Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that will brighten your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash! This dish is a delightful twist on traditional tacos, all packed into a tender spaghetti squash. It’s not just tasty; it’s also easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying at home with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!

The best part? This Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is as versatile as it is delicious. You can whip it up in about 90 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings or meal prep for the week ahead. The combination of ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and spices creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves tacos! This dish makes it easier to serve a nutritious meal that kids will enjoy.
• Make-ahead convenience: Cook extra and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Let’s gather everything we need for our delicious Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash.

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 (4 pound) spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling

• ½ pound ground beef
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 1 small jalapeno (seeded and minced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (14 ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• ¼ cup minced cilantro
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• ½ cup sour cream

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Try different cheeses: If pepper jack isn’t your thing, feel free to use cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
• Make it spicy: Add some extra jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you love heat!

How to Make Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone liner or parchment paper. This will help catch any drips from the squash while roasting.

Step 2: Microwave the Squash

Place the whole spaghetti squash in the microwave for about 5 minutes. This softens it slightly and makes cutting easier. It’s an important step that helps prevent any kitchen mishaps!

Step 3: Cut and Prepare the Squash

After microwaving, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out those seeds and pulp from the middle—this is where all the magic happens when we stuff them later! Drizzle each half with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Roast the Squash

Roast the squash halves in your preheated oven for about an hour. You’ll know they’re done when the flesh scrapes easily with a fork into those beautiful spaghetti-like strands.

Step 5: Cook the Beef Mixture

While your squash is roasting, grab a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Once cooked through, transfer it to a plate and wipe out any excess grease.

Step 6: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil with your diced red bell pepper, onions, and jalapeños. Sauté until they soften—this brings out their sweetness! Then add in garlic along with spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cooking until thickened adds depth of flavor.

Step 7: Add Beans and Corn

Stir in black beans, corn kernels, and fresh cilantro into your vegetable mixture before returning the cooked ground beef to join in on the fun! Mix well so every ingredient gets coated.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Once your spaghetti squash is perfectly roasted, carefully scrape out its insides into your skillet filled with beef and veggies. Toss everything together until well combined—this is where all those flavors meld beautifully!

Step 9: Stuff Your Squash

Spoon that hearty filling back into each empty squash half. Don’t be shy—pack them generously!

Step 10: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded pepper jack cheese on top of each stuffed half before popping them back into the oven for about 10 minutes to melt everything together nicely.

Step 11: Serve Up!

Finally, scoop out generous portions from each squash half onto plates to serve warm alongside a dollop of sour cream if you desire. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Making this dish is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Squash: Look for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This indicates freshness and ensures your squash will roast beautifully.
• Microwave Before Cutting: Placing the whole squash in the microwave for a few minutes softens it, making it much easier to cut. This simple step prevents kitchen accidents and saves you time.
• Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting the squash until it’s fork-tender enhances its natural sweetness and creates a delightful texture that complements the savory filling.
• Season Generously: Use plenty of salt and pepper when seasoning the squash halves before roasting. This enhances the flavor of the entire dish, making each bite more delicious.
• Customize Your Filling: Feel free to swap out any vegetables or beans based on what you have on hand. This recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate personal preferences or dietary restrictions!

How to Serve Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Presentation can elevate your meal from simple to spectacular! Here are some creative ideas for serving your Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash.

Garnishes

• Chopped Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and balances the spices in the dish.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors, making each bite refreshing.
• Sliced Jalapenos: For those who love an extra kick, fresh jalapenos can spice things up beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cilantro Lime Rice: This fluffy rice dish is infused with lime zest and fresh cilantro, complementing the flavors of your stuffed squash perfectly.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips makes for an irresistible appetizer or side that pairs well with your main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of seasonal roasted veggies provides a colorful contrast on the plate while enhancing the overall nutrition of your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy an incredible dinner that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavor! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick, delicious meals during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed squash to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftover stuffed spaghetti squash in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffed squash completely before freezing.
• Wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the frozen squash in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place the stuffed squash halves in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious dish? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I customize the fillings in my Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables or proteins. Ground turkey or chicken works well as alternatives to beef.

What can I serve with Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some homemade guacamole. You could also serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch!

How do I prepare the spaghetti squash for stuffing?

Start by microwaving the whole squash briefly to soften it, then cut it open and scoop out the seeds. After roasting, fluff the flesh with a fork before mixing it with your filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Southwest Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash as I do! It’s not only packed with flavor but also offers a healthy twist on traditional tacos. Whether you’re serving family or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!