Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a delightful way to enjoy a classic burrito experience while keeping carbs low. These tasty boats are perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or meal prep. The combination of roasted spaghetti squash and a savory beef filling makes them satisfying and nutritious. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the toppings to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the flavors of a burrito without the high-carb tortillas.
• Flavor-Packed Filling: The blend of spices and seasoned beef brings robust flavor to every bite.
• Easy to Customize: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, more cheese, or fresh salsa for a personal touch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat.
• Kid-Friendly Option: A fun way to get kids involved in cooking while eating their veggies!

Tools and Preparation

To make Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Large skillet
• Fork
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for roasting spaghetti squash evenly.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and easy cutting through the tough spaghetti squash skin.
• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the filling quickly and efficiently over medium heat.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti 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 the Extras

• 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 cheese
• 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp. freshly chopped cilantro (optional)

How to Make Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Drizzle the cut sides of each spaghetti squash with olive oil, then season with kosher salt, chili powder, and cumin. Place the squash cut side down on a large baking sheet. Roast until tender, about 30 to 35 minutes. Once done, let them cool slightly before using a fork to break up the strands.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft—about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink—around 6 minutes—and drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add taco seasoning to the beef mixture; season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Stir in black beans, cherry tomatoes, and corn until well combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Squash

Carefully fill each roasted spaghetti squash half with the beef mixture. Top generously with both Monterey jack and cheddar cheese. Return them to the oven for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats!

How to Serve Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a delicious and healthy option for any meal. They can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.

For a Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the boats straight from the oven on individual plates for a comforting meal.
• Pair with a side of tortilla chips for extra crunch.

As a Party Appetizer

• Cut the squash boats into smaller portions for bite-sized servings.
• Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream or guacamole, for guests to customize their bites.

With Fresh Salads

• Serve alongside a refreshing green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette.
• Incorporate avocado slices or diced bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.

For Meal Prepping

• Prepare several squash boats at once and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat, making for quick lunches or dinners.

How to Perfect Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Creating the perfect Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats is easy with these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe spaghetti squash: Look for squashes that feel heavy for their size with a firm skin. This ensures better texture and taste.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Allow the squash to roast until it’s tender. This enhances flavor and makes it easier to shred into strands.
• Season well: Don’t skimp on spices! A good seasoning mix adds depth to your filling and elevates the overall dish.
• Mix up your toppings: Experiment with different cheeses or fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for extra flavor.
• Customize your filling: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
• Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch, but consider adding lime wedges too for an extra zing!

Best Side Dishes for Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

Pairing your Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal experience.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy and tangy corn salad that complements the flavors of the burrito boats perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and pairs well with any Mexican-inspired dish. Serve with tortilla chips!
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime juice creates a refreshing balance to the hearty squash boats.
4. Black Bean Salsa: A zesty mix of black beans, tomatoes, and onions provides a fresh contrast to the rich filling of the boats.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy make a nutritious side that pairs well with any main dish.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette keeps your meal balanced and fresh.
7. Chili Lime Carrots: Roasted carrots tossed in chili powder and lime juice offer a sweet yet spicy side that complements the burritos nicely.
8. Avocado Tomato Salad: A simple salad made of diced avocados, tomatoes, and red onion drizzled with olive oil enhances freshness on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Roasting Step: Not roasting the spaghetti squash adequately can result in a hard texture. Make sure to roast until tender for the best results.
• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking ground beef too long can make it tough. Aim for just until it’s no longer pink for a juicy filling.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with spices and adjust according to taste.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Choosing subpar ingredients can diminish the overall taste. Opt for fresh vegetables and quality cheese for a better outcome.
• Not Allowing Squash to Cool: Rushing into mixing or stuffing while the squash is hot can lead to burns or uneven filling distribution. Let it cool before handling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the burrito boats to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats:

What are Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats?

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are a low-carb twist on traditional burritos, using spaghetti squash as a base filled with seasoned beef and veggies.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute that will still deliver great flavor while being leaner.

How do I customize my Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats?

Feel free to add other toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or your favorite salsa for added flavor and texture.

Are Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten products.

Can these be made vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of beans and additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Final Thoughts

Burrito Spaghetti Squash Boats are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different proteins or toppings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions!