Easy Crockpot Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce (Keto, Low-Carb & One-Pot!)

Easy Crockpot Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce (Keto, Low-Carb & One-Pot!)

Enjoy a comforting and hearty meal with minimal effort using this Crockpot Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce recipe! Tender spaghetti squash is cooked right in the slow cooker alongside a savory, well-seasoned ground meat sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying low-carb “pasta” dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 2-3 hours (on high) or 4-6 hours (on low)

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash (approx. 2-3 lbs)
• 2 pounds ground meat (e.g., ground turkey, beef, or Italian sausage)
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained (check for no added sugar)
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt (or regular salt), or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup of your favorite keto-friendly veggies, chopped (e.g., sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, chopped zucchini, or spinach)
• Optional garnishes: Fresh chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

Equipment:

• Large skillet (for browning meat)
• Large crockpot (slow cooker, 6-quart or larger recommended)
• Large spoon or spatula
• Fork (for shredding squash)

Instructions:

1. Brown Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground meat. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned.
2. Drain Grease: Once browned, drain any excess grease from the meat.
3. Add Meat & Seasonings to Crockpot: Transfer the cooked and drained ground meat to the slow cooker. Add the drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the chopped keto-friendly veggies. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Prepare Spaghetti Squash: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half crosswise (through the “equator” rather than stem-to-end). Scoop out and discard the seeds and stringy bits from both halves.
5. Cook in Crockpot: Place the spaghetti squash halves into the slow cooker, cut-side down, on top of the meat sauce mixture.
6. Slow Cook:
   • Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours, or until the spaghetti squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
   • OR cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, or until the spaghetti squash is tender.
   • Note: Cooking times can vary based on squash size and crockpot model.
7. Shred & Serve: Carefully remove the spaghetti squash halves from the slow cooker (they will be hot!). Using a fork, gently scrape the cooked strands of spaghetti squash into the meat sauce mixture in the crockpot. Stir to combine the squash strands with the sauce.
8. Enjoy! Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Squash Size: A larger spaghetti squash will need longer cooking time. Ensure it fits comfortably in your crockpot.
• Don’t Overcook Squash: Cook until tender, but not mushy, for the best “noodle” texture.
• Meat Options: Ground beef, pork, or a mix also work wonderfully. If using Italian sausage, you might reduce the Italian seasoning slightly based on its pre-seasoning.
• Customization: Add a small amount of low-carb marinara sauce to the mix for extra tomato flavor. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Checking Labels: Always check labels on diced tomatoes and any pre-mixed seasonings to ensure no added sugars or starches for strict keto compliance.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification

This Crockpot Spaghetti Squash with Meat Sauce recipe is an excellent, comforting, and highly compliant option for your app!

• High Protein: Yes, this recipe is very high in protein due to the generous amount of ground meat.
• Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is low-carb. Spaghetti squash is a fantastic low-carb noodle alternative, and all other ingredients are naturally low in carbohydrates.
• Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. All listed ingredients are suitable for a ketogenic diet.
  • Spaghetti Squash, Ground Meat, Diced Tomatoes, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Keto-Friendly Veggies: All are core keto ingredients.
  • Diced Tomatoes & Seasonings: Remind users to check labels for hidden sugars or starches.
• Gluten-Free: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.