garlic to the bowl of squash. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the warm squash strands, tossing everything together swiftly. This quick combining is crucial to ensure the heat from the squash gently cooks the eggs without scrambling, resulting in a creamy sauce. Step 9: Adjust Seasoning Taste your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or black pepper based on your preference. This final adjustment will elevate the dish, ensuring it’s perfectly suited to your taste. Step 10: Serve the Dish Plate your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Pecorino Romano cheese if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures while warm, letting the rich aroma fill your kitchen. Make Ahead Options These Spaghetti Squash Carbonara components are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can roast the spaghetti squash and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply let it cool before placing it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and sauté the garlic ahead of time, storing them together in the fridge for up to 3 days as well. When it’s time to enjoy your dish, quickly scrape the squash into a bowl, stir in the bacon and garlic, and whisk together the eggs and cheese. Combine everything while the squash is still warm to create that creamy, delicious sauce. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready to go in no time! How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Fridge: Store leftover Spaghetti Squash Carbonara in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reseal thoroughly to maintain freshness and prevent any chance of drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well to ensure even heating and revive its creamy texture. Serving Suggestions: Always serve immediately after reheating. Consider adding fresh parsley and a sprinkle of cheese to refresh the dish before enjoying it again! Expert Tips for Spaghetti Squash Carbonara • Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and garlic for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will enhance the richness of your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara. • Avoid Scrambled Eggs: Combine the egg mixture with warm squash quickly to prevent scrambling. The gentle heat will create that creamy sauce without any curdled egg bits. • Season Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Proper seasoning elevates the flavor and ensures each bite is delightful, so taste as you go. • Prep Ahead: You can roast the squash in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat briefly before mixing with the other ingredients for a quicker meal. • Customize to Taste: Feel free to add seasonal veggies or adjust the protein. This recipe is versatile, making it easy to adapt for whatever you have on hand. • Perfectly Crispy Bacon: For the best texture, cook bacon until crispy. It adds that necessary crunch and smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the squash. What to Serve with Spaghetti Squash Carbonara? Elevate your dining experience by pairing your delectable dish with mouthwatering sides that tantalize the taste buds and complement the flavors of your meal. Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce of the carbonara. The warmth from the garlic brings a comforting aroma, enhancing the overall dining experience. Arugula Salad: Fresh arugula tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy spaghetti squash carbonara. It balances flavors wonderfully while introducing a refreshing element to your meal. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots—adds vibrant colors and textures. Their charred edges lend a rustic flavor, making them a fantastic sidekick to the robust carbonara. Creamy Polenta: Silky smooth polenta is a delightful, earthy companion. Its subtle flavor and creamy consistency provide a lovely contrast to the spaghetti squash while keeping your meal on the comfort food spectrum. Herbed Quinoa: This light and nutrient-packed option adds a wholesome touch to your meal. Opting for herbs like parsley and basil awakens the flavors, making each bite vibrant while maintaining a light profile that complements the carbonara. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the overall experience, bringing fruity notes and a touch of oak that pairs harmoniously with the smoky bacon in your carbonara, making for delightful sips with every bite. Dark Chocolate Mousse: To end your meal on a sweet note, consider a velvety dark chocolate mousse. Its rich flavors and silky texture are a sumptuous conclusion that leaves you utterly satisfied, contrasting nicely with the savory carbonara. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The crunchy, caramelized exterior of Brussels sprouts brings a wonderful bite alongside the soft spaghetti squash. Tossed with a hint of balsamic glaze, they become an irresistible side that enhances your dining experience. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara: Delicious Twists Await! Feel free to explore these flavorful variations that can elevate your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara experience! Vegetarian Switch: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version that’s full of umami. Dairy-Free Delight: Use cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Hot & Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a fiery kick that beautifully complements the richness of the sauce. Extra Veggies: Toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and a pop of color. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as basil or thyme to brighten the dish and introduce an aromatic twist. Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing burst of brightness. Flavorful Umami: Sprinkle some miso paste into the egg mixture for a deep, earthy flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience. For more delicious vegetable dishes, don’t miss our Squash Casserole Delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Spaghetti Squash Carbonara Recipe FAQs Why should I choose a medium-sized spaghetti squash? Absolutely! A medium-sized spaghetti squash is ideal as it provides the best flavor and texture for mimicking traditional pasta. Larger squashes may have a watery texture, while smaller ones can be too fibrous. Look for a squash that feels firm and has a uniform color without dark spots. How should I store leftover Spaghetti Squash Carbonara? To keep your Spaghetti Squash Carbonara fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain its creamy texture. If you notice it starting to dry out, you can always add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating. Can I freeze Spaghetti Squash Carbonara? Yes! You can freeze Spaghetti Squash Carbonara for up to 2 months. First, let it cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. For best results, remove any excess air to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave. What if my egg mixture becomes scrambled? If you’re worried about scrambling the eggs while making this dish, here’s a simple tip: Combine the egg and cheese mixture with the warm squash quickly. Stir rapidly to ensure that the heat gently transforms the eggs into a creamy sauce. If you notice some scrambling, don’t fret! Just scramble that portion into the dish; it’ll still taste delicious! Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Very! This Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is not only gluten-free, but it also fits perfectly into low-carb diets, making it an excellent alternative for those looking to cut down on carbs. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any hidden gluten, especially in your bacon or cheese, to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal. Can I substitute the bacon in this recipe? Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, you can swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms, which add a wonderful umami flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter meat option, turkey bacon works beautifully as well. Just keep in mind that if you substitute the protein, you may want to add additional seasonings to enhance the overall flavor profile. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara: Comfort Food Made Guilt-Free Spaghetti Squash Carbonara is a delicious, low-carb take on a classic comfort food, perfect for guilt-free indulgence. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Squash1 medium Spaghetti Squash best texture for mimicking traditional pastaFor the Sauce3 large Eggs fresh eggs create a creamy sauce1 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese sharp cheese; Parmesan can be used as a substitute2 cloves Garlic fresh minced enhances flavorto taste Black Pepper gives a delightful kickto taste Salt essential for seasoningFor the Topping4 slices Bacon provides a smoky taste; use sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley optional garnish Equipment Ovenbaking sheetskilletMixing bowlknifespoonfork Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).Carefully halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.Place the squash halves cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, until tender.In a skillet, heat over medium heat, add diced bacon, and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon and keep the rendered fat in the pan.Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic to the bacon fat, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and Pecorino Romano cheese until creamy and season with black pepper.Once the squash has cooled slightly, scrape the flesh into a large bowl.Add crispy bacon and sautéed garlic to the squash. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over and toss swiftly.Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or black pepper as needed.Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra Pecorino Romano cheese if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Combine the egg mixture quickly with warm squash to prevent scrambling. Feel free to customize the recipe with seasonal veggies or different proteins. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
