Tomato Basil Spaghetti Squash Bake
Hello, my foodie friends!
If you love comfort food but want something a little lighter, my Tomato Basil Spaghetti Squash Bake is the perfect dish! It has all the flavors of a classic Italian pasta bake—juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and gooey cheese—but instead of pasta, we’re using roasted spaghetti squash. The result? A dish that’s cozy, satisfying, and packed with flavor, yet naturally low in carbs and gluten-free.
This recipe was inspired by my love for Italian flavors and the versatility of spaghetti squash. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional baked pasta, giving you that same cheesy, saucy goodness without feeling too heavy. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meatless meal or a flavorful side dish, this bake is a total winner, so lets get cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light yet comforting – All the satisfaction of a baked pasta dish without the extra carbs.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward process.
Packed with flavor – Garlic, basil, olive oil, and tomatoes create the perfect balance.
Customizable – Add protein like grilled chicken or sausage for an extra hearty meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium spaghetti squash, roasted and shredded
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz.) tomatoes (sliced)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp. balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
How to Make Tomato Basil Spaghetti Squash Bake
Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and brush the inside with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, until tender. Once cooled slightly, use a fork to shred the squash into spaghetti-like strands.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Basil Mixture
Place a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the sliced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the fresh basil and remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted spaghetti squash with the tomato mixture. Stir until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet, tangy contrast. Garnish with extra fresh basil, and serve warm!
Tomato Basil Spaghetti Squash Bake
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Casserole Dish
Ingredients
- 1 Spaghetti Squash
- 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
- 2 Tsp. Minced Garlic
- 1/4 Cup Basil Leaves Chopped
- 1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
- 2 Tomatoes Sliced
- 1/2 Cup Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 Tsp Creole Seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Slice the squash in half and place skin side up on the a baking sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- When the squash is cool enough to touch, use a fork to scrape out all the noodles.
- To a mixing bowl, add the cooked squash noodles, olive oil, garlic, basil, parmesan cheese and creole seasoning.
- Toss to coat and spread the mixture into the casserole dish.
- Layer tomato slices over the top.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella & parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is starting to brown.
- Drizzle a little balsamic vinegar on top and chopped basil.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
Want more protein? Add grilled chicken, sausage, or ground turkey.
Dairy-free? Use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Extra cheesy? Mix some ricotta into the squash before baking for added creaminess.
Make it ahead! Roast the spaghetti squash in advance and store in the fridge for easy meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Basil Spaghetti Squash Bake is the perfect blend of light and comforting. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a flavorful side, it’s guaranteed to impress. So grab your fork, dig in, and enjoy a healthier take on an Italian classic!
Let me know in the comments—have you ever tried baking spaghetti squash? What’s your favorite way to serve it?
What is Spaghetti Squash? Spaghetti Squash
Don’t forget to check out my last post if you missed it: Spicy Beef Ramen