Homemade Spaghetti Squash & Meatballs: A Cozy Delight
45
min
145
Calories
7g
Fats
10g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Bring a twist to your classic comfort food with this Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs recipe. A delicious blend of juicy meatballs and tender spaghetti squash, it's a cozy and satisfying dish perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Preparing the Meatball Mixture
To create the foundation for our tender meatballs, start by soaking two slices of bread in a quarter cup of milk until fully absorbed. This mixture is then left aside to integrate. Meanwhile, warm a bit of olive oil in a pan and cook pancetta until slightly crispy, about 5 minutes. Adding finely chopped onions next, cook until they turn soft and translucent. Introduce garlic to the mix, stirring for about a minute - remember, we don't want the garlic to burn. A quick stir of tomato paste for a rich depth of flavor, and then allow the mixture to cool off before proceeding.
Pro Tip: Ensure the bread is thoroughly soaked for tender meatballs.
Step 2: Forming & Cooking Meatballs
With the onion mixture cooled, mix it in a food processor alongside milk-softened bread, chicken breast, an egg, Parmesan, and fresh basil until just combined. Carefully roll the mix into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Avoid overworking the mix to keep the meatballs tender. These meatballs are then baked to perfection, showcasing a beautiful brown color while preserving their juiciness inside. It's a key step to achieving the kind of meatballs that are the talk of the dinner table.
Pro Tip: Don't overmix to avoid gummy meatballs.
Step 3: Preparing Spaghetti Squash
Cut your spaghetti squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and brush each half with olive oil, seasoning well with salt and pepper. Roast until the flesh is tender enough to be shredded into spaghetti-like strands with a fork. This method transforms the squash into a delightful bed for our meatballs, mirroring the comforting texture and appearance of traditional spaghetti but with a lighter, more wholesome twist.
Pro Tip: Roasting time may vary based on the size of the squash.
Step 4: Preparing the Tomato Sauce
For a homemade tomato sauce, roast tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Once roasted and slightly cooled, blend the tomatoes to a silky smoothness. This sauce is the essence of homemade luxury, vibrant and ready to embrace your meatballs and spaghetti squash with its rich flavor.
Pro Tip: Blending while warm will help get a smoother sauce.
