Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pan bake featuring tender spaghetti squash, savory kielbasa sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs)
1 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 lb kielbasa sausage, pre-cooked, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper (any color), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. Drizzle the cut sides with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands into a large bowl.
Step 3: While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa and set aside, leaving any drippings in the skillet.
Step 4: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), chicken or vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Return the cooked kielbasa to the skillet. Add the spaghetti squash strands to the mixture and gently stir to combine everything evenly.
Step 7: If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the bake. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (if your skillet is oven-safe) or transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 8: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bake is heated through. If desired, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes for a golden-brown top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if using, and serve hot.
Notes
For an even richer flavor, consider roasting the bell pepper and onion along with the spaghetti squash for the first 15-20 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This caramelizes them slightly and deepens their sweetness. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg