How do I cook the spaghetti squash?

You can cook the spaghetti squash using a variety of methods including in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until the strands are tender and easily shreddable.

Does this work well for meal prep?

Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep. You can store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, and many find it tastes even better the next day.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with crumbled black bean burgers or a plant-based meat alternative, and use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based shredded cheese.

Cheeseburger Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Name: Cheeseburger Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large spaghetti squash (750g), cooked and shredded; 1 medium yellow onion (220g), diced; 8 oz. mushrooms, roughly chopped; 1 lb. 96/4 ground beef; 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained; 4 oz. reduced-fat cream cheese (112g), softened; 1 Tbsp steak seasoning; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (112g), divided

When the temperature drops and you find yourself craving the hearty, savory comfort of a classic cheeseburger, this nutrient-dense casserole offers the perfect solution. By replacing traditional burger buns with tender, roasted spaghetti squash strands, this dish transforms your favorite pub-style meal into a wholesome, low-carb experience that is perfect for any night of the week. It balances the satisfying texture of ground beef with the creamy richness of melted cheese and savory sautéed vegetables, creating a cozy centerpiece that your entire household will appreciate.

List of ingredients

1 large spaghetti squash (750g), cooked and shredded
1 medium yellow onion (220g), diced
8 oz. mushrooms, roughly chopped
1 lb. 96/4 ground beef
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
4 oz. reduced-fat cream cheese (112g), softened
1 Tbsp steak seasoning
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (112g), divided

step-by-step instructions

Step: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step: Spray a skillet with cooking spray and add the onions and mushrooms. Cook on medium heat until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and add veggies to a large bowl.
Step: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook on medium heat until brown, breaking into pieces as you go. Drain.
Step: To the large bowl with the veggies, add the cooked beef, tomatoes, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (56g), salt and steak seasoning. Mix well to combine.
Step: Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
Step: Bake for 20-25 minutes in the preheated oven or until the cheese is melty and bubbly.

Practical Cooking Advice

Importance of Draining Tomatoes

Diced canned tomatoes often contain a significant amount of liquid that can cause your casserole to become soupy. Always use a fine-mesh strainer or colander to drain the excess juices before mixing the tomatoes into your beef and squash base, as this ensures the squash strands hold their shape rather than swimming in liquid.

Managing Squash Moisture

Spaghetti squash releases moisture during the baking process, even after it is cooked. After shredding your squash, you can gently pat the strands dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel if you notice they seem particularly wet, which will lead to a much denser and more flavorful casserole.

Softening Cream Cheese Quickly

Using cold cream cheese will make it nearly impossible to incorporate into the beef mixture smoothly. To soften it quickly, place the portion you need on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds, or simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start your meal preparation.

Effective Substitutions

Protein Alternatives

While lean ground beef is traditional for a cheeseburger profile, you can easily substitute it with lean ground turkey or ground chicken. If you prefer a plant-based version, crumbled meatless grounds or firm, seasoned lentils can be used to achieve a similar texture while keeping the dish hearty and filling.

Cheese Variations

Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can experiment with flavor profiles by using sharp white cheddar, Colby jack, or even a smoked gouda for an extra depth of flavor. If you are watching your saturated fat intake, feel free to use a light shredded cheese variety, which melts nearly as well as the full-fat versions.

Vegetable Additions

You can enhance the nutritional density of this casserole by folding in finely chopped baby spinach or bell peppers. If adding extra vegetables, make sure to sauté them alongside the onions and mushrooms to ensure they are fully cooked and excess water is removed before adding them to the final mixture.

Serving Ideas

Creating a Topping Bar

Just like a traditional burger, you can customize your serving plate with fresh toppings once the casserole is out of the oven. Consider offering a side of sliced pickles, diced red onion, fresh cherry tomatoes, or a drizzle of sugar-free ketchup and yellow mustard to enhance the classic flavor profile.

Side Dish Pairings

This dish is quite filling on its own, so it pairs best with lighter sides to round out the meal. A crisp, cool side salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, creamy casserole, or you could serve it with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.

Storage and Reheating

Proper Refrigeration

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container as soon as the casserole has cooled to room temperature. It will remain fresh and safe to eat in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an excellent candidate for midweek lunch planning.

Reviving the Texture

When reheating individual portions, the microwave works well if you cover the bowl to retain steam. For a better texture that mimics the fresh-from-the-oven state, reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees F until the dish is heated through and the cheese is soft once again.

Make-Ahead Advice

Staging the Preparation

You can save significant time on busy evenings by cooking and shredding your spaghetti squash up to two days in advance. Keep the shredded squash in a sealed container in the fridge, then simply combine it with the freshly browned beef and vegetables when you are ready to assemble and bake.

Common Questions Answered

Can I assemble this completely ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge, simply adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the total baking time to ensure it is heated through.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind that the texture of spaghetti squash can change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze it in an airtight container for up to one month and allow it to thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

How can I achieve a firmer casserole?

The key to a firm casserole is ensuring all components are as dry as possible before mixing. Ensure your squash, sautéed vegetables, and canned tomatoes are well-drained, and avoid adding extra liquids like broths or sauces that are not called for in the recipe.

What if my squash is too watery?

If you find that your spaghetti squash is releasing too much water despite your best efforts, you can mix in a tablespoon of almond flour or crushed crackers into the filling. This helps absorb the excess moisture during the baking process and provides a slightly heartier mouthfeel to the final dish.