Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a delightful, low-carb alternative to traditional burritos. These boats combine the satisfying flavors of taco filling with the unique texture of spaghetti squash. Perfect for dinner or lunch, this dish is not only healthy but also customizable to suit various tastes. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the flavors of a burrito without the carbs, making it great for those on a low-carb diet.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein, these boats are as nutritious as they are tasty.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make several batches ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Fork
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly, ensuring a tender texture.
• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef and mixing in all the flavorful ingredients.
• Fork: Useful for shredding the spaghetti squash into strands effortlessly.

Ingredients

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For the Squash

• 2 medium spaghetti squash, halved, seeds removed
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. cumin

For the Filling

• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 tbsp. taco seasoning mix
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Additional Ingredients

• 1 (15-oz.) can black beans
• 1 1/2 c. chopped cherry tomatoes
• 1 c. corn, canned and drained or frozen
• 1 c. shredded Monterey jack
• 1/2 c. shredded cheddar

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp. freshly chopped cilantro (optional)

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How to Make Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle cut sides of each spaghetti squash with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt, chili powder, and cumin.

Step 2: Roast the Squash

Place the squash cut side down on a large baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven until tender, about 30 to 35 minutes. Once done, let them cool slightly before using a fork to break up the strands inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, around 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant for about 1 minute more.

Step 4: Cook Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet; use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks until no longer pink, approximately 6 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 5: Mix in Seasoning

Stir in taco seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Then add black beans, cherry tomatoes, and corn; mix well until everything is combined.

Step 6: Fill the Squash Boats

Fill each roasted spaghetti squash half with the beef mixture evenly. Top generously with shredded Monterey jack and cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Return filled squash boats back to the oven for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish each boat with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats!

How to Serve Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for meal prep ideas, these boats can be customized to fit any occasion.

Family Style

• Serve the spaghetti squash boats directly on a platter for everyone to enjoy. This communal approach encourages sharing and conversation.

Taco Bar

• Create a taco bar with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and jalapeños. Guests can personalize their spaghetti squash boats with their favorite garnishes.

Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings in meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. These make great grab-and-go options that are healthy and satisfying.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each boat with freshly chopped cilantro or avocado for an extra burst of flavor. This simple addition elevates the dish and adds freshness.

Pair with a Salad

• Serve alongside a refreshing side salad. A crisp green salad complements the hearty nature of the burrito-filled squash and adds balance to the meal.

How to Perfect Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

To ensure your Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are absolutely delicious, here are some tips that will help you achieve perfection.

• Choose ripe squash: Look for firm, unblemished spaghetti squash for the best texture and taste.
• Roast until tender: Make sure to roast the spaghetti squash long enough so it’s tender but not mushy, allowing for perfect strand separation.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning when preparing the filling. The spices enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Customize your fillings: Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives based on your dietary preferences.
• Melt cheese perfectly: Return the filled squashes to the oven just long enough to melt the cheese without overcooking.
• Garnish creatively: Experiment with different toppings like salsa, Greek yogurt, or hot sauce to add variety.

Best Side Dishes for Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad made with lime juice, cotija cheese, and chili powder that brings vibrant flavors.
2. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips makes for a great appetizer ahead of your main dish.
3. Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad mixed with bell peppers and lime is a nutritious side that echoes the boat’s flavors.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime offers a light, flavorful contrast to the hearty squash boats.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned simply with olive oil and herbs provide color and nutrition alongside your meal.
6. Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette adds freshness and balance to your dinner table.
7. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice gives an extra kick when served on the side.
8. Spicy Zucchini Fries: Baked zucchini fries seasoned with spices offer a crunchy side that pairs well with any Tex-Mex dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the squash: Cooking spaghetti squash for too long can make it mushy. Roast until just tender, about 30 to 35 minutes, and let it cool slightly before shredding.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping spices or not seasoning the filling adequately can lead to a bland dish. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and taco seasoning for flavor enhancement.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold ingredients directly into the warm squash can affect texture and temperature. Warm up canned beans and corn before mixing them in for better results.
• Filling the squash too much: Overstuffing can cause the filling to spill over during cooking. Fill gently, allowing room for cheese and toppings without overflowing.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs like cilantro can diminish the dish’s freshness. Always add garnishes right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped boats in a freezer-safe container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate; heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats?

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a low-carb, gluten-free dish made by roasting spaghetti squash halves filled with seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cheese.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done roasting?

Your spaghetti squash is done when it is tender enough that you can easily shred it with a fork, typically around 30 to 35 minutes at 400°F.

Can I customize the filling for Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats?

Yes! You can customize the filling by using different proteins like turkey or chicken or adding other vegetables based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats vegetarian, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or additional beans such as lentils or chickpeas.

Final Thoughts

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are not only delicious but also versatile. They allow you to enjoy all the flavors of burritos while keeping carbs in check. Feel free to customize the fillings and toppings according to your taste. Try this recipe today and delight your family with a healthy twist on a classic favorite!

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Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a deliciously healthy twist on traditional burritos, offering all the savory flavors you love in a low-carb format. This dish features roasted spaghetti squash filled with seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and cheese—making it a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, these boats are perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings. With vibrant colors and rich flavors, they are sure to impress your family and friends while keeping your meals light and nutritious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 (15-oz) can black beans
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup corn
• Shredded Monterey jack and cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the spaghetti squash, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, chili powder, and cumin.
2. Roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-35 minutes until tender.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add ground beef; cook until browned.
4. Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and corn; mix thoroughly.
5. Fill roasted squash with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with cilantro if desired before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 boat (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Feel free to replace ground beef with turkey or plant-based proteins for a lighter option. Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the filling for extra veggies.