Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy, then these Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls are just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a favorite of mine because it brings together the comforting flavors of burritos in a fun, veggie-packed twist. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family gathering, these bowls are sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good burrito! These bowls are packed with flavor and can be tailored to suit picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the filling ahead of time, making dinner a breeze on busy days.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with veggies and plant-based protein, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how easy it is to create these delicious Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Squash

• 1 small Spaghetti Squash, about 30 ounces or 1.8 lb whole
• 1 to 2 teaspoons Olive Oil
• Salt and Black Pepper

For the Filling

• 1 small Zucchini, diced
• Half a Bell Pepper, diced
• 1/4 Red Onion, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground Cumin
• 3/4 cup cooked Black Beans, drained and rinsed if using canned
• 1/2 cup Corn Kernels, drained well if using canned
• 1/2 cup Salsa
• 2 ounces Cheese, shredded and divided

Variations

One of the best things about these burrito bowls is their flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like diced tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change the Cheese: Use your favorite type of cheese or even try dairy-free alternatives for a plant-based twist.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or spicy salsa to kick up the flavor!
• Swap the Beans: Instead of black beans, try pinto beans or chickpeas for a different texture.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature will help caramelize the squash beautifully. Carefully stab the squash several times with a sharp knife before microwaving it for about 4-5 minutes. This step makes it easier to cut in half. Once cool enough to handle, slice it open and scoop out the seeds.

Step 2: Season the Squash

Rub each half of the spaghetti squash with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. This will enhance its natural sweetness as it roasts. Place your squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast them until fork-tender—this usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on its size.

Step 3: Cook the Veggie Filling

While your squash is roasting away, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, zucchini, bell pepper, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sautéing these veggies helps bring out their natural flavors while softening them—this should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Remove your skillet from heat and stir in black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix everything together well! Taste it—don’t forget this step! Adjust seasoning if needed. Then fold in those lovely spaghetti strands from your roasted squash along with half of the cheese.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Load up those spaghetti squash halves with your vibrant veggie mixture! Top off each bowl with the remaining cheese for that ooey-gooey goodness we all love.

Step 6: Bake Until Melty

Bake those stuffed squash bowls uncovered at 350°F until warmed through—about 10 minutes should do it! To achieve that bubbly, golden top, broil them for an additional minute or two.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once they’re ready, serve them warm alongside your favorite burrito toppings like avocado slices or fresh cilantro. Enjoy every delicious bite!

These Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls are not just tasty—they’re also an adventure in cooking that brings joy to any dinner table! Enjoy creating this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls

Creating the perfect Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls is all about technique and flavor, so here are some handy tips to make your cooking experience even better!

• Choose a ripe squash: Look for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow color. This indicates ripeness, resulting in sweeter, more flavorful strands.
• Don’t skip the microwave: Microwaving the squash before cutting makes it easier to slice and scoop out the seeds. It saves you time and effort, ensuring you get nice, even halves.
• Customize your filling: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables or beans. This dish is versatile, so whether you love mushrooms, spinach, or chickpeas, they can easily be incorporated into the filling.
• Experiment with spices: While the recipe calls for cumin and oregano, don’t hesitate to try adding chili powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick. These spices can enhance the southwestern flavor profile beautifully.
• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the squash. This will save you time on busy weeknights!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls

Serving your Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the southwestern flavors perfectly.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado not only enhances the texture but also adds healthy fats that make each bite satisfying.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and gives a zesty finish that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features grilled corn mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and cotija cheese (or a non-dairy alternative). It’s refreshing and pairs wonderfully with the burrito bowls.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy guacamole served alongside crunchy tortilla chips offers a delightful contrast that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar provides a crisp balance to the hearty burrito bowls while adding extra nutrients.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: A side of quinoa or brown rice can round out the meal nicely. These grains absorb flavors well and can be seasoned simply with salt and lime for added taste.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls are bound to impress at any dinner table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store leftovers, and enjoy a delicious, healthy dinner throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed spaghetti squash to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cooked bowls cool completely.
• Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, labeling with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls that might help you out!

Can I customize my Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out veggies according to your taste. Adding ingredients like diced tomatoes or jalapeños can give your burrito bowls a unique twist.

How do I know when my spaghetti squash is done cooking?

Your spaghetti squash is fork-tender when it easily yields to a fork but still holds its shape. Cooking times may vary based on size, so keep an eye on it!

Are Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls healthy?

Yes! These bowls are packed with nutrients from the vegetables and beans. They provide a great balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats without any heavy ingredients.

Can I make Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls vegan?

Certainly! Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to create a delicious vegan version of this recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls as much as I do! They’re not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you’re enjoying them for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, these bowls bring warmth and flavor to your table. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try them!