Transform humble spaghetti squash into a Tex Mex masterpiece with this recipe. Each squash boat is filled with a medley of savory beans, sautéed vegetables, and flavorful spices, then topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and indulgent taste. These Tex Mex Spaghetti Squash Boats are versatile, satisfying, and so easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to please. Serve it with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or a fresh squeeze of lime for an unforgettable dining experience.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, diced
- 14 oz red kidney beans or black beans (low sodium, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons diced canned chilis in adobo or jalapeños
- 1 cup low sodium tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups Colby Jack or Tex Mex cheese, shredded and divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oil for frying
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut spaghetti squash in half and scoop out seeds. Sprinkle flesh with salt and pepper. Place cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes or until tender but not soggy.
- While baking, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until golden.
- Stir in beans, chili powder, chilis, tomato sauce, and cilantro. Remove from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of cheese.
- Once baked squash cools slightly, fluff strands with a fork, keeping them in the shell.
- Fill each squash half with about 3/4–1 cup of the prepared mixture. Sprinkle each with 1/4 cup cheese. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and serve hot.
Prep Time: 12 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
Kcal: 291 per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash: A Flavorful, Healthy, and Versatile Dish
Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish that combines the bold, vibrant flavors of Tex Mex cuisine with the healthy, fiber-packed goodness of spaghetti squash. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free, low-carb alternative to classic Tex Mex dishes, this recipe delivers both on taste and nutritional benefits.
Whether you’re trying to reduce your carb intake, explore vegetarian options, or simply add more vegetables to your diet, this recipe is a must-try. Here’s everything you need to know about this dish, including its background, benefits, and why it stands out.
The Background of Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
Tex Mex cuisine is known for its robust flavors, colorful ingredients, and hearty combinations. This recipe takes inspiration from classic Tex Mex staples like tacos and burritos but swaps out tortillas and rice for roasted spaghetti squash, creating a lighter and naturally gluten-free alternative. The result is a creative twist that maintains the essence of Tex Mex while offering a healthier, nutrient-rich option.
Spaghetti squash, the star of this recipe, is a winter squash variety that becomes tender, stringy, and pasta-like when cooked. Its neutral flavor serves as a blank canvas for absorbing the vibrant spices and ingredients in this Tex Mex filling. The concept of stuffing spaghetti squash is not new, but combining it with Tex Mex flavors elevates it to an entirely new level of deliciousness.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Health Benefits
- Low in Calories and Carbs: Each serving of this recipe contains only 291 calories, making it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake. With spaghetti squash replacing high-carb options like tortillas, rice, or pasta, this dish is perfect for low-carb diets.
- High in Fiber: Spaghetti squash is packed with fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer. The addition of beans further boosts the fiber content, supporting heart health and stable blood sugar levels.
- Rich in Nutrients: Spaghetti squash is a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and beta-carotene. These nutrients contribute to immune health, better energy metabolism, and improved vision.
- Perfect for Various Diets
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and easily adaptable to vegan diets by substituting the cheese with a plant-based alternative. It’s also low in saturated fat, making it suitable for heart-healthy eating plans. - Customizable
The Tex Mex stuffed spaghetti squash recipe is highly versatile. You can easily modify the filling to include your favorite proteins, vegetables, or spices. Add chicken, ground turkey, or even tofu to suit your dietary preferences or try swapping the beans with lentils for a different twist. - Easy and Fun to Make
This recipe is straightforward, with minimal hands-on time. The process of roasting the squash, preparing the filling, and assembling the “boats” is enjoyable and perfect for involving the whole family. Plus, the end result is as visually stunning as it is delicious. - Crowd-Pleasing
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, these spaghetti squash boats are guaranteed to impress. Their vibrant colors, cheesy topping, and bold flavors make them a standout dish on any table.
Nutritional Breakdown
Each serving of Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash offers:
- Calories: 291
- Protein: 7g (boosted by the beans and cheese)
- Fiber: 12g (thanks to the squash and beans)
- Fat: 3g (low in saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 48g (from wholesome vegetables and beans)
The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy carbs ensures this meal provides sustained energy, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner.
Tips for Making the Best Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
- Choose the Right Squash
Look for medium-sized spaghetti squash with firm skin and no soft spots. This ensures even baking and prevents overcooking, which can make the squash watery. - Prep Ahead
To save time, roast the spaghetti squash a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the filling ahead of time, making assembly and baking quick and easy. - Don’t Overbake the Squash
Baking the squash until just tender keeps the strands firm and prevents a mushy texture. Aim for an al dente consistency for the best results. - Experiment with Toppings
While the recipe is delicious as is, adding toppings like diced avocado, pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt can elevate the dish further. A squeeze of lime juice before serving adds a refreshing citrusy kick.
Serving Suggestions
While these stuffed spaghetti squash boats are a complete meal on their own, they pair well with a few simple sides for a more elaborate spread. Consider serving them with:
- Cucumber or green salad: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Mexican rice or quinoa: For those who want additional carbs.
- Guacamole and tortilla chips: Complements the Tex Mex flavors beautifully.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
With a prep time of just 12 minutes and minimal active cooking, this recipe is a lifesaver on hectic evenings. It’s also a great way to use up pantry staples like beans, tomato sauce, and canned chilis, along with any vegetables you have on hand.
If you’re cooking for a family, the “boat” presentation is a fun way to serve the dish. Kids love scraping the spaghetti squash strands with a fork, and the cheesy topping makes it even more appealing.
Variations to Try
- Add Meat: Sauté ground turkey, beef, or diced chicken with the onions and garlic for a protein-packed filling.
- Go Vegan: Skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Spice It Up: Include jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Different Veggies: Mix in spinach, kale, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
Conclusion
Tex Mex Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is the perfect blend of healthy eating and comfort food. It allows you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Tex Mex cuisine while making mindful choices for your health. With its high nutritional value, easy preparation, and endless customization options, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to transform a humble squash into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!